Today, I participated in an English language practice group at the American Corner at Amideast in Tunis.  Approximately 40 young Tunisians attended the session.  I was deeply impressed with their command of English (the third language for most of them).  They clearly understood what I had to say, but were also skilled at offering their own ideas and posing questions.

Most impressive of all, however, was their understanding of the world and their interest in international relations.  All of the students were fascinated by our new President, Barack Obama.  They believe, as many Americans do, that he brings hope for change and improvement in the world.  But the students asked tough questions, too.  Several focused on the Middle East Peace Process and Israeli actions in the Gaza Strip at the end of 2008.  I explained the commitment of the President Obama and Secretary Clinton to seek peace in the region, and to establish a state of Palestine that would exist in peace and security next to Israel.  While the students welcome the new Administration’s actions so far, they have doubts and are eager to see progress on the ground.

One of my favorite questions came from the youngest student in the audience, a girl who was perhaps 12.  She asked whether the United States would continue to explore space.  I answered yes, and told her about the launch just last week of the Kepler space probe.  The Kepler probe will look for earth-like planets around other stars.  I spoke, too, of my own interest in space exploration and why it is important for all of us.  Her question was a reminder of the great interest around the world in US activities in space, and, indeed, in all that we do to advance science and technology.  Our desire to explore the unknown is a powerful expression of our common humanity.