2001 International Mathematical Olympiad
Recorded on July 2 for showing on July 13

Thank you all very much, and welcome to Washington DC, the 2001 International Mathematical Olympiad. I am proud that the United States is once again hosting this event. More than 450 youngsters from 83 countries, representing 5 continents, are attending this event. You represent the most talented high-school-age mathematicians in the world, and I commend you for your academic excellence and intellectual achievements.

Arriving at this day requires impressive dedication and hard work. I hope it will be an unforgettable experience for you. The International Mathematical Olympiad accomplishes one very important thing — it enhances public understanding of, and appreciation for, mathematics. Whether it's algebra, geometry, or trigonometry, your skills will follow you for a lifetime. Mathematics teaches not just numbers and formulas, but reasoning and logic. Mathematics skills will lead many of you to distinguished careers in academics, the world of finance, careers in engineering, computer science, medicine, and much else.

I am sure that for many of you all that seems a long way off. So for now, let me just congratulate you on what you've achieved. I wish you good success, and I hope you have a good time during your stay here in Washington.