Foreign Affairs

Thank you, Carl – not only for that warm introduction but for three decades of work to advance the cause of freedom around the world. 

Thank you, Rep. [Gregory] Meeks, not only for your introduction but for your leadership on the issue of drawing the United States and Africa closer.   One message from this extraordinary gathering of the last few days is that, although Africa faces many challenges, it is a continent of opportunity.

Since helping to broker the agreement that led to South Sudan’s independence in 2011, the United States has been committed to helping the world’s newest state build democratic institutions and pursue peaceful economic development.

In announcing expanded sanctions today against Russian President Vladimir Putin and his chief backers - Russia's largest banks, a major defense contractor, and the country's oil industry - the Administration is sending a clear message that Russia will continue to face consequences unless it ceases its interference in Ukraine's sovereign affairs and works with the international community to promote an end to the bloodshed

It is a serious time in which we meet. It is a time when history will record that we had the resolve to prevail, or we did not. 

As the world marks the centennial of the outbreak of the First World War today, I join in remembering the service and sacrifices of so many American military personnel who answered the call to fight on distant shores in defense of democracy and values we hold dear.  

I congratulate Rep. Brad Schneider of Illinois for his hard work bringing the Hezbollah International Financing Prevention Act to the Floor today, and I was pleased to vote for its passage.

Thank you, members of the Commission, for this opportunity to make a statement.  I want to thank the Commission for conducting this critical hearing as well as to extend my gratitude to the three witnesses, each of whom serves a critical function in advancing the OSCE’s mission of protecting freedom and democracy.