Subtitles section Play video
-
SECRETARY CLINTON: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It's very good to be back and to have this
-
opportunity to join with Senator Warren and Senator McCain in introducing President Obama's
-
nominee to be the next Secretary of State. I was very honored when John asked me to take
-
part in this because John is the right choice to carry forward the Obama Administration's
-
foreign policy, and I urge his speedy confirmation. As we've heard from both the Chairman and
-
the Ranking Member and just now Senator Warren, he will bring a record of leadership and service
-
that is exemplary. He has a view of the world that he has acted on, first as that young
-
returning veteran from Vietnam who appeared before this committee, through the time that
-
he served with such distinction as its chairman. He's been a valued partner to this Administration
-
and to me personally. He has fought for our diplomats and development experts. He understands
-
the value of investing in America's global leadership. And as we work to implement the
-
Accountability Review Board's recommendations, he is committed to doing whatever it takes
-
to prevent another attack and protect our people and posts around the world.
-
Now, working together, we've achieved a great deal. But the State Department and USAID have
-
a lot of unfinished business, from Afghanistan to nonproliferation to climate change to so
-
much. We need to sustain our renewed engagement in the Asia Pacific, continue ramping up economics
-
as a tool for advancing American interests and jobs, pressing forward with unleashing
-
the potential of the world's women and girls, keep championing the kind of smart power that
-
looks to innovation and partnerships with governments and people alike to promote peace
-
and stability.
-
John has built strong relationships with leaders in governments here and around the world,
-
and he has experience in representing our country in fragile and unpredictable circumstances.
-
He was in Pakistan and Afghanistan a few years ago, and we were consulting over the phone.
-
He played an instrumental role in working with President Karzai at that time to accept
-
the results of the election and to move forward. I had to call Harry Reid and ask Harry not
-
to schedule any votes so that John could continue to stay there to see that mission through.
-
But that's what he does. He is a determined and effective representative of the United
-
States, has been as a senator, will be as Secretary.
-
Let me close by saying that leading our diplomats and development experts is a great honor.
-
And every day, as I testified yesterday, I've seen firsthand their skill, their bravery,
-
their unwavering commitment to our country. I've been proud to call them colleagues and
-
to serve as Secretary of State. And I'm very pleased that John will be given the chance,
-
subject to confirmation, to continue the work of a lifetime on behalf of our country.
-
Thank you.
