International Leadership
The United States must take a global approach to world leadership, particularly on issues such as global poverty. Our country is so large and so prosperous that every nation in the world is touched by us, whether it's through McDonald's, Microsoft, or monetary policy. Like it or not, we are the most powerful nation in the world and we must provide positive leadership and promote American values.
I support a comprehensive foreign policy strategy that will counter the philosophy of religious extremism and anti-American venom that we are currently battling. This means policies that understand and respect other nations and encourages self-determination, democracy, human rights, economic development, and much greater access to education, health care, and jobs. This also means an increased focus on promoting the American values of democracy and a capitalist economy that also respects people and culture. We must get tough on the nations who have been diplomatic allies of America but supported efforts to teach and spread hatred for America throughout the Muslim world, and we cannot tolerate any country that harbors or encourages terrorism.
International leadership is not easy, but we must not step back from this responsibility. I believe this responsibility is also an opportunity. We are the world's only superpower, and we can have enormous impact on the quality of life for millions of people. We must continue to engage in trade negotiations that will improve our economy and the economies - and quality of life - for the people of the countries with whom we trade. We must continue to support policies for positive economic growth through the International Monetary Fund and World Bank to assist developing countries. At the same time, we must meet our obligations to these international institutions and assist the developing countries as they build their economic and social services infrastructure.
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More on International Leadership
Washington D.C. – House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith made the following statement in response to the extension of negotiations with Iran:
“Today, I accepted Leader Pelosi’s appointment to be on the Select Committee on Benghazi. The loss of four brave Americans was tragic, and we must do everything possible to prevent such attacks from happening again. On that point, there is no debate. What is not clear is why this committee needs to be formed in the first place. What are Republicans trying to achieve?
Fragile Progress in the Congo
Written By Rep. Adam Smith.
Central Africa is on fire. In recent weeks, ethnic and political conflicts in South Sudan and the Central African Republic have left as many as 2,000 dead and driven hundreds of thousands from their homes.
“Today, the world lost one of its most cherished leaders. While Nelson Mandela, the man, is now gone, his legacy will endure. He will forever be a source of inspiration for those who struggle against racial oppression and injustice around the world. He was a pioneer for freedom and equality and had the bravery to love his opponents as much as his supporters.
House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith made the following statement after a short-term deal to halt Iran nuclear ambitions was struck:
“The deal announced today is a positive step in the right direction and I applaud the Administration for making progress on this important national security issue. It is vital that we prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon in a peaceful way.