Remarks at the "Water is Life" Reception

Clean water truly is essential to sustainable development, poverty reduction, and public health. International water issues have long been an important component of our development assistance efforts, including through the Presidential Water for the Poor Initiative, launched in 2002. The passage of the Senator Paul Simon Water for the Poor Act in 2005 was a milestone, however. That landmark legislation continues to strengthen and focus work on the international water policy of the United States.

• The State Department, working closely with USAID and other agencies, has developed an overall strategic framework for how the United States will address water issues in developing countries.

• Our support for water-related activities across the globe has increased to more than $850 million.

• In 2006, spending specifically for water supply, sanitation, and wastewater management by USAID rose to more than $280 million worldwide.

• And in Africa, where the needs are particularly acute, U.S. support for water supply and sanitation activities increased by 25% over 2005 levels.

More importantly, we are achieving real results on the ground. Each year, nearly 10 million people gain improved access to safe water from activities we help support.

As this audience knows, partnerships -- with other countries and between the public and private sectors -- are instrumental in achieving our common goal of bringing clean, safe water to those who currently lack access to it. For example, we are proud to work with CARE and Population Services International in Kenya; with the National Water & Sewerage Corporation in Uganda; with Coca Cola in Africa and elsewhere; and with Japan in India, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

These are just the first steps in a long-term process to strengthen our efforts on water. Over the past few months, experts at the State Department and USAID have been working to assess individual country needs on water and sanitation. Based on these assessments, we are now engaged in discussions about the role water can play in achieving our foreign assistance goals in every country with significant water and sanitation deficits. That step forward was set in motion by the Water for the Poor Act.

We are making progress. And at the same time, we recognize that there is far more to be accomplished.

Gathered here today are so many committed individuals, all working together to improve water resources management and get safe drinking water and basic sanitation to millions around the world. Thanks to each and every one of you. Tonight, we honor Senator Frist and Congressman Blumenauer for their invaluable contributions, and their great dedication. Let us celebrate those who make a positive and significant difference, and rededicate ourselves to helping bring to all the blessing of clean, safe water. Thank you.