Statement to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Senator Boxer, I want to thank the Committee for the rapid consideration you are giving my nomination in view of the dire events earlier this month. I am honored by the confidence the President and the Secretary have expressed in me and by the trust the Senate has shown previously by confirming me as Ambassador to Malaysia and as Ambassador for Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation.

I had a chance Sunday a week ago at a special memorial mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine to reflect on September 11th’s impact on our country, the congregation, and my family. And I felt intensely the enormity of the challenge ahead, and how important it is that we succeed in the fight against terrorism and the effort to deny terrorists access to missiles and weapons of mass destruction. Ditto for the countries which back terrorists.

Mr. Chairman, there exists in the Nonproliferation Bureau a talented, focused group of women and men who have devoted their lives to combat proliferation. As we reflect on the horror of September 11, our mission is hauntingly clear. We must act swiftly against all those who would threaten America’s security and the security and stability of our friends and allies worldwide. We must prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction through intense diplomatic efforts, enforcement of U.S. laws, and strengthened international norms. We must work ever more intensely with other countries to help them, indeed ensure, they meet their obligations and responsibilities more completely, more quickly and more effectively.

I know the importance of legislative support for our efforts. If confirmed, I commit to working closely with the members of this Committee and your colleagues on both sides of the Capitol to protect and advance U.S. security interests.

Thank you. I look forward to your questions.