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Deputy Secretary Steinberg speaking at Copenhagen University. (Photo: Pamela Juhl)

Deputy Secretary of State, James Steinberg Speaks at Copenhagen University

Deputy Secretary of State, James B. Steinberg, spoke before a capacity audience of 450 politicians, opinion-makers, diplomats, academics and students at Copenhagen University yesterday (5/26).   Drawing on President Obama’s recent speech at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the Deputy Secretary underscored the President’s vision of strengthening global partnerships and advancing common interests in order to respond effectively to the challenges of our time.  Deputy Secretary Steinberg repeatedly stressed the importance for the U.S. of its close partners, such as Denmark. He applauded the Copenhagen University for taking on the challenges of internationalization head on and for its role as a thought leader among universities.

Fielding questions from the floor, Deputy Secretary Steinberg touched on issues from the Copenhagen Accord, the U.S. relationship with Russia, and Pakistan. 
Turning his attention to the subject of Iranian nuclear proliferation, the Deputy Secretary of State said that “Tehran has systematically failed to meet its obligations to the international community, “and added that the US and Europe have come to the conclusion that sanctions should be imposed. In addition, Secretary Steinberg touched on issues pertaining to the Middle East peace process, Burma and North Korea before delivering a closing analysis of the challenges presented by China and Afghanistan.

Focusing on the need for greater transparency in Beijing, the Secretary accentuated the Obama Administration’s advocacy of political reform “because it’s the right thing to do and what we believe in.” 
Finally, Secretary of State Steinberg countered criticisms of perceived US willingness to work with “criminals” in Afghanistan, concluding:  “Even in fully functioning democracies people get elected who have a checkered past.  The fact of the matter is that Afghanistan is a work in progress and it is not going to get any better if we walk away.”

efore taking the stage, Deputy Secretary Steinberg was welcomed by University of Copenhagen Rector, Ralf Hemmingsen and introduced by Ambassador Fulton who emphasized his long and distinguished career in academia and in public service under the current administration as well as under the Clinton administration. For more information on Deputy Secretary Steinberg, please see his official biography.

The Secretary’s two hour presentation received a standing ovation from the assembled audience.