Sen. Kerry to Advance Legacy of International Cooperation at State Dept., Says UN Foundation President

Senator Timothy E. Wirth, president of the United Nations Foundation, congratulated President Barak Obama today on the nomination of Senator John Kerry as the next Secretary of State. In a statement, Wirth said:

“Having worked closely with Senator Kerry for many years, I am wholly confident that he will carry forward a proud legacy at the Department of State — one that has placed a premium on international cooperation and ensuring American engagement and leadership abroad.

“I have been witness to John’s lifelong service and the results he has created for the American people. He is a tested envoy who has shown he can deliver the best outcomes in high-level negotiations. Always putting principles ahead of partisanship, he has been a consistent, steadfast leader in bipartisan efforts to strengthen national security and fight terrorism; promote U.S. interests in global health; champion a comprehensive approach to climate and energy issues; and further foreign policy that embraces strong cooperation with international organizations like the United Nations.

“Secretary Clinton no doubt leaves large shoes to fill. She has bolstered our nation’s reputation abroad with her trademark diplomacy, including a perhaps unparalleled commitment to women and girls in developing nations. Yet I’m confident that Senator Kerry will rise to the occasion—as he has always, be it in our armed services or in the Senate¬—continuing a legacy of uplifting the most vulnerable and achieving new milestones in areas such as climate change.

“I applaud President Obama on his nomination and encourage the Senate to unanimously confirm Senator Kerry as our next Secretary of State.”

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About The United Nations Foundation
The United Nations Foundation builds public-private partnerships to address the world’s most pressing problems, and broadens support for the United Nations through advocacy and public outreach. Through innovative campaigns and initiatives, the Foundation connects people, ideas, and resources to help the UN solve global problems. The Foundation was created in 1998 as a U.S. public charity by entrepreneur and philanthropist Ted Turner and now is supported by global corporations, foundations, governments, and individuals. For more information, visit www.unfoundation.org.

Media Contact:  Rebecca Einhorn, (202) 862-6310