We know that there are 130 million children around the world that should be in school but are not, and that about 60 percent of these children are girls. We really need to do more. When developing country economies become more open and market-oriented, demand for American goods and services increases. For example, as a result of trade liberalization, American exports to Central America have nearly doubled since 1992. Let me end on the same note.
Foreign assistance is an essential tool of American foreign policy.
The economic health and prosperity of the United States depend on the development of free markets and the establishment of democratic institutions abroad. U.S. foreign assistance strengthens our ability to promote peace, to combat the spread of illegal drugs, to fight terrorism, and to halt nuclear proliferation. It is incumbent on every one of us to spread the message that a strong U.S. commitment to development and international cooperation means a strong United States. Our ability to accomplish our goals hinges on our ability to get this message out. I share Ambassador Sherman's gratitude for many of you coming a long way to be with us here today.