American diplomacy continues to inspire other countries, especially when the U.S. government holds countries accountable for human rights violations, according to Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo.
“I believe firmly that because we’re doing this hard work of diplomacy, many of our friends and partners are beginning to see the world with new eyes,” Pompeo said at the Heritage Foundation on October 22.
Establishing meaningful multilateral relationships with nations large and small has resulted in success stories across the globe, such as these:
• The formation of the Lima Group, 14 countries declaring their dedication to restoring democracy in Venezuela.
• ASEAN announcing its support for a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.
• The creation of the Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom, in which more than 100 countries participated in the largest human rights conference ever held at the State Department.
The secretary emphasized that the U.S. is committed to working with other nations “to share the burden of these global mission sets to achieve security around the world,” especially when it comes to Iran. “Hundreds of private companies are on board with our sanctions,” said Pompeo. “The world is learning, too, that Iran responds to strength, not supplication.”
The result of having these conversations abroad? Increased liberty for everyone, everywhere.
“This freedom we have in the United States of America is powerful and important,” Pompeo said, “and sets the trajectory for nations all across the world.”