US Mission Geneva

“This is a great moment to look at where we stand in the world in the pursuit of economic growth and prosperity that is broadly inclusive and sustainable.”

Richard’s first trip as Assistant Secretary will include a visit to Geneva to attend an important conference on Afghanistan sponsored by UNHCR.

In 2011, the worst drought in 60 years struck the Horn of Africa. The United Nations declared famine in six regions of Somalia, threatening the lives of over 250,000 Somalis, and requiring urgent humanitarian assistance for more than 13.3 million people in Ethiopia, Kenya and other parts of Somalia. The international community responded and famine conditions abated in January 2012. Nevertheless, today, more than 9 million people still remain in need of emergency assistance in Horn of Africa.

USAID and the U.S. Department of State are committing a total of $1 million to the World Bank’s Water and Sanitation Program.

“For the first time, we have the tools and the knowledge to change child mortality,” said USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah as he outlined the campaign.

The United States remains committed to supporting countries working toward democracy across Africa, says Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Johnnie Carson.

Today’s event on “Women in Development” offers another important moment to highlight the important role of women in development and economic growth.

The United States has voted in favor of resolution 2043 authorizing the establishment of a UN supervision mission in Syria, but we are sober about the risks, all the more so given the Assad regime’s long record of broken promises, deceit and disregard for the most basic standards of humanity.

We must advance equality and opportunity for women and girls and unlock the potential of half of the world’s population.