U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on Tuesday stressed the need for international mutual development is “morally and strategically essential.” Speaking at the daylong White House Summit on International Development in Washington, DC, she said that though the United States and much of the world is in the midst of a financial crisis, the focus on developing countries must not be lost. The summit was attended by American lawmakers and the international diplomatic corps. The initiative, which is organized by the White House, also works in conjunction with the U.S.-led Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), who is a U.S. initiative that aims to promote good governance, economic freedom, and investments in the citizenry of poor and developing countries. The MCC has allocated $7.5 billion in grants to developing countries. Calling such an initiative a “special and unique” opportunity, Rice said that the summit takes place as the world is facing “unprecedented challenges,” citing the financial, food, and oil crises. Despite such challenges facing both the United States and the international community, Rice said we “must focus on the fundamentals… on the people” that are facing poverty and sustainability, and continue to show “enduring support for these men, women and children.” “When times are hard…every nation is focused on [taking care] of its own interest” adding though, that we cannot forget those internationally that are still very much in need. While the United States has taken “decisive and necessary action” in addressing the widespread financial crisis, the world must still stress “renewed action to promote global trade” which is the key to prosperity. “There is no aspect of our work together that is more important,” she added. “Developed nations must help those developing nations,” Rice said, emphasizing the importance of “accountability” for nations that have agreed to be part of the MCC. But, Rice also made a point to say that the United States does not see impoverished nations as a cause, but as “partners” in the cause of international development. Rice was also joined by Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who thanked U.S. President George W. Bush for saying “enough is enough,” and working to end the civil conflict in her country five years ago.
