AFF/STATE DEPT.: SOLVENCY EVIDENCE

STRENGTHENING THE STATE DEPT. MUST BE A TOP PRIORITY

Lee H. Hamilton, director of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars April 30, 2001 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel SECTION: NEWS; Pg. 11A HEADLINE: U.S. had better get on the ball and fortify State Department //VT2002acsln

These serious deficiencies in the State Department weaken our diplomats' capacity to monitor overseas events, avoid and resolve crises and protect the security of the American people. Strengthening American diplomacy should be a top priority of Congress and the president.

US FOREIGN POLICY CANNOT SUCCEED WITHOUT STRENGTHENING STATE DEPT. SUPPORT

Lee H. Hamilton, director of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars April 30, 2001 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel SECTION: NEWS; Pg. 11A HEADLINE: U.S. had better get on the ball and fortify State Department //VT2002acsln

A successful U.S. foreign policy requires vigorous and effective diplomacy. Yet I am concerned that the American foreign policy machinery is in a state of serious disrepair.

The State Department -- the principal agency of diplomacy -- currently suffers from low morale, insufficient staffing, outdated equipment and insecure facilities. Strengthening the State Department is an urgent national security priority.

STATE DEPT. NEEDS FUNDING AND REFORM TO SUCCEED

Lee H. Hamilton, director of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars April 30, 2001 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel SECTION: NEWS; Pg. 11A HEADLINE: U.S. had better get on the ball and fortify State Department //VT2002acsln

Our diplomats need more resources, and the State Department needs to make important reforms. Congress should provide adequate funds to make our overseas posts secure and to modernize the State Department's communications and information infrastructure. The State Department should reform its human resources practices so that top-flight people are encouraged to join the department and stay there.