"This is a moment to stand with the Egyptian people" and people across the Arab world who are fighting for democracy, a senior foreign policy official of the Obama administration told students and others at Duke's Sanford School of Public Policy Monday evening.
"Justice and democracy deferred can easily become justice and democracy denied" in what has emerged as a "remarkable time" for the Middle East, North Africa and the world, said Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg, the nation's number two diplomat. While emphasizing the need for local movements to take the lead without inappropriate interference from foreign powers, he said, "I'm optimistic about what we can accomplish together."
In his talk sponsored by Duke's Program in American Grand Strategy, Steinberg provided a sweeping review of U.S. foreign policy, from its relationships with traditional allies in Western Europe and East Asia to its efforts to deal with newer threats such as terrorism and climate change. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing these challenges, citing the role of the G-20 and other multilateral organizations in addressing recent situations such as the worldwide economic crisis.
Steinberg also described the State Department's efforts to support nongovernmental organizations and civil society around the world, calling this essential to promoting social change in countries where freedom is now limited. "It is more important than ever that the American government focus on working with people and governments," he said.
The Obama administration is committed to working with other nations to address problems that range from HIV/AIDS in Africa to drug violence in Mexico, Steinberg said. Nonetheless, even as it pursues cooperation, "leadership is essential, leadership that the United States can uniquely provide."