The best way we can help now and in the future is by supporting the Syrian people's right to freedom and dignity.

It is time for us to start thinking about the day after Assad.

These acts of violence against the people of Syria are unacceptable. The Syrian regime no longer has legitimacy because of those acts of violence.

All of the posts being considered today are critical in strengthening U.S. influence in safeguarding American interests around the globe.

We're beginning to see an international consensus that comes closer to our position that Qadafi has to go, has to step down, and we need to move toward a democratic transition.

I want to congratulate each of you on your nominations and welcome you and your families and friends as we discuss the challenges and opportunities that you face should you be confirmed.

Moldova is Europe's poorest country, according to the World Bank.

Macedonia seeks full European integration, including by joining the EU and NATO.

Its full integration can't be achieved, however, until the Macedonians and the Greeks resolve the lingering impasse over the country's name.

the President has been throughout this administration, both to engage with Iran to work out a new relationship, but at the same time to make clear that we expect Iran to come into full compliance with its obligations.

In today's complex international environment, it is critical for USAID and the State Department to recruit and retain America's best and brightest if we are to overcome the difficult security challenges of the 21st century.

I am pleased today to speak in strong support of Mara Rudman's nomination as the next Assistant Administrator for the Middle East at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

Mara has remained a good friend to my office, and her valued counsel over the years has been insightful, prudent, and sound.

personally do play a role. At least reading the reporting about how particularly some of the Russian human rights activists feel about Putin's return to the Presidency, there is some concern about what that means for the state of democracy…

As a cochair of the Atlantic Council's Georgia Task Force, tomorrow I am going to be among those who release a new policy report providing recommendations for the United States, Europe, and Georgia on how we can advance Georgia's…

The Russians continued to express their concerns with NATO's phased adaptive approach.

I believe, Dr. McFaul, that you are up to this challenge, and I intend to support your nomination and hope that we can move forward quickly to confirm you.

I will strongly support his nomination, and I hope the full Senate will quickly confirm him and send him to Moscow.