I don't understand this continuing violence against them. And I would hope the United States makes it very clear to Egypt that the continuing attacks on people, simply because of the altar that they choose to worship at, is not acceptable.

I don't think there could be the slightest doubt about our views about Egypt's adherence to the Camp David peace treaty with Israel.

You've had a distinguished career, and you have been nominated for an exceptionally important assignment at this time in history.

It's really about using all the tools we have at our disposal, including the Treasury Department's actions that have been quite crucial where Iran is concerned in terms of financial assets and financial transactions.

I share your concern about Iran.

I just would be interested, after the announcement by the IAEA just last week that they've increased their enrichment activities, what further actions do you think might be necessary or might be taken by the administration to strengthen…

If we were to come to the conclusion that we do not believe that Egypt is pursuing its international obligations to that agreement, then we would expect that we would not be forthcoming in terms of the $1.5 billion that we give Egypt?

I do have a very strong view that to have a successful economy, you need to have opportunities for poor people.

What role will the United States and international community play in ensuring that the elections are free and fair?

I think I would see my role as putting a lot of priority on strengthening democratic institutions because there is an issue of having a system that will avoid a political crisis, such as the one that occurred in 2009.

We must be ready at all times to defend our policies and programs, both in-country and in Washington.

I do not believe having your political affairs director smoking a cigar with a narcotics trafficker is reaching out to civil society.

Our No. 1 concern going forward would be the situation domestically for the upcoming elections and whether or not international and domestic observers will be allowed to observe those.

the ability to engage not just with civil society, but with human rights activists and political dissidents languishing inside of their country to create the space that is necessary for the proper democratic process to take place is very…

I am as committed to engage the Nicaraguan civil society as I have been with their Cuban counterparts during the last 3 years.

If confirmed, I will work with the government and civil society to help strengthen democracy and governance, promote constructive political dialogue, and encourage greater citizen participation in the political process.

I have never believed that Mr. Megrahi alone was the beginning and the end of the mastermind of Pan Am 103's bombing.

In what is the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere, Ortega has clearly put his own personal enrichment and empowerment over the welfare of the Nicaraguan people.