"The United States' support for the U.N. is critical."
"I am absolutely confident that Dr. Rice is up to that challenge."
"The United States will never ask permission to defend ourselves or our allies."
"It is important to use the United Nations as a vehicle to promote peace and stability."
"If we expect the United Nations to fulfill its important missions, we need to do better by upholding our end of the bargain."
"Dr. Susan Rice is one of our most capable national security thinkers."
"I am really deeply honored to appear before you as the President-elect's designee to be the United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations."
"I want to express my gratitude to Senator Susan Collins and Senator Evan Bayh for their very, very generous introductions of me."
"I know the U.N. sometimes deeply frustrates Americans, and I am acutely aware of its shortcomings."
"The fact that more than 1 year after the force was established the crucial U.N. mission in Darfur is only at half-strength is patently unacceptable."
"You have been an ardent champion of a principled U.S. foreign policy to ensure this country's security and prosperity."