If there were only three things that we could accomplish this Congress that would address the Nation's overall language needs as well as Federal agencies' language shortfall, what should those three things be?

Understanding foreign languages is also vital to our economic security as Americans compete in the global marketplace.

While I support this goal, I oppose cutting language pay funding to do so.

the first recommendation calls for strong and comprehensive leadership.

Foreign language proficiency and cultural understanding are essential to protecting our national security.

I am pleased by the efforts the Department has taken and the importance it has placed on this problem.

Foreign language skills are necessary to provide vital services to people with limited English abilities.

enact the Senator Akaka bill for a national strategy and coordination so that the whole thing would be managed and coordinated as necessary

the innovation in language draft legislation that Congressman Holt and Congressman Chu from California and Paul Tonko from New York have put together reflects some of the best thinking in the field right now

As always, I want to thank Senator Voinovich, who has been a leader on this issue.

Well, I want to thank you very much. We have further questions that we will send to you. But I want to thank you for appearing here today.