Ed Markey

I think the mere fact that we are having it marks our Nation as exceptional.

We publicly expressed our concern over the Government of Bahrain's recent decrees restricting the rights and abilities of political groups to assemble, associate, and express themselves freely.

EITI has been a very, very helpful tool.

Countries in the developing world with major extractive industries are often regarded as suffering from the so-called 'resource curse.'

Freedom of religion is critical to a peaceful, inclusive, and thriving society, and supporting it is a critical component of U.S. foreign policy.

You are really the pluperfect embodiment of someone who has dedicated her life to helping other people.

We roll up our sleeves and we get ready for the next round.

I support Secretary Kerry's efforts and believe that we must continue to keep the Palestinians at the table engaged in face to face negotiations with the Israelis.

I think your uncle Ted is really proud of you sitting here.

Human rights and democracy are core U.S. values that will remain a priority in our relationship with countries in the region, including Bahrain.

I would also like to know your views on the next steps moving forward in Egypt to realize the promise we had hoped for from the events in Tahir Square in 2011.

Ambassador Roos has lamented the decline in the number of Japanese students coming to the United States.

I would like to increase trade and use TTIP as a tool to do so.

One of the issues, of course, that we have is this ongoing effort by Russia to use natural gas as an economic weapon.

Until then it is my view we must maintain and increase pressure on the regime in order to ensure the success that we want.

The Holy See has no battalions, has no nuclear arsenals, but it has credibility and influence around the world.

If confirmed and I am serving there as an Ambassador for the United States, I will want to really continue to develop that relationship because it has been so important to us.

I believe the President's plan provides a renewed opportunity to work more closely on environmental advocacy with the Holy See.

I expect the Iraqis to hold the guilty parties responsible for their actions.

It is a very important issue for the United States and for Austria--energy diversification.

Italy is such a strategically located country with respect to northern Africa and southern Europe.

It is a privilege and honor for me to be your first witness of your first hearing.

I thank you very much. You are an excellent choice to be Ambassador.

We will reconvene the committee, and we will begin by hearing from John Phillips.

I support a diplomatic solution to the crisis and hope that we can find such an opening with a newly elected government in Iran.