Bob Casey

If the international community invested a total of $5 billion annually, we would reduce emissions caused by clearing tropical forests by 20 percent in the year 2020

Thank you Mr. Chairman and I'd like to say at the outset what an honor it is to be here today as a new member of the HELP Committee.

I have a profound commitment to the issues that fall within this committee's jurisdiction and I look forward to working together with my colleagues on issues of vital importance to the American people.

As we embark on a new era of hope and change and responsibility, our health care system tops the list of priorities.

This is an especially significant time in our Nation's history, not only because we're starting a new administration, but because I think on the issue of health care we've finally arrived at a point where there is a consensus.

We have to understand that, for us, it's obviously critical that this be addressed; it is a direct and immediate threat to us, as the President and the Secretary have said.

I would welcome your thoughts, if you've had a moment--after you're confirmed--to decide whether that is the most effective way for us to proceed.

I want to underscore Darfur and Sudan. The Secretary indicated the need to make sure that the personnel commitments are made to that region to stop the human rights violations and genocide.

I agree precisely with what you said. I think it's exactly what we need to do.

I think OSCE could play a critical role in dealing with Russia, because Russia is a participating state.

This is not about just simply being a good neighbor; this is about policies that are in the national interest and security of the United States.

I think transparency is at the heart of it, because once we have transparency, then there's an opportunity to really sort of see what the implications of policy are.

I just want your commitment that we will pursue these issues and you will work very closely with this committee as to how we complete our responsibility to make sure those who have committed war crimes are held accountable.

This is not in the national interests or security interests of the United States.

The President-elect believes that the United States has a moral obligation and a responsibility for security that demands that we address Iraq's humanitarian challenge.

The magnitude of this challenge requires a comprehensive approach developed working with the Iraqi government, the regional states, the United Nations and other institutions to address the full range of needs.

Multilateral sanctions should be pursued, despite the opposition that such measures have faced in the past.

Burma, and its reclusive and repressive regime, may represent one of the most intractable challenges for the global community.

Widened U.S. sanctions are appropriate.

We must continue to speak the truth about Zimbabwe, and to support those in the region and elsewhere who do the same.

President Mugabe lost the election last March and has no legitimate claim to power.

Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve.

I wanted to reiterate some points of it, which is the gravest threat that we face, and that's the threat of nuclear terrorism.

I think it's a good forecaster of the kind of administration that we're about to see.

Sudan obviously is a place where the atrocities and crimes against humanity are manifest every day.