Fortenberry Calls for "Diplomatic Surge"

Press Release

Fortenberry Calls for "Diplomatic Surge"

Congressman Jeff Fortenberry this week introduced legislation calling for a "Diplomatic Surge" to further progress in Iraq and the Middle East.

"We must now complement our military operations with an equally vigorous ‘Diplomatic Surge,'" Fortenberry said. "The U.S. Congress should promote bold new approaches to increase stability and sectarian reconciliation in Iraq and the Middle East."

Fortenberry's measure, H. Con. Resolution 272, urges the U.S. Government to engage international stakeholders and governments in the region to curtail destabilizing influences, help prevent the spread of violence, and enhance progress in Iraq.

Fortenberry raised the idea of a "Diplomatic Surge" when Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee in October. Secretary Rice noted that responsible nations in the Middle East are beginning to pursue multilateral security initiatives to foster stability in the region. "I was encouraged by the Secretary's testimony," Fortenberry said.

"We must build on momentum created by efforts such as the Annapolis initiative to increase multilateral collaboration in the Middle East - for the sake of a more peaceful region and a more peaceful world."

Fortenberry is a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the Subcommittee on the Middle East and South Asia. He also serves on the House Democracy Assistance Commission.

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