McCaul & Engel Offer Legislation Reaffirming the Pillars of American Foreign Policy

Statement

Today, Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX), Lead Republican of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Rep. Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), Chairman of the Committee, introduced three pieces of legislation reaffirming the importance of American values, alliances, and diplomacy and development as pillars of a uniquely American foreign policy. The three bipartisan resolutions will help guide the Committee's agenda and priorities for the 116th Congress.

"The United States is strongest on the global stage when we conduct a foreign policy rooted in core American values--support for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law--and when we use the tools of diplomacy and development in conjunction with like-minded friends and allies. With the measures I introduced with Mr. McCaul, Congress has an opportunity to emphasize the key pillars that underpin our greatest successes as a world power. In the days ahead, the Foreign Affairs Committee will look to these principles as we advance legislation and conduct oversight aimed at advancing American interests and security around the world," said Chairman Engel.

"With strong American leadership and a shared understanding of democratic principles at the foundation of U.S. foreign policy we can make the 21st century a time of peace and prosperity. The spread of liberty around the world is what tyrants and terrorists fear the most. By asserting the unshakable pillars of American values including advancement of democracy, expansion of human rights, and pursuit of freedom the United States will continue to represent the beacon of hope for others to follow. I am very proud to introduce these resolutions with Chairman Engel to reaffirm America's trusted alliances and promote security and prosperity globally. These self-evident values must always be fought for in a bipartisan manner, and I look forward to working with Members of the Committee to pass these important measures," said Ranking Member McCaul.

NOTE: The lawmakers introduced three resolutions outlining these principles. The first (H.Res.221) asserts that American values--namely support for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law--should be at the center of American foreign policy and guide U.S. efforts around the world. The second (H.Res.222) underscores the importance of America's alliances in promoting security and driving prosperity. The third (H.Res.220), introduced along with House Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Chair Nita Lowey and Ranking Member Hal Rogers, emphasizes the importance of diplomacy and development efforts as tools essential for a successful foreign policy.

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