For Immediate Release, February 1, 2013
Contact: Allison Sturma, 202-429-4725
 

(Washington) – Jim Marshall, president of the United States Institute of Peace, issued the following statement as Senator John Kerry is sworn in as Secretary of State.

"On behalf of the U.S. Institute of Peace, I extend my congratulations to John Kerry as he begins his tenure as Secretary of State. Throughout his service in the U.S. Senate, Secretary Kerry has demonstrated his deep understanding of the changing nature of international conflict and the important leadership role that the United States plays in peacebuilding. In May 2012, then-Senator Kerry met with our Afghanistan team in Kabul to discuss not only the 2014 withdrawal of American forces, but also women’s issues, a smooth political transition, and the role of civil society in a stable future. The Institute looks forward to building upon our history of partnership with both the State Department and Secretary Kerry on such matters."

"Secretary Kerry follows in big footsteps given the significant contributions that Secretary Clinton has made to building peace around the world. The Institute has had the privilege of hosting Secretary Clinton for several events over her four years at the State Department. Her impact as Secretary cannot be overstated – from leading on gender issues, rule of law, and human rights to numerous other vital areas. She has led the global conversation that conflict does not have to end in violence. On behalf of the board of directors and staff of the Institute, I thank Secretary Clinton for her leadership and dedication."

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The United States Institute of Peace is an independent, nonpartisan conflict management center created by Congress to prevent and mitigate international conflict through nonviolent means. USIP works to save lives, increase the government’s ability to deal with conflicts before they escalate, reduce government costs, and enhance national security. USIP is headquartered in Washington, DC. To learn more visit www.usip.org.