Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman John Kerry delivered a speech last Thursday at the Brookings Institute in DC titled, “Diplomacy and Development in the 21st Century,” on his vision to strengthen the civilian instruments of America’s foreign policy.

An excerpt, and then the full text below:

“The good news is that, as we rebuild our civilian institutions, there will so many chances to lead in the process. We are living in a moment of volatility, but also—emphatically—a moment of possibility.

Infant mortality rates dropped by 27% worldwide since 1990. By 2015, let’s cut under-five mortality by two-thirds. Life expectancy is eight years higher than it was in 1990—but we can do better by cutting hunger and poverty in half and reversing the spread of HIV/AIDs, malaria and other major diseases. Primary school enrollment has increased by 10% –it’s time we made it universal. And while we’re at it, let’s eliminate gender disparity in education once and for all. As a proud father to two daughters, let me tell you: no child anywhere should be denied the right to learn just because she’s a girl.

History teaches us that America is safest and strongest when we understand that our security will not be protected by military means alone. It must be protected as well by our generosity, by our example, by powerful outreach, and by instilling a palpable sense in the people of the world that we understand—and share their destiny. That has always inspired people, and it always will. It undercuts our enemies, it empowers our friends—and it keeps us safer.”

Below are Senator Kerry’s remarks, as delivered:
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