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[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E402-E403]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
AMERICA'S GLOBAL LEADERSHIP DURING COVID-19
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HON. JASON CROW
of colorado
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, April 28, 2020
Mr. CROW. Madam Speaker, I would like to thank Representatives Yoho
and Bera for their leadership in hosting this special order during a
particularly difficult period not only for the United States, but the
whole world.
With more than 3 million confirmed cases across 185 countries, the
COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated that infectious diseases know no
borders. They thrive on inequality and exacerbate societal schisms. The
only proven way to avert an unchecked humanitarian disaster is through
a united, global response.
During times of crisis, it has been the United States that has
stepped into the void to provide a path forward. This is a global
moment that requires the mantle of bold leadership that our nation has
assumed in the past. The path toward overcoming the specter of COVID-19
lies not in xenophobia and isolationism, but rather an embrace of a
coordinated international response.
It demands we chart a course for global health that extends beyond
the urgency of this moment into the future; so that we are prepared for
whatever challenges lie beyond the horizon. This effort requires a
multipronged approach to global health programs that the United States
has the capacity and the scientific expertise to lead.
First, we must help developing countries to improve their ability to
more effectively combat disease. This pandemic has proven once again
that our health security is only as strong as the international
community.
Second, we must recommit to helping the tens of millions of people
fleeing war, persecution, and hardship around the world. Refugees
already suffer from food insecurity and are uniquely vulnerable to the
devastation of a virus like COVID-19.
And third, we must empower Americans serving on the frontlines as we
grapple with the pandemic. That means providing our diplomats, aid
personnel, and servicemembers with the resources they need to maintain
their global operations and provide emergency relief for millions of
people around the world.
We are strongest when we are united with our allies against a common
foe, and there is no more ubiquitous enemy than the scourge of a
pandemic. This is a moment when the world needs American leadership.
That is why I call on my colleagues to support increased funding for
the Department of State, USAID, and other federal agencies providing
essential international COVID-19 relief. I am also calling on the
Administration to work closely with our international partners and
organizations to develop a comprehensive path forward to respond to
COVID-19 and provide for our health security in the future.
[[Page E403]]
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