WASHINGTON, DC—Representative Eliot L. Engel, the leading Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement in response to the President’s remarks on American foreign policy:

"Today, President Obama made a clear and strong case for American leadership in the 21st century and why the United States must remain engaged around the world.

"American military and economic might are without peer, and we will always protect our country and our citizens in the face of a direct challenge. When we ignore threats to democracy and human rights—when we tolerate rogue leaders who endanger security and flout international laws—we do so at our peril. By working with our partners around the world to promote freedom, prosperity, and opportunity, we also advance our own interests, creating stronger relationships to contribute to the global economy and project stability across regions. If we were to withdraw from our global leadership role, we would be ceding the playing field to dictators and extremists who preach violence and hatred.

"That's why from Ukraine to Nigeria to Southeast Asia, people are looking to the United States for leadership. By answering that call now and in the years ahead, we will help build a freer, more just world, and we will ensure our role as the world's one indispensable power."

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