"Thereare few jobs in the United States government more important to both oursecurity and our economy than Secretary of State. In selecting Sen. John Kerryfor this critical position, the President has nominated a public servant ofintegrity, experience and vision. Sen. Kerry will keep the United States safein a dangerous world while also promoting American products and services aroundthe globe.
"It is well known that Sen. Kerry has proven his skills in numeroussensitive overseas missions on behalf of our nation. In addition, he hasembodied the very best in American public diplomacy by conveying so clearlythat we welcome international visitors. From Boston's Freedom Trail to theCalifornia coastline, and across the great American heartland between, Sen.Kerry understands that the most effective ambassador for our values abroad isthe ordinary American – and the most effective antidote to strife among nationsis direct engagement.
"In that context, Sen. Kerry has long been a champion for improving ourvisa and entry process – efforts on which the State Department has maderemarkable progress over the last year. The domestic economic impact has beenequally staggering, helping the travel industry generate new jobs this year atan unprecedented rate. From eliminating delays in visa applications toexpanding the Visa Waiver Program, we will continue to work closely with Sen.Kerry to convey to the world that the United States is open for business."
TheU.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representingall components of the travel industry that generates $1.9 trillion in economicoutput and supports 14.4 million jobs. U.S. Travel's mission is to increasetravel to and within the United States.
Visit www.ustravel.org.
