Former National Security Advisor Gen. James Jones endorses new global poverty goals

“Embracing the Global Goals and ensuring they are fully achieved is in the United States’ long-term strategic interest, and should be a priority for America’s political leaders.”

WASHINGTON — As world leaders gather to adopt an ambitious set of Global Goals for Sustainable Development at the United Nations, General James L. Jones, USMC (Ret.), former National Security Advisor to President Obama, announced his support for the goals and the United States’ development efforts. The Global Goals aim to eliminate extreme poverty by 2030.

General Jones’ statement follows:

“The United States’ unique leadership role in the world has been earned not only through the strength of its economy and military, but through its unparalleled commitment to global development and humanitarian assistance. Support for development is a vital component of America’s national security strategy, and has been since the end of World War II. In today’s complex environment, development, plus security and good governance equals stability.  

“By bringing focus and coordination to the world’s development efforts, the Global Goals for Sustainable Development can be a transformative force for good in the world, and an important contributor to the United States’ long-term national security. Confronting the causes of food insecurity, energy poverty, lack of health services, ineffective infrastructure, and poor governance — as the Global Goals do — will help facilitate responsible, sustainable growth. Sustainable growth nurtures political stability. 

“No other country is better suited to provide holistic approaches to comprehensive economic, political, and social problems than the United States. It is among our most potent comparative advantages, and we must harness it. Embracing the Global Goals and ensuring they are fully achieved is in the United States’ long-term strategic interest, and should be a priority for America’s political leaders.”