When Colin L. Powell became Secretary of State on January 20, 2001, he said, "America stands ready to help any country that wishes to join the democratic world."
Since then his days have been fast-paced as the nation experienced both tragedy and triumph. The events of September 11, 2001, marked the greatest tragedy on American soil since World War II. But there have been triumphs, too:
- The destruction of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and the wrecking of al-Qaeda's terrorist network in that country;
- The return of freedom and opportunity to the people of Afghanistan;
- The overthrow of the terrible regime of Saddam Hussein in Iraq and the promise of freedom and democracy for the Iraqi people;
- The creation of a global fund to help people in Africa and all over the world who are suffering from HIV/AIDS;
- A new strategic relationship with Russia;
- Improved relations with China; and
- A new and promising opening to Central and South Asia.
These accomplishments required frequent travel by Secretary Powell. Since 2001, the Secretary has traveled over 527,000 miles - more than 20 times the distance around the earth!
