American Internationalism

It is America's honor and gift to be a nation of nations, whose people and aspirations touch every nation on the face of the earth. From universal dreams of freedom, equality, and prosperity, we became a country that melded many different cultures, ideas, perspectives, and talents -- giving us a rich diversity that continues to make us strong today.

With this strength comes great responsibility and a desire to engage with the international community. We are proud to say that the American way in the world is to promote freedom, democracy, free trade and development. It is to seek security for people who have already suffered too much. It is to inspire and be inspired by other nations to work together toward a peaceful and prosperous future. And words are not enough. Americans are committed to turning these visions into action.

Differences among nations and their governments are inevitable, of course. But our differences should not be equated with American unilateralism or American isolationism. On occasion, our experiences, our interests, will lead us to see things in a different way. For our part, we will not join a consensus if we believe it compromises our core principles. Nor would we expect other nations to join in a consensus that would compromise their core principles. When we feel strongly about something, we will lead. However the United States will always endeavor to achieve international agreement, and a look around the globe shows the United States working intensively with allies and partners on every continent.

I am pleased to welcome you to this electronic journal, which illustrates America's extensive record of cooperation, consensus and leadership as we strive to live up to our global responsibilities and our founding principles. I hope you'll share it with others who believe - like you - in the importance of American internationalism.

Secretary of State Colin L. Powell

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