With America First, the US can lead the world into a better future – The Hill

March 10, 2025 | By John R. Block, who served as the secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture under President Ronald Reagan, and John H. Costello, who served as the president and co-founder of CNFA, an international agriculture development organization.

“From its beginning, U.S. development aid has been designed to advance U.S. interests by promoting market access, innovation and business opportunities; creating a level playing field for U.S. businesses; and supporting more democratic and resilient governance abroad. International development is rooted in America’s greatness and goodness, and American strength is central to world peace… Reagan, a staunch conservative, was initially skeptical of foreign aid. However, as his time in the White House broadened his hands-on experience in international policy, he embraced the crucial importance of these tools.”