Obviously, in these times of fiscal and economic challenge, every part of the budget should be on the table – including the mere 1 percent that goes to our diplomacy and development programs.

But pitting support for international affairs programs against domestic spending is a false choice. The real question should be, “What tools are necessary to promote America’s vital interests at this important moment in our history?”

Disproportionate cuts to our diplomacy and development tools would weaken American leadership at the very moment it is most needed, from opening up new markets for American goods and services to supporting fragile democracies emerging from the Arab Spring.

Read more and add your voice on the New York Times blog Room for Debate.