The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) traveled to Capitol Hill yesterday morning to brief Congressional staffers and USGLC members on the President’s $58.5 billion FY11 International Affairs Budget request.  Over 40 staffers attended to hear about the USGLC’s detailed analysis.

The briefing focused on the importance of the President’s proposed funding for America’s smart power tools of development and diplomacy and their impact on national security, economic growth, and saving lives overseas.

When Congress returns from its President’s Day recess next week, it will begin consideration of the FY11 International Affairs Budget request with Secretary Clinton testifying before committees in both houses. Totaling only 1.4% percent of the federal budget, this vital part of our national security funds America’s “smart power” civilian-led tools of development and diplomacy.

Take a look at some pictures from the standing-room-only event.

Liz Schrayer, executive director of the USGLC, and Tod Preston, the USGLC’s director of government affairs, were joined by a panel of leaders from the international affairs and development communities, including Ritu Sharma, executive director of Women Thrive Worldwide; Todd Shelton, senior director for Public Policy at InterAction; and Larry Nowels, one of the premier experts on the International Affairs Budget.