LAS VEGAS, NV – In a city that welcomes six million international tourists every year, the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) hosted a roundtable discussion in Las Vegas featuring Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01) on the importance of U.S. global leadership to Nevada’s economic growth and national security. 

Titus was joined by Lt. Gen. Jody J. Daniels, U.S. Army (Ret.), and Rony Belgarde, Founder & CEO, Global Paint for Charity, Inc., alongside military, business, farmer, faith, nonprofit, and community leaders for a conversation highlighting how strategic investments in diplomacy and international assistance help expand opportunities for Nevada businesses, strengthen U.S. competitiveness, and reinforce America’s global leadership.  

“Thirteen of the top 15 U.S. trading partners were once recipients of U.S. assistance. Put that into perspective into how foreign aid and international assistance can come back in the form of trade, with Nevada companies exporting roughly $18 billion in goods and services to other countries,” said Representative Dina Titus (D-NV-01). “Our state also depends on hospitality and tourism, and our international market is our growth market.” 

“International assistance is, in many ways, just as important a tool of American power projection as our military might,” said Lt. Gen. Jody J. Daniels, U.S. Army (Ret.). “Throughout my career, I saw how investments in diplomacy and development stabilize fragile regions, stop disease outbreaks before they spread, and secure America’s influence in places where our adversaries are eager to fill the void. It’s one of the smartest investments we can make in our national security.” 

“Our economy depends on global relationships. Our tourism, hospitality industries, they welcome millions of international visitors each year. Our universities and businesses depend on global supply chains, foreign investors, and access to international markets,” said Rony Belgarde, Founder & CEO, Global Paint for Charity, Inc. “When America leads, America wins. Our businesses grow. When we invest in innovation and global partnerships, we create new opportunities for our entrepreneurs, students, educators, and communities across our state.” 

“Strategic investments in assistance and diplomacy are a very small part of our budget, less than one half of 1% of total government spending, and it’s really important to have this funding in place in order to prevent terrorism, disease, and other threats from migrating to our shores, as well as building partnerships and reaching new markets,” said Jim Richardson, USGLC’s National Outreach Director. “Las Vegas is a tourist hub. International visitors matter and having a welcoming and dynamic sense of community is really important to welcome international visitors.” 

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