Press handout photos here: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmJB9pfc
Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/XbuIOalG83Q

FARGO – Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) joined with more than 150 business, veteran, and community leaders today to discuss the importance of American diplomacy and development programs to North Dakota’s economy and national security.

“[North Dakota’s] role in global leadership… it’s really a transfer of our views, our values,” said Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND). “I’m inspired every day by the fact that our farmers feed people all over the world. There are hungry people and many of them are in developing countries… it pays off locally to be involved globally.”

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) hosted today’s foreign policy forum at a time when policy makers are considering the next year’s federal budget, including resources for the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

“We owe a debt of gratitude to all who serve to protect our nation. And I’m not just talking about members of the Armed Forces. Alongside our men and women in uniform, our nation’s diplomats and development workers help advance our national security around the world from preventing small-scale events evolve into full-blown crises,” said Lt. Gen. Richard Newton, USAF (ret.). “During my 34 years on Active Duty, I witnessed firsthand when our military and civilian forces work together, the results are unmatched. Combined, they help America broker peace between warring states, deliver life-saving medicine to people in need, among others, and bring hope to so many people.”

Over 104,000 jobs in North Dakota are tied to international trade, and North Dakota’s exports to foreign markets total more than $5.3 billion a year—meaning U.S. international engagement isn’t just a matter of national security, it’s a strategic economic issue for the Peace Garden State.

“From corn and cattle to farm equipment, North Dakota exports don’t just sustain the state’s economy — they feed the hungry and jumpstart development abroad,” said Jock Scharfen, Vice President, Corporate Affairs for North America, Cargill. “This state is a leader in agricultural production and is paving the way in innovation. At Cargill, we’re proud to research and develop the latest technologies and methodologies that improve farming and nutrition for entire communities — both here in North Dakota and around the world.”

A strong and growing coalition in the state, the USGLC’s North Dakota Advisory Committee brings together more than 45 business, faith, non-profit, veteran, and political leaders who understand why American global leadership matters for North Dakota.

“Today’s event with Senator Cramer brought together an impressive group of North Dakota leaders who all understand that when America leads, we all win,” said Liz Schrayer, President & CEO of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition. “And it’s exciting for the USGLC to host the senator for the second time just this year – who gets why our nation’s civilian tools of national security are essential for projecting our values and keeping America safe.”

Also participating in today’s forum was the Honorable Ed Schafer, former North Dakota Governor and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture; Dr. Dean Bresciani, President of North Dakota State University; Michelle Kommer, Commissioner of North Dakota Department of Commerce; and Pastor Dave Motta, Calvary United Methodist Church.