WASHINGTON – The USGLC President and CEO Liz Schrayer issued the following statement on the passage of the FY19 funding agreement:

Last night’s spending bill puts Congress firmly on the record that America cannot afford to retreat from the world. The steadfast leadership on both sides of the aisle affirms that diplomacy and development are among our nation’s “most cost-effective national security tools.”

The small increase provided for the International Affairs Budget holds the line at a critical moment for our leadership around the world. At the same time, it’s clear that America is not keeping pace with the growing global threats we face. Whether it’s responding to the largest number of displaced people in human history, fighting the second largest Ebola outbreak ever, or competing in the world’s fastest growing markets as China expands its footprint, America simply can’t get left behind.

We look forward to working with bipartisan Congressional champions, led by Chairman Graham and Chairwoman Lowey and Ranking Members Leahy and Rogers, to ensure these critical programs are fully funded in FY20 and beyond.