President Obama has made a fresh and energetic choice in selecting Dr. Rajiv Shah to be the next Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Dr. Shah brings unique expertise and experience to the position, including familiarity with the crucial areas of global development, global health and agricultural development.

As the President said in his statement, “The mission of USAID is to advance America’s interests by strengthening our relationships abroad.   Rajiv brings fresh ideas and the dedication and impressive background necessary to help guide USAID as it works to achieve this important goal.”  Discussing the important role development must play moving forwarding, Secretary Clinton said, “By nominating Raj to lead the United States Agency for International Development, President Obama has reaffirmed that development must be a core pillar of American foreign policy.”

The announcement comes at a time when leadership at the development agency is desperately needed.  With a Presidential Study Directive on Global Development, the State Department’s Quadrennial Diplomacy and Development Review, and bipartisan bills in both houses of Congress to reform U.S. foreign assistance, a strong administrator is needed to guide the agency and ensure its effectiveness.

USGLC’s statement on Dr. Shah’s nomination
White House statement on Dr. Shah’s nomination
State Department’s statement on Dr. Shah’s nomination