Press handout photos here: https://flic.kr/s/aHsmHqWh75
Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/cOEpB-ZtsSg

LAS VEGAS – Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV) joined with more than 150 southern Nevada business, veteran, and community leaders today to discuss the importance of American diplomacy and development programs to Nevada’s economy and national security.

“Our nation’s diplomats and development workers play a vital role in promoting our country’s moral leadership around the world. Deploying our full set of diplomatic tools helps women lift themselves out of poverty in Nigeria and boosts jobs tied to tourism and trade right here in Nevada,” said Congresswoman Dina Titus. “As a Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I will continue working to ensure that we make effective investments in diplomacy that safeguard our country and help us tackle worldwide challenges.”

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).

“America’s global allies and partners play a critical role in protecting our national security, helping us to confront threats before they become widespread conflicts,” said Ambassador Dan Baer, former U.S. Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. “Alongside the military, our U.S. diplomatic corps and development experts build and strengthen these alliances. Together, they ensure our nation is equipped with the tools necessary to keep Americans safe, while also reinforcing U.S. leadership around the world.”

Over 308,000 jobs in Nevada are tied to international trade, and Nevada’s exports to foreign markets total more than $12.2 billion a year—meaning U.S. international engagement isn’t just a matter of national security, it’s a strategic economic issue for the Silver State.

“More than 95% of the world’s consumers live beyond the borders of the United States. And that means more consumers for American-made products, particularly in emerging economies across Africa,” said Lionel Johnson, President of the Pacific Pension & Investment Institute. “When we invest in U.S. diplomacy and development, we’re not only improving the lives of people worldwide, we’re helping American businesses reach new markets and creating jobs back here in the U.S— and in Nevada.”

A strong and growing coalition in the state, the USGLC’s Nevada Advisory Committee brings together more than 80 business, faith, non-profit, veteran, and political leaders who understand why American global leadership matters for Nevada.

“In a region where tourism reigns supreme, Congresswoman Titus keenly understands that America’s global engagement has an impact on Nevada’s economy,” said Jason Gross, USGLC Executive Director. “Through her work on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, she has shown a deep and unwavering commitment to U.S. diplomatic and development strength – ensuring the economic well-being and security of communities across southern Nevada.”

Also participating in today’s forum was the former Governor of Nevada, Bob Miller; Peter Guzman, President & CEO of the Latin Chamber of Commerce Nevada; and Lena Walther, Honorary Swedish Consul to Nevada and President of Awareness is Prevention.