Kerry seeks new money for democratic transition in Middle East

[The Straight Story]

Kerry seeks new money for democratic transition in Middle East

Senator John Kerry today unveiled plans to offer financial assistance to promote democracy and reforms in the Arab world.

Although he did not put a dollar figure on the amount he is seeking, the Massachusetts Democrat called for "significant financial commitment" of new money to be earmarked for economists, election experts, and aid to people in the Arab world who are pushing for a historic transformation of their region.

“Events this powerful demand a response of equal power," Kerry said in remarks prepared for delivery in his capacity as chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. "Our commitment now to the ordinary people who are risking their lives to win human rights and democracy will be remembered for generations in the Arab world. We have to get this moment right. We are working here in the Senate with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to create a package of financial assistance to help turn the new Arab awakening into a lasting rebirth."

Kerry was speaking at a hearing about the State Department's budget at a time when Republicans have vowed to cut foreign aid funding. But he said the aid package has bipartisan support.

http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2011/03/kerry_seeks_new_1.html

[WinkyDink]

1. "Democracy" is not consistent with "Theocracy." More $$ down a rat-hole.