Mr. Chairman, we have reached a point more than halfway between the disintegration of the Soviet Union and the start of a new century.  Our nation is respected and at peace.  Our alliances are vigorous.  Our economy is strong.  And from the distant corners of Asia to the emerging democracies of Central Europe and Africa, to the community of democracies that exists within our own hemisphere – and to the one impermanent exception to that community, Castro's Cuba – American institutions and ideals are a model for those who love freedom.

All this is no accident, and its continuation is by no means inevitable.  Democratic progress must be sustained as it was built – by American leadership.  And our leadership must be sustained if our interests are to be protected around the world….

I could say to you that it had always been my ambition to be Secretary of State of the United States.  But that is not true.  Frankly, I did not think it was possible.
I arrived in America when I was 11 years old.  My family came here to escape communism and to find freedom, and we did.  My ambition at that time was only to speak English well, please my parents, study hard and grow up to be an American. 

The newspaper in Denver, where we lived, had a motto that read, "'Tis a privilege to live in Colorado."  My father used to repeat that motto on a regular basis, but he would often add a reminder: "Kids," he would say, "never forget that it is also a privilege to live in the United States."  Long after I left home, my mother would call on the Fourth of July to ask my children, her grandchildren: "Tell me, are you singing any patriotic songs?"

Senators, you on your side of the table and I on my side, have a unique opportunity to be partners in creating a new and enduring framework for American leadership.  One of my predecessors, Dean Acheson, wrote about being present at the creation of a new era.  You and I have the challenge and the responsibility to help co-author the newest chapter in our history.

In so doing, let us remember that there is not a page of American history of which we are proud that was written by a chronic complainer or prophet of despair.  We are doers.

By rejecting the temptations of isolation, and by standing with those around the world who share our values, we will advance our own interests; honor our best traditions; and help to answer a prayer that has been offered over many years in a multitude of tongues, in accordance with diverse customs, in response to a common yearning.

That prayer is the prayer for peace, freedom, food on the table and what President Clinton once so eloquently referred to as "the quiet miracle of a normal life."

If with your consent, I am confirmed as Secretary of State, I will ask you to join me in doing all we can, as representatives of the indispensable nation, and with the help of God, to answer that prayer.

Thank you very much.