Ronald Reagan Building
Washington, DC
June 19, 2018

ADMINISTRATOR GREEN: Thanks for that kind introduction. I'd also like to thank the rest of our Center for Faith and Opportunity Initiatives, and Malteser International Americas President Tom Wessels for being here, joining us today, and for formalizing this new partnership opportunity. And of course, thanks to all of you for being here.

USAID is proud to formally partner with Malteser International because we believe that it will help us more effectively reach some of the world's communities in need. We know that faith-based partners often have networks, historic relationships, and grassroots expertise that extend beyond our own. We also know that organizations like Malteser International are trusted voices in the communities where they work. They can carry important messages, lifesaving messages, that will help beneficiaries take the right the right steps for both immediate assistance and long-term strengthening.

I was fascinated to learn that Malteser International's parent organization, the Sovereign Order of Malta, is one of the oldest institutions of the western world. It dates back over 900 years and is now serving in more than 20 countries. That service includes helping people who live in the midst of armed conflicts and natural disasters, providing medical assistance, caring for the internally displaced and refugees, and distributing life-saving medicines and basic equipment for survival. And of course, as we all know, that's literally just scratching the surface.

At USAID, we believe that the purpose of foreign assistance should be ending its need to exist. At the same time, we also believe that we have an obligation to stand with the victims of disaster and catastrophe because that's who we are as Americans.

This MOU, and the reaffirmation of cooperation and coordination that it represents, will help us to continue to live up to those principles. Under its terms, we will work together on country and regional-level activities in the Americas, the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. It will help increase the reach of USAID missions throughout Malteser's historic and expansive networks on the ground. I'm excited and honored to be part of it. It's an important time for both institutions. Many challenges around the world, but I think working together we can extend our reach, help to lift lives, and reinforce communities.

So, thank you for your good work and for joining with us here today. We look to work with you more formally. I know we have interacted so many times over the years, but, again, I think this is a great day for USAID and the work that we do. And we are delighted to have you here. Thank you.