Iowa State Capitol Building
Des Moines, Iowa

ADMINISTRATOR GREEN: Thank you, Governor Reynolds, colleagues from the delegations of Iowa State Legislature and Congress, members of the diplomatic corps, friends, partners, and all those who share the passion for advancing food security both here in the U.S. and all around the world. As the Administrator for U.S. Agency for International Development, I want to thank Ambassador Quinn for his continued pursuit to end global hunger, and I'd like to acknowledge the esteemed World Food Prize Laureates who are here tonight. I have the privilege of relaying a quick message of congratulations to Dr. Adesina:

"Dear Dr. Adesina, Congratulations on winning the 2017 World Food Prize. Your devotion to the cause of fighting global hunger is admirable, and deeply needed. As our global food system is stretched, and the need to feed more people grows, agricultural transformation will require persistence from leaders like you in driving change and capitalizing on public and private sector expertise.

Dr. Adesina, your leadership embodies the American virtues of hard work and self-determination. From your upbringing in challenging circumstances to your academic training at Purdue University, your life experience and dedication inspires many people around the world.

On behalf of President Donald Trump, I extend my heartfelt congratulations as you receive this important award. The United States is and remains committed to food security, and we will continue to work with leaders like you to find innovative ways to end global hunger.

Thank you for your commitment and contributions to make the world a better place. Sincerely, Michael R. Pence, Vice President of the United States of America."

Congratulations!