The Travel Industry Association (TIA) applauded President-elect Obama's announcement of his top-level foreign policy and national security nominees. Roger Dow, president and CEO of the TIA, issued a statement on the matter.
"Protecting the homeland while strengthening America's economy and image in the world is one of the great challenges of our time," he said. "TIA stands ready to work with President-elect Obama and his team to leverage travel to create jobs and economic growth and strengthen America's image abroad."
"Senator Clinton, Secretary Gates and Dr. Susan Rice all recognize the need for more robust U.S. public diplomacy efforts, and people-to-people diplomacy is one of our country's most effective tools for winning hearts and minds throughout the world," Dow continued. "Whether it is for business, leisure or education, the travel experience is unique in its ability to shape public opinion. Studies show that those who have visited the United States are 74 percent more likely to have a favorable image of the country and its policies in the world."
"We are encouraged with the nomination of Governor Napolitano to head the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)," he added. "Governor Napolitano knows firsthand how to strike the right balance between security and prosperity at our nation's borders. We are confident that Governor Napolitano can improve upon the progress made by the Department of Homeland Security to date, and we look forward to working with her to ensure that our country strengthens its security and attractiveness to foreign visitors.”
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