By Antony J. Blinken
Jimmy Carter was a United States President, a U.S. Navy veteran, a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, and a humanitarian who dedicated his life to promoting peace, democracy, and human rights.
Throughout decades of public service, President Carter embodied integrity, compassion, and a commitment to advancing the freedom, security, and welfare of others.
He channeled that spirit in his foreign policy, from negotiating the return of the Panama Canal to its host nation, to developing arms control agreements with the Soviet Union. And he brought it to his every exchange and conversation, from heads of state to ordinary citizens.
He understood that the fates of Americans werebound up with those of people in other countries, so he was early to recognize that protecting our shared planet and promoting global public health were vital national security interests.
President Carter also showed us what can be achieved through tireless and principled diplomacy, mediating a landmark deal with Israel and Egypt that helped forge peace between two nations that had spent decades at war. His efforts are an important reminder of what’s possible, especially amidst renewed conflict and suffering in the region.
Even after he left office, President Carter never stopped pursuing peace and advancing human rights, in ways big and small, often with his wife and partner of 77 years, Rosalynn, who passed away last year.
For decades, they worked side-by-side, whether they were picking up hammers to help build homes for families in need, or leading efforts through the Carter Center to eradicate disease, resolve armed conflict, monitor elections, and promote democracy.
A man of faith, President Carter once said that “our greatest blessings come when we are able to improve the lives of others.” By that measure and so many others, President Carter lived a blessed life.
Antony J. Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State
