WASHINGTON - On Wednesday, Dec. 7, the U.S. Agency for International Development Administrator Gayle Smith will speak at the Center for Global Development about how USAID is better positioned today than ever before to meet the challenges facing global development and how it is working to deliver transformative impact around the world. Following her remarks, she will join CGD President Nancy Birdsall for a conversation about global development.

View video of Administrator Gayle Smith's remarks at the Center for Global Development

Over the last 8 years, President Obama's signature development initiatives have reduced poverty, malnutrition, and mortality, all while spurring entrepreneurship and innovation, empowering women and girls, and helping to build more stable, accountable, and inclusive partners for the United States. Whether it's combating hunger, preventing the spread of deadly diseases, or increasing access to education and clean energy, USAID is achieving real results that change people's lives for the better - despite the often harsh realities of the sharp-edged world we live in.

For 55 years, USAID has led our nation's efforts to advance dignity and prosperity around the world, not only as an expression of core American values but also in pursuit of U.S. national security and economic interests. In more than 100 countries, USAID works to foster inclusive economic growth, save lives, strengthen democratic governance, and promote long-term stability. From ending extreme poverty to meeting urgent humanitarian needs whenever and wherever a disaster strikes, USAID is on the front lines of many of today's greatest global challenges.

Journalists interested in covering the event should rsvp to Ben Edwards at beedwards@usaid.gov. The event will also be livestreamed here.