Democracies in the making

The editorial "Telling America's Story," March 23, is right on target. For the past 40 years the United States Information Agency (USIA) has helped convince foreign citizens that a democratic system works.

Over the past three years, we have seen a new world of freedom emerge; and where democratic principles have been adopted, we are helping foreign citizens and leaders create the institutions which embody those principles.

During this pivotal period of development, the US cannot afford to ignore a crucial opportunity to help foreign citizens understand why democracy works and how to make it work for them.

The editorial is right. The US must continue to share its democracy-building blueprints, tools, and expertise with other nations that look to America for democratic know-how. Henry E. Catto, Washington Director, The United States Information Agency

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