Tommy Thompson, U.S. Secretary for Health and Human Services

U.N. Special Session on Children, May 8th, 2002.

"The United States remains committed because the progress towards the global elimination of iodine deficiency offers an important initial success for many developing countries in food fortification. Universal salt iodization programs can be a basis for fortification of other commonly consumed foods and condiments to help eliminate other micronutrient deficiencies that profoundly affect the health, development, and productivity of populations.

My government applauds the launch of a Network for Sustained Elimination of Iodine Deficiency. My own department is proud to be a member of the Network. This historic partnership will help achieve and sustain the global progress toward the elimination of iodine deficiency. The United States is proud of our past success and collaboration. We look forward to working in partnership to eliminate the scourge of iodine deficiency on a global scale...

We are so very proud to partner with you. I thank you personally for your commitment and for your wonderful work. And with your help and partnership we will win this battle and we will help children all over the world."