Clinton helps launch new think tank

06/27/2007

WASHINGTON (CNN) – New York Senator and presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton stressed the need to rebuild alliances abroad and bring troops home from Iraq in a speech on Wednesday at the official launch of a new think tank, the Center for a New American Security.

“Every challenge we face begins with the biggest challenge,” Clinton said. “Restoring our leadership by once again valuing alliances, respecting our values and understanding that American strength is more than just the show of force.”

Clinton, who was introduced by former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, criticized the Bush administration for keeping open the terrorist detention center at Guantanamo Bay, saying that it “weakens” America’s moral standing in the world and harms national security.

The Center for a New American Security, which is located in Washington, will be dedicated to “advancing a strong, centrist national security strategy.”