The Obama administration on Monday proposed $2.4 billion in financial aid to Pakistan for the fiscal year 2013. Of this, $2.2 billion is in assistance to strengthen democratic and civil institutions that provide a bulwark against extremism and support joint security and counter-terrorism efforts.

It is true that the Act makes clear Congress wants the United States “to use broadcasting to support freedom and democracy in a rapidly changing international environment.” But, interestingly, that wording is contained in the last of five “findings and declarations” approved by Congress.

The Broadcasting Board of Governors released their strategy supporting their 2013 budget request today. The plan is far ranging and addresses many of the major challenges facing America’s international broadcasting today directly and several more indirectly. As good as the plan reads, the devil, as they say, is in the details.

A year after the demonstrations, what has not changed are Egyptians' views of the US. Only 5 per cent held a favourable view of the US, pointing to American bias towards Israel and meddling in Arab affairs as the main reasons for their negative views, with 89 per cent saying that US policies do not "contribute to peace and stability in the Arab World".

The FY 2013 Budget elevates America’s global leadership through diplomacy and development. “Leading through civilian power saves lives and money. With the right tools, training, and leadership, our diplomats and development experts can defuse crises before they explode and create new opportunities for economic growth.”

The deep connection engendered by music and the arts helps bridge barriers of languages and cultural traditions. A belief in the value of sharing our nation's music and arts is the motivating factor behind an organization that now has its home in St. Louis - American Voices.

Mr. Xi’s journey to America’s heartland underscores the importance of the public dimension of U.S-China diplomacy. Since China’s “soft power” efforts have largely been bi-coastal, Mr. Xi’s trip to the fly-over country is particularly noteworthy. Let’s hope that Mr. Xi’s Iowa visit will help broaden and enrich the Chinese imagination of America.