(VOVworld) - New Secretary of State John Kerry has said increased investment in external relations will bring in long-term interests for the US.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry delivers remarks at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia. (Photo: U.S. State Department)

In his maiden speech as America's top diplomat at the University of Virginia on Wednesday, Mr. Kerry said enhancement of international cooperation, especially with developing economies and opening new markets for US companies will not only boost prosperity, generate jobs for American citizens, but also ensure the national security. Mr. Kerry said the greatest challenge to America’s foreign policy today is in the hands not of diplomats, but of policymakers in Congress. The Secretary of State warned that if the Congress doesn’t take any action soon to avoid the spending cuts to diplomacy in this fiscal year, it’ll greatly influence the country’s diplomatic efforts. The 85 billion USD cut is scheduled to take place as of March 1^st. He affirmed that the US will continue to increase aid for foreign countries as the move will help prevent risks to the national security.