White House
22 April 2009
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| President Obama in Newton Iowa, 22 Apr 2009 |
On a day designated for promoting environmental well-being, President Obama said the U.S. should stop being the world's leading importer of oil, and become the leading exporter of clean energy.
"So on this Earth Day, it is time for us to lay a new foundation for economic growth by beginning a new era of energy exploration in America," said President Obama.
Mr. Obama promoted his environmental agenda on a visit to the city of Newton, Iowa. The Maytag appliance factory in Newton closed in 2007, leaving hundreds of people unemployed. But with government help, a new company took over the factory and began making equipment for wind power, putting about 140 people to work.
The president toured the factory and promoted his plans to channel more investments to companies, like the one in Newton, that are involved in producing alternatives to fossil fuels.
Mr. Obama says his energy policy will eventually create millions of jobs in producing clean energy.
The president also says he will meet next week with representatives of the world's major economies to discuss ways to address the energy crisis. They will be in Washington for a forum on energy and climate.
"Truth is, the United States has been slow to participate in this kind of a process, working with other nations, but those days are over now," said Mr. Obama. "We are ready to engage, and we are asking other nations to join us in tackling this challenge together."
While Mr. Obama was in Iowa, his administration was showcasing American-made alternative-fuel vehicles, which could be added to the White House fleet. Among them was an electricity-powered van, which might one day be used to deliver the nation's mail.