Today, I write to ask that you take specific steps toward the elimination of cluster bombs which today threaten 400 million people across more than 30 countries, including Iraq and Afghanistan. We are grateful that earlier this year you signed a law permanently banning nearly all cluster bomb exports from the United States. But there are more important steps you must take now. Over 20 countries have now signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions and the United States should be one of them. I urge you to sign the Convention and move forcefully to see that it is ratified by the U.S. Senate. Additionally, I ask that you ensure that U.S.-made cluster munitions are not used in or near civilian populated areas, whether by the U.S. or our allies. The use of cluster munitions in Lebanon, Kosovo, Iraq, and other countries, vividly illustrates the horrific consequences of the weapon when used in civilian inhabited areas. I know that many countries are not waiting for the Convention on Cluster Munitions to be ratified but are already getting rid of their arsenals of cluster munitions. Governments of nearly 80 countries gathered in Berlin in June 2008 to discuss how best to destroy their stockpiles. In order to limit casualties inflicted by unexploded cluster duds, the U.S. should increase assistance programs focused on unexploded ordnance clearance. Many cluster-affected countries are simply cannot afford to clear land and educate their populations to the risks posed by unexploded cluster munitions. The U.S. responsibility to help clear munitions is especially clear and urgent in countries where U.S. armed forces have used cluster munitions. As a person of faith, I ask that you take these important steps to protect innocent lives around the world.