OK but I'm not 100% sure that's not a bit like questioning a quote from a lawyer, from a position taken in support of a client.
It could certainly be interpreted as Dr. Rice's personal viewpoint, but there's an exchange which IMHO indicates otherwise:
The exchange: (Starting with Senator Lugar's question, continuing)
"I cannot think of a stronger administration statement in support of the Law of the Sea Convention. Should I assume that the president would like to see this convention passed as soon as possible?"
"RICE: He would certainly like to see it pass as soon as possible."
Does that sound to you, like a representative of the United States President, advocating for his policy?
Or a politician expressing a personal view?
I'm a tiny bit more inclined to think the former.
(tho I confess some bias)