PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE I’d like to extend my deepest condolences to all those affected by the massive explosion at the port of Beirut today. We are closely monitoring and stand ready to assist the people of Lebanon as they recover from this tragedy. Our team in Beirut has reported to me the extensive damage to a …
Read More» The March 8th agreement included an important pledge to avoid political interference in the judicial process, and that pledge has no timeline. That was the pledge that the parties took that pertains to the past, the present and the future.
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Iran’s nuclear, ballistic missile, and military programs pose a grave threat to international peace and security. To address these threats, I am announcing a major expansion of the scope of State Department-administered Iran metals-related sanctions. Today, the State Department is identifying 22 specific materials used in connection with Iran’s nuclear, military, or ballistic …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States welcomes today’s announcement from the European Union’s High Representative Josep Borrell regarding the body’s first designations under its cyber sanctions framework. The United States and the EU share a vision for an open, interoperable, reliable and secure cyberspace, and for responsible behavior on the international stage. Destructive, disruptive, or otherwise …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE DIRKSEN SENATE OFFICE BUILDING WASHINGTON, DC SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you very much. Today I’m here to present the – and testify about the President’s 2021 Budget. It requests nearly $41 billion for the State Department and USAID, enabling both agencies to protect U.S. citizens, increase American prosperity, and advance the development of democratic societies. And critically, …
Read More» SPECIAL BRIEFING MICHAEL G. KOZAK, ACTING ASSISTANT SECRETARY BUREAU OF WESTERN HEMISPHERE AFFAIRS VIA TELECONFERENCE MR BROWN: Hey. Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for joining us for this on-the-record briefing with Acting Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs Ambassador Michael Kozak. Ambassador Kozak will discuss the administration’s actions that have deepened democracy in the Western …
Read More» NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE: Gregory Autry, of California, to be Chief Financial Officer, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, vice Jeffrey DeWit, resigned. Mark C. Christie, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for a term expiring June 30, 2025, vice Bernard L. McNamee, term expired. Allison Clements, of Ohio, …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On July 29, the Department of State released a report to Congress pursuant to the Justice for Uncompensated Survivors Today (JUST) Act of 2017, which was adopted by Congress with broad, bipartisan support and signed into law by President Trump in May 2018. The JUST Act Report highlights the important actions taken by countries to provide restitution of or …
Read More» James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 5:20 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Today my administration has taken a momentous step toward achieving American pharmaceutical independence — a very, very big, big step — a focus of our campaign to bring America’s critical supply chains and medical manufacturing back to the USA. We’ve …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, I am announcing the designation of former Venezuelan Minister of Electric Power and President of Corpoelec, Luis Alfredo Motta Dominguez, and former Venezuelan Deputy Minister of Finance, Investment, and Strategic Alliances for the Ministry of Electric Power and Director of Procurement of Corpoelec, Eustiquio Jose Lugo Gomez. They have been designated for accepting monetary benefits, including bribes and kickbacks, in exchange for awarding …
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Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan joined Minister of Health Ekaterine Tikaradze and representatives of the National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) to mark World Hepatitis Day. Viral hepatitis remains a major global health threat, frequently labeled as a “silent epidemic”. Here in Georgia, the NCDC, with the support of the U.S. Centers for Disease …
Read More» The following is attributable to Principal Deputy Spokesperson Cale Brown: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia. Secretary Pompeo and Prime Minister Gakharia discussed the importance of the U.S. Georgia partnership and our close coordination in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Secretary Pompeo also highlighted the importance of …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, the U.S. Department of State celebrates its 231st anniversary as the nation’s first executive agency. This milestone is an opportunity to reflect on the essential role of U.S. diplomacy in advancing the interests, security, and economic prosperity of the American people. I commend the State Department team for their extraordinary work to promote and …
Read More» Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan discussed the role of diplomats in responding to international crisis such as COVID-19 with new and current Georgian Diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Mikaladze Institute. Ambassador Degnan spoke about the new realities in diplomacy today and shared her reflections as a diplomat responding to international crises. During her virtual …
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Ambassador Degnan attends opening ceremony of USAID-supported Ken Walker University Clinic for Medical Rehabilitation (July 24) Today, U.S. Ambassador to Georgia Kelly C. Degnan joined Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Gakharia and Minister of Internally Displaced Persons from Occupied Territories, Health, Labor, and Social Affairs Ekaterine Tikaradze to attend the opening of the Ken Walker University …
Read More» Communist China and the Free World’s Future (July 23) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE YORBA LINDA, CALIFORNIA THE RICHARD NIXON PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM GOVERNOR WILSON: Well, thank you very much, Chris. Most generous. I’m not sure your grandfather would have recognized me. I have the great pleasure – in addition to welcoming all of you to the Nixon birthplace and …
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U.S. rejects China’s ‘unlawful’ claims in South China Sea (July 22) The United States is standing with its Southeast Asian partners and allies to reject the People’s Republic of China’s unlawful claims in the South China Sea . U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo, in a July 13 statement , said most of the PRC’s maritime claims are “completely unlawful” and …
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U.S. Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s remarks to the media after the meeting with Public Defender Nino Lomjaria (July 21) Ambassador Degnan: Gamarjobat! I had a truly inspiring meeting with Public Defender and her team. The work they are doing here, the very important monitoring role that this office provides, is at the very heart of …
Read More» Secretary Pompeo Interview Clip: Chinese Communist Party Failed COVID-19 Obligations (July 20)
Read More» Secretary Pompeo Speech Clip – South China Sea is not China’s Maritime Empire (July 20)
Read More» Secretary Pompeo Speech Clip – Russia and China Block Humanitarian Aid to Syria (July 20)
Read More» Readout from the Vice President’s Governors Briefing on COVID-19 Response & Best Practices (July 20) Today, Vice President Mike Pence led a discussion with the chief executives of approximately 50 States, territories, and the city of Washington, DC, and the White House Coronavirus Task Force to discuss local, State, and Federal Coronavirus response and …
Read More» Presidential Message on Space Exploration Day, 2020 (July 20) Today, our Nation celebrates the essential role that American space exploration plays in the history and character of our country. We honor our brave astronauts and space industry professionals—both past and present—and we pledge to continue to lead the world in pioneering deeper into space, …
Read More» Public Designation of Russian National Ramzan Kadyrov Due to Involvement in Gross Violations of Human Rights (July 20) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, the Department of State is publicly designating Ramzan Kadyrov, head of the Chechen Republic of the Russian Federation, under Section 7031(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2020. This designation …
Read More» U.S. Support for Democracy, Good Governance, and Human Rights in the Global Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic (July 20) “Authoritarian regimes are poorly designed to deal with the kind of crisis that this pandemic has engendered. Democracies, where we are free to critique and comment … these are the kinds of places where scientists and freedom …
Read More» Assad Regime’s Parliamentary Elections (July 20) MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON Yesterday, the Assad regime held so-called Parliamentary Elections in Syria. Bashar Al Assad is seeking to present this dubious election as a success against alleged Western plotting, but in reality it is simply another in a long line of Assad’s stage-managed, unfree votes in which the Syrian people have …
Read More» Terrorist Attack near Azaz, Syria (July 20) MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON The United States strongly condemns the terrorist attack near a marketplace in Sudju, near Azaz and the Bab al Salam crossing. Initial reports indicate the attack killed eight and injured over 80, some of whom are in critical condition. We extend our deepest sympathies to all those harmed …
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China’s economic blitzkrieg (July 20) The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) exploited global business norms to drive its economic rise. Now the CCP is using its economic power to gain leverage over nations and businesses and limit freedoms around the world. In July 16 remarks in Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S. Attorney General William Barr detailed how the CCP is …
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U.S. Government donates a new firetruck to support Georgia in combating wildfires (July 19) Wildfires have become an increasingly pressing issue for Georgia, posing a threat to the property and lives of Georgian citizens. To help the local government combat wildfires, the U.S. Government has donated a $232,170 firetruck, equipped with four-wheel drive and …
Read More» Ambassador Degnan congratulates graduates of Rondeli Foundation’s National Security and Public Policy training program (July 17) Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan made opening remarks at the Rondeli Foundation’s graduation ceremony for its National Security and Public Policy training program. The Ambassador was honored to personally congratulate the graduates of the esteemed program. Supported by …
Read More» Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan attends forum on “Impartial Polling for Developing Citizen-Responsive Democratic Governance in Georgia” (July 17) Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan gave opening remarks at the launch of “Impartial Polling for Developing Citizen-Responsive Democratic Governance in Georgia,” a forum for promoting non-partisan public opinion polling as a key component of Georgia’s democratic development. A …
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Ambassador Degnan attends capstone exercise for two Georgian interns at Lugar Center (July 17) Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan joined NCDC Director Dr. Amiran Gamkrelidze and Deputy Director Dr. Paata Imnadaze to attend the graduation ceremony and Internship Capstone Exercise for two Georgian students participating in the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAID) …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s first visit to Adjara Region (July 16) On her first visit to the city of Batumi, Ambassador Degnan met with educators, youth, journalists, civil society leaders, and elected officials. Her visit demonstrated the breadth and depth of the strong bond between the United States and Adjara, with ties in education, tourism, …
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Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan makes the first visit to Georgia’s Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region (July 13) This week, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan toured Georgia’s Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti region for the first time. The purpose of the Ambassador’s visit was to explore this magnificent region of the country and to learn more about its economic potential. She …
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Pompeo urges U.N. to extend arms embargo on Iran’s regime (July 9) U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo is urging the United Nations Security Council to extend an arms embargo against Iran, warning that the regime poses a continuing threat to international peace and security. Pompeo told a June 30 meeting of the …
Read More» UN Special Rapporteur Gives More Cause to Distrust UN Human Rights Mechanisms (July 9) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE We reject the report and opinions released today by UN Special Rapporteur Callamard related to the U.S. strike that killed Islamic Republic Guard Corps Qods Force commander Qassem Soleimani. Ms. Callamard’s conclusions are spurious. The strike that killed General Soleimani was in …
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NASA names a building for a pioneering African American (July 8) NASA has renamed its Washington headquarters to honor Mary W. Jackson, the first female African American engineer to work for the agency. Jackson was among four African American women recently awarded Congressional Gold Medals for their contributions to early space flight. Jackson and her colleagues were also …
Read More» Five Years of Injustice Following China’s 709 Crackdown (July 8) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On July 9, five years ago the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) launched a nationwide offensive targeting hundreds of defense lawyers and human rights defenders for detention, interrogation, and politically motivated criminal charges. The “709” crackdown, named for the date it began on July 9, 2015, …
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Ambassador Degnan’s visit in Shida Kartli (July 7) Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan traveled to Georgia’s Shida Kartli region to participate in a U.S. Government-supported facility’s groundbreaking ceremony, visit a newly rehabilitated kindergarten, and join a round table discussion with women activists living near the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL). The Ambassador’s first stop was …
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U.S. Government supports Kombucha production business near the Administrative Boundary Line (July 7) Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan participated in the groundbreaking ceremony of a new Kombucha production facility in the village of Karapila, located in the Kaspi municipality of Georgia’s Shida Kartli region. The new facility is supported by USAID and Startup Georgia …
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15 achievements of the President’s Malaria Initiative (July 7) Fifteen years ago, the pediatric ward at the national hospital in Kigali, Rwanda, overflowed with children suffering from malaria, the leading cause of illness and death in the country. Pediatrician Dr. Lisine Tuyisenge remembers anemic babies doubled up in beds and even sick children on …
Read More» Marking The Birth Of Our Great Nation (July 4) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE In 1776 on this day, our founding fathers created, in Abraham Lincoln’s words, “a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” For the first time in human history, a nation was brought into being recognizing, …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump at the 2020 Salute to America (July 4) July 4, 2020 6:50 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Wow. Are you having a good time? (Applause.) Members of Congress, members of my cabinet, and my fellow Americans: The First Lady and I are delighted to welcome you to the second annual Salute …
Read More» Special Representative for Iran and Senior Advisor to the Secretary Brian Hook Visits Israel for Consultations on Iran (July 1) Special Representative for Iran and Senior Advisor to the Secretary of State Brian Hook held discussions on Iran with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi in Jerusalem, Israel on …
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Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan attended the 2020 Democracy Conference (July 1) Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan gave opening remarks at the 2020 Democracy Conference organized by the Georgian Institute of Politics to speak about the important role the United States plays in supporting Georgia’s democratization. The United States is deeply committed to Georgia’s democratic …
Read More» The United States Announces Additional Humanitarian Assistance for the Syrian People (June 30) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE At today’s fourth Brussels Conference on “Supporting the Future of Syria and the Region,” hosted by the European Union, Special Representative for Syria Engagement Ambassador James Jeffrey announced more than $696 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the people …
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U.S. works with partners to counter China’s aggressive behavior (June 30) The U.S. is committed to working with international partners to uphold core values and freedoms. According to a new report published by the White House with input from 20 departments and agencies, the U.S. seeks to protect the widely accepted international order against …
Read More» Statement on the Passage of Georgian Constitutional Reform (June 29) By Morgan Ortagus Office of the Spokesperson The United States applauds Georgia’s historic adoption of constitutional amendments that establish a more proportional electoral system. Enacted as a result of the important March 8 agreement among a majority of political parties, they will help promote greater …
Read More» Special Representative for Iran and Senior Advisor to Secretary Brian Hook visits the United Arab Emirates for Consultations on Iran (June 28) United States Special Representative for Iran and Senior Advisor to the Secretary Brian Hook visited the United Arab Emirates June 27-28, 2020. During the visit, Special Representative Hook met with His Highness Minister …
Read More» The Chinese Communist Party’s Ideology and Global Ambitions (June 26) Well, thank you Governor. That was an extraordinarily kind introduction and for thinking of Kayla and her parents. We had them at the State of the Union. That was a very special occasion for the President and for all of us as Americans. What happened …
Read More» International Day in Support of Victims of Torture (June 26) On the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, we honor and support victims and survivors throughout the world. We observe this day on the anniversary of the date on which the UN Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment …
Read More» U.S. Department of State Imposes Visa Restrictions on Chinese Communist Party Officials for Undermining Hong Kong’s High Degree of Autonomy and Restricting Human Rights (June 26) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 26, 2020 President Trump promised to punish the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) officials who were responsible for eviscerating Hong Kong’s freedoms. Today, we are taking action …
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Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan at opening of orphanage for children with severe disabilities in Tbilisi (June 25) Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan helped open a newly-constructed small group home – an orphanage for children with severe disabilities in Tbilisi. Thanks to this project, children with disabilities will live in a home type environment and receive …
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Pompeo: U.S. ‘undaunted in our pursuit of bringing terrorists to justice’ (June 25) The United States is working with countries around the world to combat terrorism through multilateral engagement and international organizations. “No administration has forged closer ties in our hemisphere and alliances working on important problems like counterterrorism,” said Secretary of State Michael …
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President Trump orders police reforms (June 25) President Trump has issued an executive order instituting nationwide police reforms to keep communities safe and ensure equal justice and treatment for all Americans. The Executive Order on Safe Policing for Safe Communities mandates that police departments will receive accredited training on de-escalation, use of force and community engagement. Additionally, a database will track police …
Read More» At the 2020 Trafficking in Persons Report Launch Ceremony (June 25) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE TREATY ROOM WASHINGTON, D.C. JUNE 25, 2020 AMBASSADOR RICHMOND: Good afternoon, and welcome to the TIP Report rollout for 2020. My name’s John Richmond, and I have the honor of serving the team at the Trafficking in Persons Office at the Department of State. I’m …
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The 70th Anniversary of the Korean War (June 25) June 25th marks the 70th anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War. The United States will never forget those from the United States, the Republic of Korea (ROK), and other countries under the United Nations Command who laid down their lives in the name of …
Read More» Secretary Michael R. Pompeo At a Press Availability on the Release of the 2019 Country Reports on Terrorism (June 24) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE PRESS BRIEFING ROOM WASHINGTON, D.C. SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning, everyone. Good to be with you all today. I want to start my remarks, as I often do, on matters relating to China. As many of …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s Remarks to Media per Meeting with Mayor Kakhi Kaladze (June 22) Q-n about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: Thank you. I had a very good meeting with Mayor Kaladze today. It was pleasure to finally have a chance to sit down and talk about some of the great cooperation that we …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s Remarks to Media per Meeting with Economy Minister Natia Turnava (June 22) Q-n about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I had a very substantive meeting with the Minister. We have so many areas of cooperation that we are already working on to contribute to Georgia’s economic development. Our goal is to …
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U.S. Embassy hands over digital equipment to the Ministry of Health of Georgia (June 22) U.S. Embassy Tbilisi’s Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC) handed over 89 computers and printers to the Ministry of IDPs from the Occupied Territories, Labor, Health, and Social Affairs of Georgia in support of the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) elimination program, …
Read More» Proclamation Suspending Entry of Aliens Who Present a Risk to the U.S. Labor Market Following the Coronavirus Outbreak (June 22) The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) has significantly disrupted Americans’ livelihoods. Since March 2020, United States businesses and their workers have faced extensive disruptions while undertaking certain public health measures necessary to flatten the curve …
Read More» On the Occasion of World Refugee Day (June 20) World Refugee Day is an opportunity to recognize the courage and the struggles of millions of refugees who have fled their homes due to persecution and conflict. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the number of those forcibly displaced worldwide rose …
Read More» IAEA Board of Governors Adopts Resolution, Calls on Iran To Cooperate Without Further Delay (June 19) Today, the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) adopted a resolution calling on Iran to provide IAEA inspectors the information and access they have requested and that Iran is obligated to provide. Iran’s denial …
Read More» Sustaining U.S. Humanitarian Assistance Leadership in Response to COVID-19 (June 19) The United States has been, and continues to be, the undisputed leader in global foreign assistance, and our leadership in response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues that record of generosity. Today, we’re providing approximately $93 million in new humanitarian assistance to bolster our …
Read More» Briefing with Director of U.S. Foreign Assistance Resources James L. Richardson and Acting Assistant Secretary for Population, Refugees and Migration Carol O’Connell On Sustaining U.S. Humanitarian Assistance Leadership in Response to COVID-19 (June 19) MR BROWN: Hey, good afternoon, everyone. Thanks for dialing in. Today’s announcement, which you may have seen in the Secretary’s statement …
Read More» Father’s Day, 2020 (June 19) Fathers are instrumental in helping prepare children for life, instilling in them the values essential to one day becoming responsible, grounded, and successful adults. As a Nation, we are grateful to the men dedicated to raising well‑rounded children. On Father’s Day, we honor and celebrate our fathers and father …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan visits Kakheti (June 16) Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan made another trip out of Tbilisi to get to know Georgia’s unique regions. In Telavi, the Ambassador met with Telavi Mayor Shota Nareklishvili and Kakheti Governor Irakli Kadagishvili to discuss the region’s plans for tourism development, economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, …
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Ambassador Degnan attends closing ceremony of GDP-RSM Certification Exercise at Vaziani (June 15) Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan had the honor of attending a ceremony marking the completion of the Certification Exercise for the Georgia Deployment Program – Resolute Support Mission (GDP-RSM). This exercise is another bright point in the more than 10-year history of this …
Read More» The Conviction of U.S. Citizen Paul Whelan in Russia (June 15) The United States is outraged by the decision of a Russian court today to convict U.S. citizen Paul Whelan after a secret trial, with secret evidence, and without appropriate allowances for defense witnesses. We have serious concerns that Mr. Whelan was deprived of …
Read More» The United States Condemns Maduro’s Latest Step to Rig the Next Venezuelan Election (June 15) Free elections are the path out of Venezuela’s deep political crisis. Unfortunately, on June 12, the Maduro regime-controlled Supreme Court continued to manipulate the Venezuelan Constitution by illegally naming a new, regime-aligned National Electoral Council (CNE). Venezuelans deserve an …
Read More» Building the Movement: America’s Youth Celebrate 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage (June 15) First Lady Melania Trump is excited to announce Building the Movement: America’s Youth Celebrate 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage, an exhibit honoring the centennial anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment, which gave American women the right to vote. The exhibit will …
Read More» Chinese Communist Party Exploits COVID-19 Pandemic (June 12)
Read More» Proclamation on Flag Day and National Flag Week, 2020 (June 12) On Flag Day and throughout National Flag Week, we pay tribute to the American flag, the most recognizable symbol of the principles for which our Republic stands. For more than 200 years, the Stars and Stripes has represented liberty, justice, and the rule of law. Recently, as …
Read More» State Department Releases Women, Peace, and Security Implementation Plan (June 11) The United States is leading by example in women’s empowerment on the global stage. Today the Department of State released its Plan to Implement the U.S. Strategy on Women, Peace, and Security . The Strategy focuses on supporting women leaders around the world who make contributions to global security, including by ensuring the Department …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan visits Gori (June 11) Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan had the honor of making her first visit to the city of Gori. The Ambassador met with Gori Mayor Tavzarashvili and Shida Kartli Governor Khojevanishvili to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the city and the region, as well as the devastating effect on local communities of the continued illegal borderization activities along the Administrative Boundary Line and for …
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DCM Rood and Col. Bagley visit the newly renovated clinic in Lamiskana, near ABL (June 11) Today Deputy Chief of Mission Elizabeth Rood and Defense Attache Col. Stephanie Bagley visited a newly renovated health clinic in the village of Lamiskana. Together with Zaza Maridashvili, Deputy Mayor of Kaspi Municipality, Kaspi Sakrebulo Head Davit Leonidze, and Clinic Director …
Read More» Briefing with Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs David Schenker On the U.S.-Iraq Dialogue and Developments in Libya (June 11) MS ORTAGUS: Great, thank you. Welcome back, everybody. It’s our busy day. It’s our third briefing of the day, so thanks to everybody that had the time to dial in. And I’m glad we have …
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Pompeo: No country cares more for religious freedom (June 10) The United States’ commitment to the protection of religious freedom around the world is unwavering. “There is no other nation that cares so deeply about religious freedom,” Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo said. Pompeo and Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom Sam …
Read More» Secretary Michael R. Pompeo at a Press Availability on the Release of the 2019 International Religious Freedom Report (June 10) SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning, everyone. It’s great to be with you all today. I’m here one more time, proudly, to talk about freedom and free societies. And while America is not a perfect nation by …
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Proclamation on National Ocean Month, 2020 Our ocean and coastal waterways are essential to our national security, international trade, maritime commerce, global competitiveness, and transportation. The jobs of more than 3 million Americans depend on our ocean economy, which generates more than $300 billion of economic activity annually. During National Ocean Month, we reaffirm …
Read More» United States Designates Key Iranian Shipping Entities Under Proliferation Authority as Tehran Continues To Expand Proliferation Sensitive Activities (June 8) Today, sanctions against the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) and its Shanghai-based subsidiary, E-Sail Shipping Company Ltd (E-Sail) have come into effect. Six months ago, I announced that the United States would …
Read More» On the Chinese Communist Party’s Obscene Propaganda (June 6) The Chinese Communist Party’s callous exploitation of the tragic death of George Floyd to justify its authoritarian denial of basic human dignity exposes its true colors yet again. As with dictatorships throughout history, no lie is too obscene, so long as it serves the Party’s …
Read More» 120+ countries support probe into origins of COVID-19 (June 5) More than 120 countries from around the world support an investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 outbreak. The probe, coordinated by the World Health Organization (WHO), will be an “impartial, independent and comprehensive evaluation” of the international response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The inquiry …
Read More» Joint Communique by Ministers of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS Small Group (June 4) At the invitation of Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs Luigi Di Maio and U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo, the Foreign Ministers of the Global Coalition to Defeat Daesh/ISIS Small Group met virtually today to reaffirm our shared …
Read More» Secretary Pompeo delivered opening remarks at the Ministerial Meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS’s Small Group (June 4) Secretary Pompeo Shares Remarks during Ministerial Meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS Today, Secretary Pompeo delivered opening remarks at the Ministerial Meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS’s Small Group. Posted by U.S. Department of State on Thursday, June 4, 2020 SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you, Foreign Minister Di Maio. Luigi, …
Read More» Fulfilling the President’s Generous Commitment to Provide Critical Medical Supplies Across the Globe (June 4) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States has been the largest contributor to global health security and humanitarian assistance for more than a half century, saving lives all over the planet. In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have truly mobilized …
Read More» Readout from the Vice President’s Governors Briefing on COVID-19 Response & Recovery (June 3) Today, Vice President Mike Pence led a discussion with the chief executives of approximately 50 States, territories, and the city of Washington, DC, and the White House Coronavirus Task Force to update our Nation’s governors on local, State, and Federal …
Read More» Secretary Pompeo’s Call with Partners on COVID-19 (June 3) The below is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with the Foreign Ministers of Australia, Brazil, India, Israel, and the Republic of Korea. Secretary Pompeo and his counterparts discussed the importance of continued close coordination in response to the …
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Executive Order on Advancing International Religious Freedom (June 2) By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered as follows: Section 1. Policy. (a) Religious freedom, America’s first freedom, is a moral and national security imperative. Religious freedom for all people worldwide is …
Read More» Statement by the President (June 1) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. My fellow Americans: My first and highest duty as President is to defend our great country and the American people. I swore an oath to uphold the laws of our nation, and that is exactly what I will do. All Americans were …
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U.S. Embassy congratulates Georgian Police in Celebrating Police Day (May 31) On May 27, Ambassador Degnan presented a certificate of appreciation to Minister of Internal Affairs Vakhtang Gomelauri to congratulate the Ministry on Police Day and demonstrate the respect and gratitude of the U.S. Embassy for the support and achievements of the Ministry and its …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump After Viewing SpaceX Demonstration Mission 2 Launch (May 30) Kennedy Space Center Cape Canaveral, Florida 3:25 P.M. EDT Q Mr. President, what did you think?THE PRESIDENT: It’s incredible — the technology, the power. I’m so proud of the people at NASA — all the people that worked together, public and …
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USAID Supporting Georgia to Combat COVID, Build Resilience, and Prepare for Economic Recovery (May 29) By Peter Wiebler, USAID/Georgia Mission Director Over nearly 30 years, the United States and Georgia have built a partnership based on shared values, common strategic interests, and the mutual benefits of cooperation. The United States Agency for International Development …
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Iranian regime official authorized police to kill protesters (May 29) A senior Iranian regime official authorized lethal force against peaceful protesters during nationwide demonstrations last November, leading to the killing of many civilians, including children, U.S. officials said. On May 20, U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo announced sanctions against the Iranian regime’s …
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NASA names telescope for pioneering female astronomer (May 29) By Lauren Monsen NASA, the U.S. space agency, will name its next-generation space telescope in honor of Nancy Grace Roman. Roman (1925–2018) was the agency’s first chief astronomer and was dubbed the “Mother of the Hubble Space Telescope ” by her colleagues. She joined the agency in 1959 and created its …
Read More» In Defense of Democracy in Venezuela (May 29) The United States reaffirms our commitment to Venezuela’s legitimate National Assembly and the 100 deputies across all party lines under interim President Guaido’s leadership, who daily face threats and intimidation by the illegitimate former Maduro regime. We strongly condemn the illegitimate former Maduro regime’s most recent …
Read More» U.S. Embassy statement on continued ‘borderization’ activities along the ABL, as well as the disinformation campaign against the Lugar Center (May 27) As the world honors the anniversary of Georgian independence and celebrates Georgia’s success in combating COVID-19, the United States protests ongoing, provocative “borderization” by Russian-led security forces along the administrative boundary lines of …
Read More» Briefing With Special Representative for Iran and Senior Advisor to Secretary Brian Hook And Assistant Secretary for International Security and Nonproliferation Dr. Christopher A. Ford on Keeping the World Safe from Iran’s Nuclear Program (May 27) MS ORTAGUS: Thank you so much, and thanks, everybody, for the second call of the day late in …
Read More» Keeping the World Safe from Iran’s Nuclear Program (May 27) Today, I am announcing the end of the sanctions waiver covering all remaining JCPOA-originating nuclear projects in Iran – the Arak reactor conversion, the provision of enriched uranium for the Tehran Research Reactor, and the export of Iran’s spent and scrap research reactor fuel. …
Read More» Ministerial Meeting of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS’s Small Group (May 27) U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo looks forward to co-hosting, with Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio, a virtual meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS on June 4 to review next steps in the …
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Hon. Paul Packer, Chairman of the United States Commission For the Preservation of America’s Heritage Abroad congratulates Georgians on Independence Day (May 26) Greetings from New York. I am Paul Packer, Chairman of the United States Commission for the Preservation of America’s Heritage Abroad. Scripture tells us to love the stranger, for once we …
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Source: Embassy of Georgia in US
Read More» Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan offers heartfelt congratulations to the people of Georgia on the 102nd anniversary of Georgian Independence (May 26) On behalf of the United States Embassy, I am pleased today to offer my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Georgia on your Independence Day. Georgia and the United States share a …
Read More» Georgia National Day (May 26) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Georgia as you celebrate your Independence Day. The United States and Georgia have a strong strategic partnership built upon shared values and a deep love of freedom, independence, and unity. The United States remains …
Read More» This Week in Iran Policy (May 22) “Our maximum pressure campaign also entails demanding that the regime in Tehran treat its own people with respect and dignity. Today, the United States announces that it is imposing sanctions on 12 Iranian individuals and entities under human rights authorities.” -Secretary of State Michael Pompeo, Podium Briefing, …
Read More» Iran’s Assassinations and Terrorist Activity Abroad (May 22) “The Iranian regime also continues to export cruelty outside its own borders. Last week, an Iranian dissident, Massoud Molavi, was assassinated in Istanbul after he defected to Turkey from Iran. The killing of Mr. Molavi is yet another tragic example in a long string of suspected …
Read More» Briefing With Assistant Secretary for African Affairs Tibor Nagy on U.S. Support for Combating COVID-19 in Sub-Saharan Africa (May 21) MR BROWN: Thank you. Good morning, everyone. Welcome to this on-the-record briefing with our Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of African Affairs Tibor Nagy, who has one of the very best names in the …
Read More» Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan’s opening remarks during her virtual press conference (May 20) Gamarjoba, and thank you for joining us today for this virtual press conference. I’m pleased to speak to you after my first 3 months in Georgia about the relationship between our two countries and the assistance the United States is providing, especially …
Read More» The United States Designates Company Providing Services for Iranian Airline Mahan Air’s Operations in China (May 19) The People’s Republic of China is one of the rapidly dwindling number of countries that welcomes Mahan Air, which ferries weapons and terrorists around the world for the Islamic Republic of Iran. Such cooperation has consequences. Today, …
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How to prevent another failure of democracy in Venezuela (May 18) It’s been two years since the illegitimate election of Nicolás Maduro, during which time Venezuela has plunged into even greater turmoil and suffering. Within five days of the May 20, 2018, election, 46 countries declared the results illegitimate, according to the Electoral Integrity Project . The …
Read More» Media Advisory – Ambassador Degnan’s Virtual Press Conference EVENT: U.S. Embassy Tbilisi is pleased to invite you to a live, virtual press conference primarily focused on U.S. response to COVID-19 in Georgia, with Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 20 from 14:00-15:00. It will begin promptly at 1400 with …
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U.S. Embassy donates Test Kits and Personal Protection Equipment to the Ministry of Health of Georgia (May 15) Today Ambassador Degnan joined Minister Tikaradze in welcoming the arrival of high caliber testing equipment and materials to conduct 4,000 gold-standard RT-PCR tests, as well as almost $20,000 in personal protective equipment, donated by the U.S. …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump on Vaccine Development (May 15) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you very much. It’s very hot today. Please, sit down. This is going to be a very hot one, and we apologize to everybody out there that’s going to suffer through it. But you know what? It’s better …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s virtual reunion with WiSci participants (May 14) On May 14, Ambassador Degnan kicked off the first virtual Women in Science (WiSci) alumni reunion bringing together students from Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, and the United States. The U.S. Embassy has proudly supported Georgian high school girls’ engagement in the international STEM summer camp for …
Read More» Briefing With Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback On COVID-19 Impact on Religious Minorities (May 14) MS ORTAGUS: Thank you very much and good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for joining us for this on-the-record briefing to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on religious minorities throughout the world. Just a reminder that this call is …
Read More» Transatlantic Cooperation on COVID-19 (May 12) As President Trump has said, the United States is working with our friends and partners around the world to coordinate our efforts on stopping the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The United States values our cooperation with allies and partners in combatting the pandemic and in planning for …
Read More» The United States Has Built the World’s Leading Coronavirus Testing System (May 11) We built the most advanced and robust testing anywhere in the world, and we’ve done more testing than any country anywhere in the world. President Donald J. Trump PROVIDING TESTING RESOURCES: President Donald J. Trump is working tirelessly to ensure that …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump in a Press Briefing on COVID-19 Testing (May 11) THE PRESIDENT: We’re here today to provide an update on the unprecedented testing capacity developed by the United States — the most advanced and robust testing system anywhere in the world, by far. This afternoon, I’ll also announce new steps that …
Read More» Secretary Pompeo Speech Clip – America’s Commitment to Leading Global Health (May 11)
Read More» Joint Statement by the Facilitators of the Political Dialogue (May 11) The March 8 agreement was a historic achievement by the political forces of Georgia, intended to depolarize Georgia’s political system and create a better environment for the October parliamentary elections following the failure of promised constitutional amendments to move to fully proportional parliamentary elections …
Read More» Leading the World Against Iran’s Threats (May 9) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Two years ago, President Trump announced the bold decision to protect the world from Iran’s violence and the nuclear threats it poses by exiting from the flawed Iran Deal and its façade of security. Since that time, we have built the strongest sanctions in history and prevented …
Read More» Message from Ambassador Kelly Degnan – New U.S. Support for Georgia’s Response to COVID-19 (May 8) Welcome to my home. I’m teleworking today to comply with the guidance from Georgia’s public health experts to maintain social distancing. It is encouraging news that Georgia is gradually able to open some businesses. I know we are all …
Read More» Presidential Message on the 75th Anniversary of Victory in Europe Day (May 8) Seventy-five years ago today, the last remnants of the Nazi regime unconditionally surrendered to the Allied Powers, marking the end of World War II in Europe. Today, we celebrate the forces of freedom who defeated tyranny and emerged victorious in that monumental …
Read More» Message on the 75th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day) (May 8) Today we mark 75 years since the end of hostilities in Europe in the Second World War. We pay tribute today to all those who stood up for humanity and freedom in the face of tyranny, and we honor the sacrifices …
Read More» Briefing With Special Envoy Lea Gabrielle, Global Engagement Center Update on PRC Efforts to Push Disinformation and Propaganda around COVID (May 8) MS ORTAGUS: Thank you very much. Good morning, everyone. Thank you for joining us early on this on-the-record briefing, which is embargoed, please, until the end of the call. This is an update …
Read More» Briefing With Assistant Secretary for Political-Military Affairs R. Clarke Cooper on the Political-Military Affairs Bureau’s Support for Global COVID Relief Efforts (May 8) MS ORTAGUS: Thank you and hello again, everybody. Good morning for the second time. I’m sorry that we’re loading you up on this Friday, but lots of, lots of news today. …
Read More» Briefing on Russian Engagement in the Middle East (May 7) JAMES F. JEFFREY, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR SYRIA ENGAGEMENT AND SPECIAL ENVOY TO THE GLOBAL COALITION TO DEFEAT ISIS HENRY WOOSTER, DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR THE MAGHREB AND EGYPT BUREAU OF NEAR EASTERN AFFAIRS CHRISTOPHER ROBINSON, DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY BUREAU OF EUROPEAN AND EURASIAN AFFAIRS MS ORTAGUS: Thank you very much. Appreciate it. Good to be on with everybody this Thursday afternoon. …
Read More» Joint Statement on the 75th Anniversary of the end of the Second World War (May 7) The following is a joint statement by the U. S. Secretary of State and the Foreign Ministers of Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia. Begin text: Marking the 75th anniversary of the …
Read More» Brock Bierman discusses much needed COVID-19 response assistance from USAID to Georgia (May 6) USAID Assistant Administrator Brock Bierman spoke to TV Imedi this week about what USAID is doing to help Georgia better respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are committed to helping the people of Georgia respond to COVID-19. The United States …
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Remarks by Deputy National Security Advisor Matt Pottinger to the Miller Center at the University of Virginia (May 4) The following is the English language version of a speech that was delivered by Deputy National Security Advisor Matt Pottinger in Mandarin Chinese. Click here for Mandarin version. Good morning everyone. I’m Matt Pottinger, the Deputy National Security Advisor, …
Read More» Briefing With Senior Administration Official and Senior State Department Official On U.S. Global Leadership in the International COVID-19 Response (May 4) SENIOR ADMINISTRATION OFFICIAL: The United States and President Trump are leading the global effort to combat this pandemic. The United States is the single-largest health and humanitarian donor in the world, and the …
Read More» World Press Freedom Day (May 2) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On World Press Freedom Day, recognized around the world on May 3, we highlight the critical role of independent media in facilitating the open exchange of information and ideas so vital to free, prosperous, and secure democratic societies. This year, as the world faces the COVID-19 pandemic, it is …
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Ambassador Degnan Makes First Visit to Administrative Boundary Line, Near Odzisi (April 30) Today, Ambassador Degnan made her first trip to the Administrative Boundary Line, near Odzisi. In comments to the media during the visit, the Ambassador denounced recent borderization activities, “especially in the time of COVID when we need to be working together to …
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Ambassador’s comments at Administrative Boundary Line, near Odzisi (April 30) Question about the visit Ambassador Kelly Degnan: This is my first opportunity to come up to the occupation line and I really appreciate the chance to see this very important region of Georgia. I have to say, seeing it myself, I see more the tragedy of …
Read More» Briefing With Special Representative for Iran and Senior Advisor to Secretary Brian Hook On Depriving Iran of the Weapons of War (April 30) MS ORTAGUS: Thank you. Happy Thursday afternoon, everybody. We will have an on-the-record briefing today. Per usual, this is embargoed until the end of the call, please. As Secretary Pompeo indicated yesterday, …
Read More» Terrorist Attack in Afrin, Syria (April 28) The United States condemns the act of terror carried out today in Afrin, Syria, claiming the lives of dozens of people shopping in the central market as they prepared to break the Ramadan fast. Initial reports indicate many victims were civilians, including children. Such cowardly acts of evil …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (April 27) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much, everyone. Thank you. We continue to see evidence that our aggressive strategy is working and working at a very high level. Nationwide, the percent of tests that come back …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump in a Meeting with Industry Executives on COVID-19 Response (April 27) THE PRESIDENT: Okay, thank you very much. And I’m honored to be joined by representatives of many great American retail companies, some of the greatest companies anywhere in the world. And we’re talking today about different things, and — …
Read More» Iran’s Space Program is Dangerous, Not Peaceful (April 25) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE For years, Iran has claimed its space program is purely peaceful and civilian. The Trump Administration has never believed this fiction. This week’s launch of a military satellite by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization, makes clear what we have said all along: Iran’s space program is …
Read More» USAID Statement on Development Agreement Amendments (April 24) During these difficult times, we reaffirm our support for the Georgian people. This week, Georgia’s Parliament ratified amendments to our Development Assistance Agreements with the Government of Georgia. This allows USAID/Georgia to move forward with more than $64 million in funding to strengthen Georgia’s self-reliance and Euro-Atlantic …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump and Vice President Pence at Tree Planting Ceremony in Recognition of Earth Day and Arbor Day (April 22) THE PRESIDENT: Hi, Mike. Hi. David, hi. Please, thank you. Everyone is very far away from each other. That’s good. We’re learning, right? Hi, Kevin. That’s really nice. Well, this is great …
Read More» Briefing with Dr. William Walters, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Operations, Bureau of Medical Services, and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Ian Brownlee, Bureau of Consular Affairs, on COVID-19: Updates on Health Impact and Assistance for American Citizens Abroad (April 22) MR BROWN: Good afternoon, everybody, and welcome to what I believe is our 10th briefing on …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (April 18) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Good afternoon. We continue to see a number of positive signs that the virus has passed its peak. It’s been very devastating all over the world. A hundred and eighty-four countries. Probably …
Read More» Proclamation on Days Of Remembrance Of Victims Of The Holocaust, 2020 (April 17) Our Nation’s annual observance of Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, calls on all Americans to pause and reflect on the horrific atrocities committed by the Nazi regime against minority groups and other “undesirables” in the years leading up to and during …
Read More» Release of U.S. Government Action Plan to Support the International Response to COVID-19 (April 16) In collaboration with U.S. departments and agencies, the Department of State is releasing the U.S. Government Action Plan to Support the International Response to COVID-19. Through the American people’s generosity and the U.S. government’s action, the United States continues …
Read More» Briefing With Dr. William Walters, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Operations, Bureau of Medical Services; Deputy Assistant Secretary Hugo Yon, Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs; and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Ian Brownlee, Bureau of Consular Affairs On COVID-19: Updates on Health Impact and Assistance for American Citizens Abroad (April 16) MR BROWN: Good afternoon, …
Read More» U.S. Embassy statement on Irakli Okruashvili (April 14) The timing and circumstances of Irakli Okruashvili’s arrest raised concerns about political interference and the selective use of justice. The case casts a shadow over the impartial application of justice – a concern the March 8 Joint Statement was intended to dispel. We urge all signatories to …
Read More» Briefing With Dr. William Walters, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Operations, and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Ian Brownlee, Bureau of Consular Affairs On COVID-19: Updates on Health Impact and Assistance for American Citizens Abroad (April 14) MS ORTAGUS: Thank you so much. Good afternoon, everybody. Welcome to our daily briefing call. So since January 29th, …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (April 14) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much, everyone. My administration will do everything possible to help those communities get back on their feet. We’re speaking with the governors and representatives. FEMA is already on its way, …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump in a Meeting with Recovered COVID-19 Patients (April 14) THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you very much, everybody. This is a group of people who, in many cases, became quite famous because they went through a lot having to do with the coronavirus. A tremendous amount. And a lot of them …
Read More» Political Situation in Iraq (April 13) The United States looks forward to the formation of a new Iraqi Government capable of confronting the COVID-19 pandemic, ameliorating the country’s current economic distress, and bringing arms under state control. We welcome that Shia, Sunni, and Kurdish political leaders seem to have arrived at a consensus on government …
Read More» Ambassador Degnan speaks about U.S. Aid for Georgia’s COVID-19 response (April 13) Gamarjoba – For nearly 30 years, the United States and Georgia have built a partnership based on shared values, common strategic interests, and the mutual benefits of cooperation. As you know, U.S. Government assistance has helped Georgia to strengthen its defense and security, …
Read More» Briefing With Dr. William Walters, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Operations; Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Julie Chung, Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs; and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Ian Brownlee, Bureau of Consular Affairs On COVID-19: Updates on Health Impact and Assistance for American Citizens Abroad (April 10) MR BROWN: Good afternoon, everyone, and thanks …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (April 10) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much everybody, and good afternoon. Today is Good Friday. And this Sunday, millions of Christians celebrate Easter and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. At this holy time, we pray that …
Read More» Ambassador Degnan’s remarks to the press after meeting with Minister of Health on (April 10) Thank you very much. We had a very useful conversation. Of course, we at the United States Embassy are following the situation here in Georgia very very closely. The Minister and I had a chance to discuss not only the …
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U.S. companies helped China in its time of need (April 7) The people of the United States care for the people of China. As the People’s Republic of China grappled with the COVID-19 pandemic earlier this year, U.S. companies sprang into action to provide assistance, relief and containment efforts. From beverage companies to shipping businesses, …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (April 7) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you very much. This week, America continues our aggressive effort to defeat the virus as we enter a crucial and difficult phase of the battle. We continue to …
Read More» The United States Designates Russian Imperial Movement and Leaders as Global Terrorists (April 7) The State Department has designated the Russian Imperial Movement (RIM) and members of its leadership as Specially Designated Global Terrorists, the first time in history the Department has designated a white supremacist terrorist group. As President Trump has said, “In one …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (April 6) THE PRESIDENT: Okay, thank you very much, everybody. All these people have been working very, very hard today, I’ll tell you. For a long time, they’ve been working. But before I begin, I want to …
Read More» Briefing With Coordinator for Counterterrorism Ambassador Nathan A. Sales On the United States Designation of the Russian Imperial Movement And its Leaders as Global Terrorists (April 6) MS ORTAGUS: Good morning, and thanks for joining this briefing. Today, the State Department has announced the designation of Russian Imperial Movement, or RIM, and members of …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (April 5) THE PRESIDENT: It’s a busy time. Very busy time. And let me begin by again expressing our support, solidarity, and love for the people of our great country. We’re fighting for you and we’re enduring …
Read More» This Week in Iran Policy (April 3) “… As we’ve said for the detainees in Iran, now is the most appropriate moment to use this humanitarian challenge as a reason to allow these people to return to their families and their loved ones. State Department’s working hard to get them back.” -Secretary of State …
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Restoring free and fair elections in Venezuela (April 2) The United States released a framework that builds upon the proposals put forward by the interim government of Venezuela for a path to free and fair presidential elections in that country. “This framework can provide a path that ends the suffering and opens the path …
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USAID Support for Central Election Commission under Elections and Political Processes Program (March 31) Cybersecurity is crucial to protecting democracy. Today, Georgia’s Central Election Commission (CEC) signed an agreement with UGT, a private-sector IT company, to provide critical software and hardware to protect the country’s democratic elections from external malign influence. Electoral cybersecurity is …
Read More» Restrictions on Iran’s Nuclear Program Continued (March 30) The United States is renewing four restrictions on the Iranian regime’s nuclear program for an additional 60 days. Iran’s continued expansion of nuclear activities is unacceptable. The regime’s nuclear extortion is among the greatest threats to international peace and security. As President Trump said earlier this year, Iran …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in a Press Briefing (March 30) THE PRESIDENT: Okay, thank you very much. Thank you. Very comfortable here. A lot of room. And we appreciate you being here. Yesterday I announced that we would be extending our social distance guidelines through the end …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump in a Meeting with Supply Chain Distributors on COVID-19 (March 29) THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you very much. First of all, I’d like to congratulate the Army Corps of Engineers and FEMA and everybody else in the federal government, working with state government, but on the incredible job that the …
Read More» Briefing With Dr. William Walters, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Operations, Bureau of Medical Services, and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Ian Brownlee, Bureau of Consular Affairs On COVID-19: Updates on Health Impact and Assistance for American Citizens Abroad (March 27) MS ORTAGUS: Thanks, everybody, and sorry for our tardiness. We keep having a little bit …
Read More» Briefing With Special Envoy Lea Gabrielle, Global Engagement Center On Disinformation and Propaganda Related to COVID-19 (March 27) MS ORTAGUS: Great. Okay, this record – excuse me, this phone call, this briefing is going to be on the record and embargoed until the end of the call, please. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic throughout …
Read More» Briefing With Special Envoy Lea Gabrielle, Global Engagement Center On Disinformation and Propaganda Related to COVID-19 (March 27) MS ORTAGUS: Great. Okay, this record – excuse me, this phone call, this briefing is going to be on the record and embargoed until the end of the call, please. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic throughout …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (March 26) THE PRESIDENT: Hello, everybody. Hello. Thank you very much. Thank you. Beautiful day. Very good what you’re doing. Look at all those empty seats. Never seen it like that. Oh, boy. Well, how the world has …
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Open communication key during public health crises (March 26) Within weeks of learning about the deadly coronavirus outbreak that originated in China, officials in South Korea stood up laboratories to support testing of 20,000 citizens per day. In Taiwan, authorities began daily press conferences to inform the public and dispel rumors. And in the United States, the National Institutes of Health quickly …
Read More» U.S. Foreign Assistance in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic (March 26) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The U.S. government has rapidly mobilized unprecedented resources to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, both at home and abroad. Today, I am pleased to announce that the United States has made available nearly $274 million in emergency health and humanitarian funding. Along with the …
Read More» Briefing With USAID Deputy Administrator Bonnie Glick and Director of U.S. Foreign Assistance Resources James L. Richardson On U.S. Foreign Assistance in Response to COVID-19 (March 26) MS ORTAGUS: Well, let’s go ahead and get started, everybody. This is Morgan, spokesperson. I just want to remind everybody that everything that we discuss on this call …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (March 24) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Been a very busy day. I want to thank the American people for the incredible sacrifices that they’re making on behalf of our nation. And I want to encourage everyone …
Read More» Joint Statement on the so-called “Presidential Elections” held in Georgia’s Abkhazia Region (March 23) Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Canada, Estonia, Finland, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Romania, Sweden, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and the United States of America do not recognize the legitimacy of the so-called “presidential elections” held in Georgia’s Abkhazia region on …
Read More» Khamenei’s Lies About the Wuhan Virus Put Lives at Risk (March 23) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Supreme Leader Khamenei’s fabrications regarding the Wuhan Virus are dangerous and they put Iranians and people around the world at greater risk. Facts matter. Here are a few the Iranian regime would like to keep from the world: Fact: In February, Iran’s chief …
Read More» On the Political Impasse in Afghanistan (March 23) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States is proud of our partnership with the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Afghan people, and admires what Afghanistan has achieved since 2001. We have forged a deep bond, especially with Afghan security forces, through shared sacrifice in responding to threats to international peace …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (March 21) James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 1:00 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. A lot of things going on, and we’re going to be going over to the Hill, and we’re having a …
Read More» This Week in Iran Policy (March 20) “We made a commitment to do everything we can to provide them with all that America can deliver for Iran. I hope they’ll accept that offer. That alone will contribute to Iran being able to manage this problem set for the Iranian people. I hope they’ll take …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (March 20) James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 11:50 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. I had a very good telephone conversation — extremely good — with Senator Schumer a little while ago. We’re working …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (March 19) James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 11:31 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. I think this is going to be a very important conference and I’ll get to that toward the middle, but …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump and Vice President Pence in a Video Teleconference with Governors on COVID-19 (March 19) Federal Emergency Management Agency Headquarters Washington, D.C. 2:40 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Everybody ready? Okay, Chad, do you want to start it? Do you — do you want to start off? ACTING SECRETARY WOLF: Well, Mr. …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (March 18) James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 12:06 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. I would like to begin by announcing some important developments in our war against the Chinese virus. We’ll be invoking …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump and Vice President Pence in a Briefing with Nurses on COVID-19 Response (March 18) Cabinet Room 3:53 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you very much. And today I welcome the great nurses of our country to the White House and express our gratitude for those on the frontlines in …
Read More» Further Sanctions on Entities Trading in or Transporting Iranian Petrochemicals (March 18) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Yesterday, the U.S. Department of State-sanctioned nine entities and three individuals who have engaged in activity that could enable the Iranian regime’s violent behavior. The actions of these individuals and entities provide revenue to the regime that it may use to …
Read More» Constraining Iranian Nuclear Scientists (March 18) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On March 16, in response to the Iranian regime’s unacceptable nuclear escalations, the Department of Commerce is imposing restrictions on five Iranian nuclear scientists by adding them to the Department of Commerce’s Entity List. These five individuals were involved in Iran’s pre-2004 nuclear weapons program (the “Amad Plan”) …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump in Meeting with Tourism Industry Executives on COVID-19 Response (March 17) Cabinet Room 2:16 P.M. EDTTHE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you very much. We have the tourism industry executives, the biggest anywhere in the world. These are the great ones, and they’re going to say a couple of little words pretty …
Read More» The State Department Imposes Sanctions on Individual Responsible for the Violence in Northern Syria (March 17) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, the United States is designating a senior Assad regime official who is responsible for the violence and the disastrous humanitarian crisis in northern Syria. The Department of State is imposing sanctions under Executive Order 13894 on …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (March 16) James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 3:21 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. Thank you. So, I’m glad to see that you’re practicing social distancing. That looks very nice. It’s very good. I …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (March 15) James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 5:15 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Beautiful day outside. And I think we have some great things to talk about. I’ll start by discussing the Federal Reserve. As you know, …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Briefing (March 14) James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 12:19 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much. We just completed a very good meeting of the Coronavirus Task Force. And we — we’re really — they’re really …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Conference (March 13) Rose Garden 3:30 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much, everyone. Thank you. Thank you. A beautiful day in the Rose Garden. Appreciate everybody being here. Today, I’d like to provide an update to the …
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Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Conference (March 13) Rose Garden 3:30 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much, everyone. Thank you. Thank you. A beautiful day in the Rose Garden. Appreciate everybody being here. Today, I’d like to provide an update to the …
Read More» This Week in Iran Policy (March 13) “The United States calls on the Islamic Republic of Iran to immediately release on humanitarian grounds all wrongfully detained Americans being held in Iran. The United States will hold the Iranian regime directly responsible for any American deaths. Our response will be decisive.” – Secretary Pompeo, Press …
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Ambassador Degnan’s Remarks to Media per Meeting with Minister of Finance Question about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I had an excellent meeting with the Finance Minister. We already have such extensive cooperation, especially in the areas of export controls and border security. But we also explored developing an investment screening mechanism so Georgia would …
Read More» Proclamation—Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Certain Additional Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus HEALTHCARE Issued on: March 11, 2020 On January 31, 2020, I issued Proclamation 9984 (Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus and Other Appropriate Measures To Address …
Read More» Human Rights Report for 2019 From the time we declared our independence as a free nation, the United States has committed itself to the ideals of democracy, individual freedom, equal protection under the rule of law, and the protection of human rights. Our nation was founded on the premise that all human beings are created …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump in Meeting with Bankers on COVID-19 (March 11) Cabinet Room 3:39 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you very much. And we are having a meeting — a very important meeting — with the, I would say, the greatest bankers in the world, the most important banks in the world, …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump in Address to the Nation (March 11) Oval Office 9:02 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: My fellow Americans: Tonight, I want to speak with you about our nation’s unprecedented response to the coronavirus outbreak that started in China and is now spreading throughout the world. Today, the World Health Organization officially …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump and Vice President Pence at a Coronavirus Briefing with Health Insurers (March 10) Roosevelt Room 11:43 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you very much. We’re meeting with the top executives of the health insurance companies, the biggest companies in our country — probably the biggest companies in our country, …
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Ambassador Degnan’s Remarks to Media per Meeting with Minister Chkhenkeli (March 9) Question about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I had a great meeting with the minister today. We have such a rich array of collaboration with all the sectors in his ministry, such as math, education, science, culture, and sports. We discussed different ways …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump After Tour of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention | Atlanta, GA (March 7) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Atlanta, Georgia March 6, 2020 4:43 P.M EST THE PRESIDENT: I said, “I’d like to walk the press down the hall to see how professional this is.” It’s incredible. …
Read More» IAEA Reports Nuclear Concerns in Iran (March 5) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On March 3 in Vienna, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi issued two new reports that heighten already serious concerns that the Islamic Republic of Iran is hiding its nuclear material and nuclear activities. Iran is a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Iran’s safeguards agreements, under …
Read More» ICC Decision on Afghanistan (March 5) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, the International Criminal Court (ICC) Appeals Chamber authorized an investigation into the alleged activities of the Taliban and the U.S. and Afghan personnel related to Afghanistan. This is a truly breathtaking action by an unaccountable political institution, masquerading as a legal body. It is all the …
Read More» 2020 International Women of Courage Award Recipients Announced (March 4) Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo to Honor Awardees on March 4, 2020 with Special Remarks by First Lady of the United States Melania Trump On Wednesday, March 4, Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will host the Annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) …
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Ambassador Degnan speaks about Preventing Violence against Women in Politics and Elections (March 4) Today Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan delivered remarks during the Meeting on Preventing Violence against Women in Politics and Elections organized by the United Nations. The Ambassador spoke about the growing recognition of women’s important role in leadership and how their …
Read More» America Announces New Humanitarian Assistance for the Syria Crisis Response (March 3) PRESS STATEMENT MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON Today in Turkey, the U.S. Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Kelly Craft, announced $108 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the people of Syria in response to the ongoing crisis caused by the Assad regime, Russian, and Iranian forces. This …
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Georgia hosts INL’s 9th Annual Women in Policing Conference (March 3) Today Ambassador Kelly Degnan opened the 9th Annual Women in Policing Conference organized by U.S. Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Bureau (INL). This conference is designed to empower, inspire, and educate female members of the criminal justice system. Studies show that female law …
Read More» Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s Remarks to media at the 9th Women in Policing Conference (March 3) Question about the event Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I am delighted to be part of the opening of the ninth annual Women in Policing workshop here in Tbilisi. It is designed to inspire and educate female police officers and help further …
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Pompeo: the U.S. stands for religious freedom (March 2) U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo underscored the U.S. commitment to defending religious freedom as regimes around the world restrict their own people’s right to worship as they choose. Pompeo told the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) February 28 in Oxon Hill, Maryland, that …
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Defense Secretary Mark Esper: This is our chance to bring troops home from Afghanistan for good (March 1) By Mark Esper March 1, 2020 at 1:16 a.m. GMT+4 Mark Esper is a U.S. defense secretary. On Sept. 11, 2001, as many of us remember too well, al-Qaeda perpetrated its murderous attacks against the United States …
Read More» Secretary Michael R. Pompeo At a Press Availability After the Afghanistan Signing Ceremony (February 29) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE SECRETARY POMPEO: Good afternoon, everyone. Today is a historic day for the United States of America and the American people. Today, we have taken a decisive step toward peace, real peace in Afghanistan. Just as any worthy journey begins, it …
Read More» Briefing With Senior Administration Officials On Next Steps Toward an Agreement on Bringing Peace to Afghanistan (February 29) MODERATOR: Okay, we’re going to try to give everybody as much time as possible. Let’s talk about ground rules up front. This is going to be on background, SAO, okay? This is going to be embargoed until …
Read More» This Week in Iran Policy “The United [States] stands with the Iranian people. We will continue to their support their voices. These are people who are desperately eager to be heard in a free and fair election.” – Secretary Pompeo, Remarks, February 25, 2020 OPENING REMARKS BY SECRETARY POMPEO BEFORE THE HOUSE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS, FEBRUARY …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump at a Reception for African American History Month (February 28) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Thank you very much. AUDIENCE: Four more years! Four more years! Four more years! THE PRESIDENT: We love you. Thank you very much, everybody. I want to just — first of all, a person that’s doing …
Read More» Attack on Turkish Soldiers in Idlib (February 28) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE We stand by our NATO Ally Turkey in the aftermath of the despicable and brazen February 27 attack on Turkish forces in Idlib, which resulted in the death of dozens of Turkish soldiers. We send our condolences to the Government of …
Read More» The United States Offers Assistance to the Iranian People (February 28) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States stands with the people of Iran during the public health crisis caused by the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The U.S. Government is prepared to assist the Iranian people in their response efforts. This …
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U.S. Government helps to increase capacity at Kutaisi International Airport (February 26) Today the USAID Economic Security Program signed a memorandum of understanding with United Airports of Georgia to support the expansion of Kutaisi International Airport. With workforce training and marketing support, the United States will help the airport drive economic growth in Imereti and across Georgia. …
Read More» Crimea is Ukraine (February 26) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE February 27 will mark the sixth anniversary of Russia’s attempted annexation of Ukraine’s Crimean peninsula, and the United States reaffirms: Crimea is Ukraine. As underscored in our July 2018 Crimea Declaration, the United States does not and will not ever recognize Russia’s claims of sovereignty over the peninsula. …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump, Vice President Pence, and Members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Press Conference (February 26) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you very much, everybody. Thank you very much. Before I begin, I’d like to extend my deepest condolences to the victims and families in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Earlier today, a wicked murderer opened …
Read More» New Sanctions under the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act (INKSNA) (February 25) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States is sanctioning 13 foreign entities and individuals in China, Iraq, Russia, and Turkey pursuant to the Iran, North Korea, and Syria Nonproliferation Act (INKSNA). This action includes new sanctions against five entities/individuals in China (Luo Dingwen, …
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Ambassador Degnan meets with NDI President Mitchell (February 23) Today Ambassador Kelly Degnan met with the National Democratic Institute (NDI) President Derek Mitchell, during his visit to Georgia, to discuss the current political and pre-electoral environment. NDI plays a critical role as a non-partisan organization working with a range of partners to support democratic institutions …
Read More» Next Steps Toward a U.S. Agreement with the Taliban (February 21) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States and the Taliban have been engaged in extensive talks to facilitate a political settlement to end the war in Afghanistan, reduce the United States and Allied Forces presence, and ensure that no terrorist group ever uses Afghan soil to …
Read More» The United States Condemns Russian Cyber Attack Against the Country of Georgia (February 20) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On October 28, 2019, the Russian General Staff Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU) Main Center for Special Technologies (GTsST, also known as Unit 74455 and Sandworm) carried out a widespread disruptive cyber attack against the country of Georgia. The incident, which directly affected …
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Ambassador Degnan’s meeting with opposition leaders (February 18) Ambassador Kelly Degnan today hosted opposition leaders to meet them and discuss Georgia’s political environment. Ambassador Degnan reiterated the importance of all sides actively participating in the ongoing political dialogue and wider electoral reform process to address OSCE-ODIHR recommendations.
Read More» Public-Private Cooperation To Combat the Novel Coronavirus (February 15) PRESS STATEMENT MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON Last week, thanks to a joint effort of federal and local authorities and private organizations and companies, 17.8 tons of personal protection equipment and medical supplies were delivered, and more than 800 people were evacuated from Wuhan, China, amidst the Novel Coronavirus outbreak. A …
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USAID/Georgia Mission Director Wiebler speaks at Parliamentary Legal Issues Committee (February 14) Today USAID/Georgia Mission Director Peter Wiebler spoke at the Parliamentary Legal Issues Committee’s presentation of its 2019 annual report and underlined the U.S. Government’s support for the implementation of important reforms strengthening the rule of law in Georgia. The event highlighted several areas where the …
Read More» On the One-Year Anniversary of the Launch of the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity (W-GDP) Initiative (February 12) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE AMBASSADOR CURRIE: Good morning, everyone, and welcome to the United States Department of State. My name is Kelley Currie. I am the ambassador-at-large for global women’s issues here at the department. We are honored and delighted to …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s Remarks to Media per Meeting with MOH Tikaradze (February 11) Q-n about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: We had a very valuable meeting with the Minister today, covering a range of issues. We have so much cooperation in the health sector, the labor sector, social issues in general. We discussed a little …
Read More» Iran’s Failed Space Launch (February 11) The Iranian regime uses satellite launches to develop its ballistic missile capabilities. The technologies used to launch satellites into orbit are virtually identical and interchangeable with those used in longer range systems, including intercontinental ballistic missiles. Each launch, whether failed or not, further allows Iran to gain experience …
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U.S. Government donates high-mobility vehicles to the Emergency Management Service of Georgia (February 10) The U.S. Government, through the U.S. European Command Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC), donated six new Toyota Land Cruiser high-mobility vehicles to the Emergency Management Service of the Ministry of Interior of Georgia. The donation is part of the U.S. Department …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s Remarks to Media per Meeting Infrastructure Minister Tskitishvili (February 10) q-n about the event Ambassador Kelly Degnan: We had an excellent meeting today. Very informative. I’m impressed at the amount of work that is going on to touch Georgians’ lives from the local level on up with different initiatives aimed at building …
Read More» The United States Announces Assistance To Combat the Novel Coronavirus (February 7) This week the State Department has facilitated the transportation of nearly 17.8 tons of donated medical supplies to the Chinese people, including masks, gowns, gauze, respirators, and other vital materials. These donations are a testament to the generosity of the American people. …
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The Radio Donation to the Investigative Department of the State Inspector’s Service (February 5) The United States Embassy donated handheld and vehicle radios to the Investigative Department of the State Inspector’s Service of Georgia. This new department within the State Inspector’s Service recently assumed the central role of investigating violent crimes committed by law enforcement …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan visits Patriarch of Georgia, Ilia II (February 4) Today, February 4th, the U.S. Ambassador Kelly Degnan visited His Holiness the Patriarch of Georgia, Ilia II. Patriarch Ilia II congratulated Ambassador Degnan on her appointment as U.S. Ambassador to Georgia and wished her success. The Ambassador thanked His Holiness for the warm welcome …
Read More» On President Trump’s State of the Union Address (February 4) PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE President Trump continues to lead an American foreign policy that bolsters our security and prosperity, strengthens our alliances and partnerships, and protects our precious freedoms. In just the past year, the United States has removed the head …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s Remarks to Media per Meeting Parliament Speaker Talakvadze ( February 3) Q-n about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: It was a very good, constructive conversation I just had with the Speaker. We discussed a number of areas where we already have very strong cooperation: the security field, education, democratization of Georgia’s political …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan presented her Credentials at MFA (January 31) Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan had the honor of presenting her credentials to Minister of Foreign Affairs David Zalkaliani and President of Georgia Salome Zourabichvili. Ambassador Degnan will now officially assume her duties as the Chief of Mission of the United States to Georgia. Ambassador Kelly …
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U.S. and Israel agree to deepen cooperation in support of Georgia’s development (January 31) Today, USAID/Georgia signed an important agreement with the Israeli Agency for International Development and Cooperation. Under this agreement, both the United States and Israel agreed to deepen cooperation in support of Georgia’s development. Specifically, both countries will cooperate to better …
Read More» Secretary Pompeo’s Visit to Ukraine (January 30) “Ukrainians continue to fight this battle as they work to build a modern, democratic, Western state. They know that a free and well-governed nation is a hard-won victory, but its worth it. The United States supports those efforts and honors the achievements that you have made thus …
Read More» Annual Partnership Development Forum (January 29) The Development Partner Coordination Group is a formally recognized body comprised of all major bilateral and multilateral development partners operating in Georgia, including International Financial Institutions. The Development Partner Coordination Group views the Forum as a useful platform to jointly reflect on progress seen in areas fostered by external …
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White House unveils most detailed Middle East peace plan ever proposed (January 29) President Trump released on January 28 the administration’s vision for peace between Israel and the Palestinians . Speaking in the East Room of the White House with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the president described his plan to resolve the decades of conflict between Israeli and Palestinian people as …
Read More» This Week in Iran Policy (January 25) “…our mission set is twofold: to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon, and then to make sure that that country, the world’s largest state sponsor of terror, can’t inflict harm on Americans. So we do everything we can each day to reduce that risk, all the …
Read More» The United States Imposes Further Sanctions on Iran’s Petrochemical Industry (January 23) Today, the United States is taking new steps as part of our maximum economic pressure campaign to deny the Iranian regime all sources of revenue to fund its destabilizing activities. The Department of State is imposing sanctions on Chinese company Shandong Qiwangda …
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Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 20) On the third Monday of January, Americans honor the life and achievements of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., (1929–1968), the 1964 Nobel Peace laureate and the individual most associated with the triumphs of the African-American civil rights movement during the 1950s and 1960s. As political organizer, …
Read More» Securing Greater Religious Freedom Around the World (January 17) 234 years ago, Thomas Jefferson penned these words: “…no man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place, or ministry whatsoever, nor shall be enforced, restrained, molested, or burdened in his body or goods, nor shall otherwise suffer on account of his …
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Ambassador Degnan’s swearing-in remarks (January 16) Thank you, U/S Hale, for those generous remarks. Some of my most memorable FS moments come from my time on P Staff, so I feel honored to have you – “P”, the U/S for Political Affairs — here today to administer the oath. I’d like to give a …
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The Inaugural Ceremony of a newly renovated Public School in Kveshi (January 15) Today, January 15th, CDA Elizabeth Rood helped open the newly renovated public school in Kveshi, in the Shida Kartli region. The school is just one kilometer from the Administrative Boundary Line (ABL) and serves 200 children. The U.S. military’s humanitarian assistance program …
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CDA Elizabeth Rood visits distinguished Georgian artist Muraz Murvanidze (January 13) CDA Elizabeth Rood visited acclaimed Georgian artist and stage designer Muraz Murvanidze at his home in old Tbilisi. Mr. Murvanidze shared with her some of the highlights from his extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and mementos from his celebrated work worldwide. Mr. Murvanidze has …
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U.S. Sanctions Target Iranian regime’s ‘brute squad’ (January 10) The Trump administration will impose sanctions as long as Iran’s outlaw ways continue, Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo said January 10 as he outlined new sanctions targeting the Iranian regime’s “brute squad” of top security officials. The new sanctions hit the regime’s senior Iranian …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump on Iran (January 8) THE PRESIDENT: As long as I am President of the United States, Iran will never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon. Good morning. I’m pleased to inform you: The American people should be extremely grateful and happy no Americans were harmed in last night’s attack …
Read More» Iranian Strikes in Iraq (January 8) Casualties: The President noted in his remarks that there were no casualties; governments of Iraq, Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, and Spain also reported no casualties among their soldiers in Iraq. Iraqi Protests Against Iran: Iraqi protesters in Nasiriyah reportedly refused to allow supporters …
Read More» Congratulations and best wishes to His Holiness Patriarch Ilia II (January 4) On behalf of the United States of America, Chargé d’Affaires Elizabeth Rood extends her warmest congratulations to His Holiness Patriarch Ilia II on the occasion of his birthday and best wishes for health and happiness in the coming year, as well as peace and prosperity for the …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump on the Killing of Qasem Soleimani (January 3) THE PRESIDENT: Hello, everybody. Well, thank you very much. And good afternoon. As President, my highest and most solemn duty is the defense of our nation and its citizens. Last night, at my direction, the United States military successfully executed a flawless …
Read More» CDA Elizabeth Rood’s Media Comments following the Fourth Round of the Meeting between the Ruling Party and the Opposition (December 20) Question about the results CDA Elizabeth Rood: I would say that this fourth round of dialogue again demonstrated the value of this format for the ruling party and the opposition representatives to come together …
Read More» Kelly C. Degnan’s nomination confirmed unanimously by the U.S. Senate (December 20) The U.S. Embassy is pleased to share the news that the U.S. Senate has confirmed by unanimous consent Kelly C. Degnan’s nomination to become Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to Georgia. Ambassador-Designate Degnan will take her oath of …
Read More» Human Rights and the Iranian Regime (December 19) SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you. Good morning. Thank you, all. Thank you. Good morning, everyone. How are you all doing today? Everybody good? It’s an important day here at the State Department, and I appreciate you all joining us. Bob, thanks for the kind introduction, and I’m delighted …
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The U.S. stands with the Iranian people (December 19) U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo vowed to continue U.S. support for the Iranian people as they struggle against a repressive regime that violates human rights. Pompeo told a December 19 U.S. Department of State forum that recent protests in Iran show that the …
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CAO Julius Tsai speaks to Georgian arts and crafts entrepreneurs (December 18) On December 18, CAO Julius Tsai visited an exhibition put on by the Georgian Arts and Culture Center, under the auspices of the PAS grant “Stimulating Startups in Heritage Crafts and Design.” The year-long capacity-building initiative aims to strengthen the arts and craft …
Read More» CDA Elizabeth Rood’s Media Comments on the Sidelines of Ambassadorial 2019 (December 17) Q-n about the letter signed by Congressmen Kinzinger and Connolly CDA Rood: We have seen the letter from Representatives Kinzinger and Connolly, but, as this letter expresses the views of members of Congress, I would refer you to the Congressmen’s office …
Read More» CDA Elizabeth Rood’s Comments to Media after the Third Round of Talks between the Ruling Party and Opposition (December 15) Q-n about the CDA’s impression of the talks as “the opposition claimed they were more constructive than the ruling party did.” CDA Rood: The third round of dialogue again took place in a constructive …
Read More» This Week in Iran Policy (December 13) “As long as [Iran’s] malign behavior continues, so will our campaign of maximum pressure… these sanctions are aimed not at China, not at the Iranian people, but at the leadership of the Islamic Republic of Iran that is engaged in activity that poses threats around the world…We will …
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Launch of Developing Regional Information and Voter Empowerment for Democracy (DRIVE) Activity (December 12) Today, on December 12th, USAID, along with the Eastern European Centre for Multiparty Democracy (EECMD) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC) launched the DRIVE Democracy Activity, a three year one million dollar project designed to help empower Georgian Citizens to …
Read More» U.S. Participation in the Geneva International Discussions on the Conflict in Georgia Press statement by the U.S. Delegation (December 12) During the December 10-11 fiftieth round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID) on the conflict in Georgia, the U.S. delegation expressed frustration that participants have been unable to make progress on core issues and …
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The U.S. supports Georgia in CBRN threat preparedness (December 11) Today CDA Elizabeth Rood opened the 5th Annual Interagency Council on CBRN threats and highlighted the United States and Georgia’s shared commitment to, and investment in, global security. The United States, through the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), committed equipment and training to Georgia …
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Major General Carden attended the 25th Anniversary of the State Partnership Program between Georgia and the state of Georgia (December 10) Today Major General Thomas Carden attended the 25th Anniversary of the State Partnership Program to commemorate the enduring relationship between the country of Georgia and the U.S. state of Georgia. The State Partnership Program …
Read More» International Anticorruption Day (December 9) Today, on International Anticorruption Day, we reaffirm our commitment to prevent and combat corruption globally. Corruption obstructs economic growth and development, facilitates transnational crime, and fuels terrorism, robbing citizens around the world of their basic rights. Corruption enables and sustains autocratic leaders, weakens faith in democratic systems, creates opportunities …
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Colonel Bagley speaks at the Women in the Military Field event (December 9) U.S. Defense Attaché to Georgia, Colonel Stephanie Bagley, was invited to share her experience at the Women in the Military Field Speakers event. During her speech, COL Bagley, who is the first female U.S. Defensé Attache to Georgia, spoke about challenges and opportunities for women in the military. She underlined …
Read More» CDA Elizabeth Rood’s media comment before the start of the meeting between the ruling party and the opposition (December 8) CDA Rood: Last week, the ruling party and opposition met to begin a dialogue aimed at restoring trust and identifying the best way forward to make Georgia 2020 Parliamentary elections a real step forward in …
Read More» CDA Elizabeth Rood’s media comment made following the meeting between the ruling party and opposition (December 8) Q-n about the outcome of the dialogue CDA Rood: We had a second round of dialogue in a constructive atmosphere, and we agreed that we would meet again to continue the discussion. With the encouragement of the …
Read More» Representative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today issued the following statement in support of the National Democratic Institute and the International Republican Institute (December 6) “Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Georgia has made tremendous strides forward developing democracy and the rule of law—values at the core of …
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CDA Elizabeth Rood attends opening Ceremony at MCC-rehabilitated Kutaisi # 17 School (December 5) On December 5, 2019, Charge d’Affairs Elizabeth Rood attended the opening of #17 Public School in Kutaisi, celebrating its Millennium Challenge Corporation-funded renovation. Kutaisi School # 17, which enrolls more than 1,400 students, was renovated in July of 2019 in the …
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CDA Rood meets Civil Society in Kutaisi (December 5) Today, Chargé d’Affaires Elizabeth Rood met with civil society activists in Kutaisi to discuss the role of local civil society organizations in representing local citizens and strengthening Georgia’s democracy. The CDA emphasized the U.S. Government’s support for civil society and encouraged the activists to continue to …
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The U.S. Embassy joins “16 Days of Activism” campaign to end gender-based violence (December 5) The U.S. Embassy’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) joined the 16-day campaign against gender-based violence by providing a weeklong training to the Georgian police titled “Domestic Violence Practical Intervention.” The classes were taught by U.S. police …
Read More» CDA Elizabeth Rood’s Comment to Media at Biltmore Hotel (November 30) Q-n about the significance of the consensus between the ruling party and the opposition, and If this can be achieved CDA Rood; As you recall, the United States, along with the European Union Delegation, expressed a strong hope and called for a dialogue …
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CDA Elizabeth Rood visiting Kharagauli (November 26) November 26, Chargé d’Affairs Elizabeth Rood traveled to Kharagauli, where she visited several historic monuments, including the “Devi Cave,” the site of the oldest prehistoric human remains in the territory of Georgia. CDA Rood also visited a museum exhibition in Kharagauli, where she viewed the work of artist Badri Philishvili, a self-taught painter and musician from …
Read More» Secretary Pompeo on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (November 25) In observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25 and the accompanying 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the United States is proud to reaffirm its commitment to defending the rights of …
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Minister of Defense Irakli Gharibashvili Visit to the United States (November 25) November 25, 2019. Georgian Minister of Defense Irakli Gharibashvili completed an official visit to the United States, the highlights of which were meeting with United States Deputy Secretary of Defense David Norquist and the signing of the Bilateral Security Cooperation Framework. Minister Gharibashvili …
Read More» This Week in Iran Policy, November 18-22 (November 22) “As Iranians take to the streets in protest, the Ayatollahs in Tehran continue to use violence and imprisonment to oppress their people. The United States’ message is clear: the American people stand with the people of Iran.” – Vice President Mike Pence, Twitter, November 20 …
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U.S. infrastructure company “Acrow Bridge” ready to do business in Georgia (November 19) On November 19, 2019, Chargé d’Affaires Elizabeth Rood hosted a reception to present U.S. infrastructure company Acrow Bridge to representatives of the Georgian government, international organizations, and the business community. In her welcome remarks, CDA Rood and Deputy Minister of Infrastructure Irakli Karseladze highlighted the desire for more …
Read More» Secretary Michael R. Pompeo At the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS Small Group Ministerial (November 14) SECRETARY POMPEO: Well, good morning, everyone. Welcome. I first want to thank Secretary General Stoltenberg, Under Secretary of Defense Rood – John – and the representatives of 31 partners for being here today. Thank you all so much …
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CDA Elizabeth Rood’s Remarks to media at GDSC 2019 (November 6) Q-n about the event Charge d’Affairs, Elizabeth Rood: Georgia’s Defense and Security Conference is an excellent opportunity for people in government and experts in the security and defense fields to talk about Georgia’s progress towards Euro-Atlantic integration. This year’s conference is going to …
Read More» International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (November 2) In far too many places around the world, journalists are killed, tortured, jailed, and harassed for reporting that exposes the abuses of corrupt regimes, undermines the work of terrorist and criminal organizations, gives voice to overlooked communities, and counters disinformation. As of December …
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Freedom of expression is a value shared by Georgia and the United States and a basic condition for individual liberty and for maintaining a free society. On November 1, CDA Rood spoke at Transparency International Georgia’s conference on hate speech, an event supported by USAID’s Promoting Rule of Law in Georgia activity. She emphasized that …
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CDA Rood Attends NATO-Georgia Public Diplomacy Forum (October 31) CDA Elizabeth Rood at the 4th Annual NATO-Georgia Public Diplomacy Forum to chair a panel discussion called “Investing in Resilience: The Power of Education.” The NATO-Georgia Public Diplomacy Forum provides a high-level platform for cross-sector collaboration in order to explore the common ground and goals between …
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The U.S. Government donates a truck to Georgian K9 unit (October 28) Today CDA Rood met the Georgian Ministry of Interior’s working drug detection dogs. Since 2014, the U.S. government has trained 14 dogs for the Georgian MoI to strengthen its ability to stop to flow of illegal drugs. Today the dogs and their handlers …
Read More» Remarks by President Trump on the Death of ISIS Leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi (October 27) Diplomatic Reception Room 9:20 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Last night, the United States brought the world’s number one terrorist leader to justice. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is dead. He was the founder and leader of ISIS, the most ruthless and violent …
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The USS Porter Visits Batumi Port (October 22) On October 22, USS Porter (DDG 78) entered Batumi harbor. The visit serves to highlight the continued cooperation between the U.S. and Georgia to promote regional peace and stability. Commander C.M. Trent was greeted by Georgian Officials at the harbor and offered a traditional glass of Georgian …
Read More» The USS Porter Visits Batumi Port (October 22) The United States Ship (USS) Porter (DDG 78) arrives in Batumi for a port visit on October 22. The visit serves to highlight the continued cooperation between the U.S. and Georgia by promoting regional peace and stability. This will be the ship’s second visit to Georgia. …
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CDA Rood meets Women in Science camp participants (October 18) On October 18, CDA Elizabeth Rood met with participants of the Women in Science (WiSci) STEAM camp to congratulate and encourage them to follow their dreams pursuing science, technology, engineering, arts & design, and mathematics (STEAM) in their higher education and careers. WiSci Girls’ STEAM …
Read More» Special Representative for Syria Engagement James F. Jeffrey Remarks to the Traveling Press (October 17) MS ORTAGUS: Do you have something to say first? AMBASSADOR JEFFREY: Yeah, just the Vice President, Mike Pompeo, and National Security Advisor O’Brien came out here to carry out the President’s directive to get a ceasefire as soon as possible in …
Read More» Secretary Pompeo’s Call with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu (October 16) The following is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo spoke yesterday with Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu. Secretary Pompeo reiterated U.S. opposition to Turkey’s military offensive and underscored President Trump’s call for the Turkish Government to stop its invasion …
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