If you plan to vote in the November 2020 election it is important to ACT NOW! Dropboxes are available at the public entrances to the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi and if you choose to drop off your ballot, it must be in a dropbox by noon on Friday, October 23. Dropoff is possible starting at 8:30 am. Place your …
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USAID supports the right of all people to participate in democratic elections and political processes. Along with our partners at the International Republican Institute, we encourage everyone to get out and vote on October 31!
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October 20 The United States is delivering 100 American-made ventilators to Bangladesh as part of the two countries’ growing cooperation in the fight against COVID-19 and other challenges. The donation builds on U.S. efforts to ensure a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region through close collaboration with partner nations. Congratulations Anika Chebrolu! The 14-year-old #IndianAmerican student wins the 2020 #YoungScientist Challenge and $25,000 for a discovery that may …
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The U.S. empowers women around the world through the United States Strategy on Women, Peace, and Security (WPS Strategy). In 2017, the U.S. government signed into law the Women, Peace, and Security Act , becoming the first nation to enact a comprehensive law to promote women’s participation in conflict prevention and peace training. This whole-of-government approach to advance women’s meaningful …
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Who doesn’t like a good scary movie? Or a tale of adventure that spans the dimensions of time and space? The Chinese Communist Party routinely censors movies, newspapers, television and social media within China that criticize its repression in Tibet, its crackdown in Tiananmen Square and, of course, its censorship. But why would the CCP …
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“It is always important to ensure the safety of journalists. Journalists play a vital role in every democracy by keeping the public informed. This is especially true during the Parliamentary election period and when their work is made even more challenging by the COVID pandemic,” Ambassador Degnan told local civil society representatives during a briefing …
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China’s fishing vessels that engage in illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing destroy marine ecosystems. China is also the world’s largest source of plastic pollution, which further devastates fish and ocean life. Learn more by watching this video.
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The Iranian regime has persecuted the Baháʼí religious community since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Members of the Baháʼí faith are arrested on false charges, such as “engaging in espionage.” Baháʼí students are prohibited from attending universities. The regime’s constitution does not recognize the Baháʼí faith , even though the Baháʼí community is one of the largest religious minority groups in Iran. …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The international community has long recognized that the Iranian regime uses the Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) to transport proliferation-sensitive items intended for Iran’s ballistic missile and military programs. A provision of UN Security Council Resolution 1929 mandates vigilance when doing business with IRISL and entities owned or controlled by IRISL under certain …
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As the United States marks Disability Awareness Month, the U.S. government remains committed to the social inclusion of people with disabilities at home and abroad. To contribute to social inclusion in Georgia, today, the U.S. Embassy’s Office of Defense Cooperation (ODC), through its Humanitarian Assistance Program, handed over walking aids for use by disabled people …
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The United States is delivering 100 American-made ventilators to Bangladesh as part of the two countries’ growing cooperation in the fight against COVID-19 and other challenges. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun announced the delivery during his October 12–16 visit to Bangladesh and India in support of two critical and long-standing U.S. alliances. “The United …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On September 19, virtually all UN sanctions on Iran returned , including re-imposition of the UN arms embargo. Accordingly, the export of certain conventional arms to Iran is a violation of UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1929 and the procurement of any arms or related materiel from Iran is a violation of UNSCR 1747. The United States is prepared to use its domestic authorities to sanction any …
Read More» A truly independent, transparent, and accountable judiciary is the foundation of every healthy democracy and the U.S. Embassy continues to work closely with Georgians on strengthening its judiciary. Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan met with representatives of the USAID-supported Coalition for an Independent and Transparent Judiciary, comprised of civil society organizations that play an important …
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The United States is the world’s largest single donor of humanitarian assistance. When more than 168 million people need humanitarian assistance and protection, every country has a responsibility to help. COVID-19 has created the need for even more help and made that help harder to deliver. Watch this video to learn more.
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U.S. researchers’ contributions to the discovery of the hepatitis C virus paved the way for new testing and treatments that have saved millions of lives worldwide. On October 5, two Americans received the 2020 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their efforts fighting the disease. Americans Harvey J. Alter and Charles M. Rice’s efforts …
Read More» It was two weeks ago when I received the diagnosis that so many Americans across our country and the world had already received—I tested positive for COVID-19. To make matters worse, my husband, and our nation’s Commander-in-Chief, received the same news. Naturally my mind went immediately to our son. To our great relief he tested …
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Democracy must be restored in Venezuela because undermining a democracy anywhere is a threat to democracy everywhere, experts say. “This is a country where Maduro has not only taken over most of the bigger opposition parties and tried to replace their leadership with his puppets,” the State Department’s Michael G. Kozak said on September 1, “he’s taken over illegally …
Read More» GENEVA/MOSCOW, 13 October, 2020 – The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stephane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) released the following statement today: The Co-Chairs note with alarm the continuing violence in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The Co-Chairs call on Azerbaijani President Ilham …
Read More» The Minsk Group Co-Chairs (Igor Popov of the Russian Federation, Stéphane Visconti of France, and Andrew Schofer of the United States of America) welcome the joint announcement by Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov, Armenian Foreign Minister Zorab Mnatsakanyan, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on a humanitarian ceasefire and call on the sides to execute …
Read More» Today, the Missions to the United Nations of the United States, Peru, and Sierra Leone co-sponsored an event commemorating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations and the 20th anniversary of the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children. The Protocol – a legally binding international instrument …
Read More» STEPHEN BIEGUN, DEPUTY SECRETARY OF STATE Thank you, Ambassador Richmond, for the introduction. Good morning or evening to everyone participating from around the world, especially our distinguished speakers. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the landmark Protocol to Prevent, Suppress, and Punish Trafficking in Persons in Palermo, Italy. The Protocol stands as proof of the tremendous achievements …
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Today at Juta, Ambassador Kelly Degnan helped open the twelfth Georgian border sector station funded by the U.S. government through the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). On land and sea, the Georgian Border Police provide the Georgian people safety and security. When our partners are safer, so are the American people. This border station …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi echoes Georgia’s concern regarding the cancellation of the October 6-7 round of the Geneva International Discussions (GID) due to the decision of one participant not to attend. The American delegation was fully prepared to attend discussions in Geneva this week, as well as the discussions scheduled for September that were …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, the United States is identifying the Iranian financial sector as subject to the terms of Executive Order (E.O.) 13902 and sanctioning 18 major Iranian banks, further depriving the Islamic Republic of Iran of funds to carry out its support for terrorist activities and nuclear extortion that threatens the world. These sanctions will take effect …
Read More» Q-n about the event Ambassador Kelly Degnan: This is a very important day and I’m very pleased to be here for the signing of this Polling Code of Ethics. The researchers, the polling researchers, the polling organizations, the individual pollsters who have participated in this initiative over the last three months have done some very …
Read More» MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON The United States strongly condemns the terrorist attack near a crowded traffic circle in al Bab yesterday, which according to initial reports killed more than 20 innocent people and injured scores more. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of all the victims of this senseless tragedy. We are deeply troubled by the rise in …
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An assistant professor at Princeton University lets students use code names to shield their identities when discussing topics deemed controversial by the Chinese Communist Party. He’s not alone, says the Wall Street Journal. Why is this happening? Code names are one step U.S. universities are taking to protect foreign students from the authoritarian reach of the …
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The illegitimate Maduro regime has used the COVID-19 pandemic to crack down on anyone who doesn’t comply with Maduro, a Human Rights Watch report says. Since mid-March, “Venezuelan authorities have arbitrarily detained and prosecuted dozens of journalists, health care workers, human rights lawyers and political opponents who criticize the government of Nicolás Maduro,” according to HRW . The organization …
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The United States is imposing additional sanctions against Syrian business and military officials who enable the Bashar al-Assad regime’s brutal crimes, including killings in countless Syrian communities. U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo announced the new sanctions September 30, following the three-year anniversary of the killing of at least 34 Syrians in the town …
Read More» The Department of Defense and the Georgian Ministry of Defense conducted Bilateral Defense Consultations by video teleconference today. The consultations were chaired by Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Laura Cooper and the Georgian First Deputy Minister of Defense Lela Chikovani. The purpose of the consultations was to discuss bilateral security cooperation priorities, share information on …
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The role of the American vice president was the butt of jokes in earlier times, but the job has evolved to bestow more power and carry more importance. Nelson Rockefeller at first resisted being recruited for the position, saying he was “just not built for standby equipment” before accepting the job in the middle of …
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Father Bernhard Lichtenberg endured imprisonment in Berlin during World War II rather than stop publicly supporting Jews and other victims of Nazi brutality. Condemned to a concentration camp, Lichtenberg died during his transfer from prison to Dachau rather than give up his fight for religious freedom. In September 30 remarks at a symposium organized by …
Read More» OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, the Russian Federation, and the Republic of France on October 5, 2020. Begin text: The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Jean-Yves Le Drian, and Secretary of …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States unreservedly condemns the latest attempted assassination of the mayor of Maidan Shar, in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, Mayor Zarifa Ghafari. She is a recipient of the 2020 International Women of Courage award, and this is the sixth assassination attempt she has survived. As I have said before, the future of Afghanistan will not …
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Ambassador Degnan returned to Kakheti last week, visiting Akhmeta, Telavi, Kvareli, and Lagodekhi to see U.S. government investments that are helping farmers and small businesses expand their operations, create more jobs in their communities, and ensure Georgia’s economic prosperity and Western integration benefits all regions. In Akhmeta, dairy farmer Rati Rostomashvili gave the Ambassador a …
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Ambassador Degnan met with the Chairs of the District Election Commission in Telavi to discuss their work to ensure free and fair Parliamentary elections in Kakheti, as part of the U.S. Embassy’s broader efforts to support democratic elections in Georgia. She thanked Commission members for their commitment to assisting voters and ensuring a fair, transparent …
Read More» Location: Outside Freedom Square in downtown Tbilisi Event: A demonstration by the Alliance of Patriots (AOP) is expected to take place on Saturday, October 3 starting at approximately 5pm. U.S. Government personnel have been advised to avoid areas with a large police presence, which is an indicator of large gatherings, and to exercise caution if in the …
Read More» Question about the Cold Storage Facility Ambassador Degnan: I’m very happy to be here to celebrate another success story in the partnership between the United States and Georgia in the agricultural sector. This state-of-the-art cold storage unit is going to help farmers generate more revenue and create more jobs for communities in this region. The …
Read More» The President of the Russian Federation, the President of the United States of America, and the President of the French Republic, representing the Co-Chair countries of the OSCE Minsk Group, condemn in the strongest terms the recent escalation of violence along the Line of Contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone. We deplore the loss of …
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Egregious human rights abuses continue to escalate in Venezuela at the hands of the illegitimate regime of Nicolás Maduro, according to the United Nations. During an oral update on human rights in Venezuela on September 25, U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said that since July 2, “we observed restrictions on freedom of expression, including …
Read More» “On the issues of human dignity and religious freedom, these issues that transcend everyday politics, on the enduring struggle of the individual’s right to believe and worship, we must – and I know we will – march together.” – U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo, October 2, 2019 Secretary Pompeo will visit Vatican City …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning, everyone. Thank you, Ambassador Gingrich, for that incredibly kind introduction. You’ve done wonderful work with this important symposium. I’m glad to be here for the second time. To Your Eminence Cardinal Parolin, thank you for being here. It’s great to see you again too, Archbishop Gallagher. It’s wonderful to be with …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Three years ago yesterday, on September 29, 2017, Assad regime forces, backed by Russia, killed at least 34 Syrians in the town of Armanaz. Since then, thousands of Bashar al-Assad’s bombs have been dropped on schools, hospitals, and markets across Syria. Too many lives have been lost in Assad’s futile search for a military conquest over his own …
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The U.S. is disrupting the Iranian regime’s state-sponsored hacking campaign that has targeted dozens of countries worldwide as well as human rights activists and others within Iran. The U.S. Department of the Treasury has sanctioned more than 40 people and the Rana Intelligence Computing Company, a front company, assisting Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence and Security in hacking hundreds of people and entities in more than 30 …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today the U.S. Department of State announces reward offers of up to $5 million each for information leading to the arrests and/or convictions of Luis Alfredo Motta Dominguez and Eustiquio José Lugo Gómez. In 2015, Motta Dominguez was named President of the National Electricity Corporation (Corpoelec) in Venezuela, and later in the same month, he …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy commends Parliament for adopting amendments to the Georgian Labor Code to protect workers’ rights. Holding employers to internationally recognized labor standards is essential to achieving inclusive growth, enhancing economic stability, and improving the investment climate. For the first time, Georgian workers will be guaranteed overtime pay, layoff benefits, and paternity leave. The …
Read More» If you plan to vote in the November 2020 election it is important to ACT NOW! Don’t wait, return your voted ballot right away! Remember U.S. embassies and consulates are not polling places; same-day in-person voting is not available outside the United States – but you can get assistance in requesting and returning your absentee …
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President @realDonaldTrump just announced a massive expansion in our nation's Coronavirus testing capability! pic.twitter.com/wF0kR0UEU6 — The White House (@WhiteHouse) September 28, 2020
Read More» MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON We are outraged by yesterday’s rocket attack in Baghdad that killed civilians, including a mother and her children. We express our condolences to the innocent Iraqi people and their families who were victims, once again, of these ruthless acts of violence. The Iraqi people deserve to live in safety and security, so we call on …
Read More» Today, the White House released the fourth Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) annual report. This report details the progress and impact of investments made by the United States in GHSA to protect against infectious disease threats and their subsequent adverse effects on global health, security, and the economy. Since 2015, United States Government investments have helped …
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Peace talks underway between Afghanistan’s political leaders and the Taliban represent a historic opportunity for peace after 40 years of war, a senior U.S. official says. Zalmay Khalilzad, the U.S. special representative for Afghanistan reconciliation, told the U.S. Institute of Peace September 24 that the peace negotiations that began September 12 in Doha, Qatar, “require …
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MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, the Department of State is adding American International Services (AIS) to the Cuba Restricted List. AIS is a financial institution controlled by the Cuban military that processes remittances sent to the Cuban people. The Cuban military also uses AIS, its parent company FINCIMEX, and other entities to charge fees and manipulate the remittance and …
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On this somber day 27 years ago, Sokhumi fell. Thousands lost their lives, and hundreds of thousands were forced to leave their homes behind. It is a day of sorrow, memory, and hope in Georgia. To honor the victims of this tragedy and pay tribute to their eternal memory, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan and members …
Read More» MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON Five years ago on September 25, 2015, General Secretary Xi Jinping stood in the White House Rose Garden and stated “China does not intend to pursue militarization” of the Spratly Islands, and China’s outposts would not “target or impact any country.” China has instead pursued a reckless and provocative militarization of those disputed outposts, they …
Read More» MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON The United States is alarmed by reports of large scale military action along the Line of Contact in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone that has resulted in significant casualties, including civilians. We extend our condolences to the families of those killed and injured. The United States condemns in the strongest terms this escalation of violence. Deputy Secretary Biegun called the Foreign Minister …
Read More» “The world needs to unite around the central idea that the Islamic Republic of Iran is the greatest threat, and when that regime changes its behavior, we have the chance to create true global stability in the region. It’s what President @realDonaldTrump asked us to do.” – Secretary Pompeo Tweet, September 21, 2020 Major New Human …
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The United States donated new ultrasound systems to the Rukhi Republican Hospital and Kazbegi Municipality Medical Center to help them increase their capacity to treat patients with COVID-19 and treat patients in remote villages. The donated equipment is worth $50,000 and is used to manage COVID-19 related complications. The ultrasound systems will be a valuable …
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This week we are highlighting the U.S. Government’s initiative Feed the Future which was launched 10 years ago to help partner countries create sustainable, long-term change to end chronic hunger and poverty. Since 2010 Feed the Future has provided over $3.5 billion in agricultural financing, helped farmers generate more than $13.7 billion in agricultural sales, …
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Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan gave remarks at the Cybersecurity Forum 2020 which brought together Georgia’s senior-level officials and other stakeholders to discuss the important issue of cybersecurity and ways to better protect Georgia from cybersecurity threats. Ambassador Degnan spoke about the ways the United States has committed to helping Georgia strengthen its cybersecurity capabilities, …
Read More» Beijing is the world’s largest emitter of greenhouse gases; the largest source of marine debris; the worst perpetrators of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing; and the world’s largest consumer of trafficked wildlife and timber products. While the Chinese people have suffered the worst environmental impacts of its actions, Beijing also threatens the global economy …
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The misrule, oppression and corruption of the illegitimate regime headed by Nicolás Maduro has caused widespread economic suffering and societal collapse in Venezuela. The 2019–2020 National Survey of Living Conditions (ENCOVI, for Encuesta Nacional de Condiciones de Vida) — published by researchers at Andrés Bello Catholic University in Caracas — details how basic infrastructure, the …
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U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo is urging world leaders to recommit to protecting the human rights of all people. Pompeo called for nations to rededicate themselves to the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights at a September 23 panel discussion on the sidelines of the annual U.N. General Assembly meeting. “We must …
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President Trump vows to defeat COVID-19 and urges the United Nations to hold the People’s Republic of China accountable for its role in the early spread of the virus, leading to a global pandemic. In remarks to the United Nations General Assembly on September 22, Trump said that three potential COVID-19 vaccines supported by the United States are in the final stages of testing and that the …
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The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), ratified in 1948, for the first time articulated the rights and freedoms to which every person is entitled. Influenced by the core values at the heart of the U.S. Constitution, the UDHR affirmed “the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace …
Read More» After World War II, the U.S. helped a young United Nations ratify the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. The document was inspired by the principles and values that underpin American democracy. Now, over 70 years later, human rights are still under attack around the world. Learn more about how the U.S. and the …
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U.S. sanctions target bad actors in the Iranian regime, not the people of Iran, former U.S. Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook explains. Learn how the United States does not sanction medical supplies, agricultural products, communication devices or humanitarian aid intended for the Iranian people.
Read More» Q-n about the event Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I am really delighted to be here today for the launch of Election Compass. This is a very important and useful tool to help voters understand the political platforms of different parties. There are 17 parties who have put up the information on where they stand on the …
Read More» Today, the United States imposed sanctions on a network connected to Russian operative Yevgeniy Prigozhin by targeting entities and individuals working on his behalf to advance Russia’s influence in the Central African Republic (CAR). The United States is also targeting actors involved in supporting the activities of the Federal Security Service, also known as the …
Read More» SECRETARY POMPEO: Thanks, everyone. Good morning. Make sure we got that right. Well, good morning, everyone. It’s great to be back here. It’s great to be back in the Midwest. When I was flying in today, it looked a little like Kansas, made me warm all over. Thanks. Looks like we’re going to get some …
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The United States is imposing sanctions to block the Iranian regime’s nuclear, ballistic missile and conventional arms programs and to curb the spread of violence by Iran in the Middle East and beyond. President Trump issued an executive order September 21 supporting the indefinite extension of the U.N. arms embargo on Iran. Virtually all U.N. …
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INTRODUCTION The United States is working with a global coalition of countries in support of the Venezuelan people as they fight to restore democracy and rebuild the economy in their country, which currently suffers under the repressive and corrupt misrule of the dictator Nicolas Maduro and his illegitimate regime. We recognize and support interim President Juan Guaido and the National Assembly, which is the sole remaining legitimate …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, the United States is sanctioning, José Bernabé Gutiérrez Parra, Miguel Antonio José Ponente Parra, Guillermo Antonio Luces Osorio, Chaim José Bucaran Paraguan, and Williams José Benavides Rondón for their complicity in enabling Maduro’s efforts to rob the people of Venezuela of their right to choose their leaders in free and fair elections. This action …
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Zhang Jialong, a former journalist and anti-censorship activist, faced trial in China in May after criticizing the Chinese government on Twitter. Chinese authorities reportedly charged Zhang with “ picking quarrels and provoking trouble.” He is just the latest victim of the Chinese Communist Party’s continued detention of reporters, lawyers and human rights activists as part of the …
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U.S. leadership in vaccine development and infectious disease treatment is vital to ongoing efforts to combat COVID-19 worldwide. U.S. research is responsible for vaccines that protect the world’s citizens from deadly infectious diseases like yellow fever, measles and polio. In addition, the U.S. continues to invest billions worldwide to combat HIV/AIDS. Lessons learned from these …
Read More» The Trump Administration has made clear that the United States will do whatever it takes to prevent the Islamic Republic of Iran, the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism and anti-Semitism, from spreading death and mayhem throughout the Middle East and the world. Rather than wait for the day that Iran threatens the world with …
Read More» “Our message is very, very simple: the United States will never allow the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism to freely buy and sell planes, tanks, missiles, and other kinds of conventional weapons. These UN sanctions will continue the arms embargo.” – Secretary Pompeo, August 20, 2020. “When we’ve seen any country violate our current sanctions, the …
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It was hoped that the Iran nuclear deal would “moderate” the world’s leading sponsor of terrorism, but that didn’t happen. Instead, in the two years and 10 months before President Trump pulled the United States from the agreement on May 8, 2018, Iran’s leaders used revenues from the deal to increase the regime’s military spending and terrorist financing . “During this nuclear deal …
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Southeast Asian countries are pushing back against the Chinese government’s aggression in the South China Sea . A recent example of this aggression occurred in early April when the People’s Republic of China (PRC) sank a Vietnamese fishing vessel in the vicinity of the Paracel Islands. “This incident is the latest in a long string of PRC actions …
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Iran’s regime arbitrarily arrested thousands of protesters following nationwide demonstrations in November 2019, torturing dozens and sentencing several to death, a new report says. Amnesty International, in a report issued September 2 , says the Iranian regime prosecuted more than 500 protesters on sham charges and describes a “torture epidemic,” including flogging, electric shocks and mock executions. “The Iranian authorities …
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Today, we mourn the loss of a trailblazer, not only in the field of law, but in the history of our country. Ruth Bader Ginsburg served more than 27 years as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States and was an inspiration to all Americans. She worked tirelessly for more than …
Read More» Today, America mourns the passing of a true public servant, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Justice Ginsburg led an inspiring life, and her storied career paved the way for women in the law. As an advocate and an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, she was a champion for women whose tireless determination reshaped our national …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States remains the largest single donor of humanitarian and development assistance around the world, including for Venezuelans in need, because doing our part to respond to global crisis situations is a national security priority. The United States is demonstrating our continued commitment to the Venezuelan people and our response to the …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The Trump Administration has always understood that the greatest threat to peace in the Middle East comes from Islamic Republic of Iran, whose violent efforts to spread revolution have killed thousands and upended the lives of millions of innocent people. History shows appeasement only emboldens such regimes. Thus today, the United States welcomes the return …
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Today, Georgia’s Vaziani military base hosted the fifth Noble Partner closing ceremony and Live Fire Exercise. Each year this multi-national exercise demonstrates how allied forces are continuing to work and train together, even under the demanding conditions of the COVID pandemic. The Noble Partner exercise reaffirms U.S. commitment to Georgia as a key strategic partner, …
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The United States is proud to continue to work with our Georgian partners to protect the health and safety of the people of Georgia. Today, the U.S. Embassy delivered the final batch of its PPE assistance to the Central Election Commission. This donation of over $73,000 worth of latex gloves, face shield masks, and disinfectants …
Read More» As the leader in global health and humanitarian response to COVID-19, the United States has acted swiftly to monitor, respond to, and mitigate the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic in Pacific Island countries. The Department of State is closely coordinating with U.S. interagency partners including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Department of Health and Human …
Read More» The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine. Begin Text: We, the …
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Iranian lawmakers have proposed banning all foreign-owned social messaging apps and replacing them with domestic versions run by the regime. Dozens of lawmakers have signed the August 24 proposal to create a committee to license and monitor domestic social networking sites and impose punishments of up to two years in prison for violating the new …
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The U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi is proud to announce that the Jvari Monastery preservation project was selected by Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP). The ongoing preservation works also funded by the U.S. Government will now extend to cover the entire outer sandstone masonry of the building, including all four facades and all eight sides …
Read More» September 16th marks International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. Although there would be no life without sunlight, the energy emanating from the sun would be too much for life on Earth to thrive without the protection afforded by the ozone-layer. Scientists raised the alarm when they discovered in the 1970s that human …
Read More» MS ORTAGUS: Thank you so much and good afternoon, everybody. I know we’re having this call right after we did the press conference with the Secretary and we have another briefing later today, so apologies that we’re piling all of you up today. We’re going to try to allow for as much time as possible for …
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Women play increasingly important roles in all branches of the U.S. military, with another milestone in 2020. In July, a National Guard soldier became the first woman to complete a Special Operations training course and join an operational team since that became possible with the 2015 lifting of the combat ban. She is also the …
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The illegitimate Maduro regime wants Venezuelans to denounce their neighbors who are sick with COVID-19, calling them “bioterrorists.” Nicolás Maduro’s National Bolivarian Armed Forces of Venezuela encouraged citizens to look for sick Venezuelans, saying a returning migrant “is a bioterrorist who puts everyone’s health at risk.” They also provided an email address and asked anyone with information …
Read More» Q-n about the event Ambassador Kelly Degnan: This was a very useful and important meeting of the working group, and we appreciate having a chance to continue the discussion about this critically important draft legislation. It is designed to further strengthen Georgia’s judicial process by improving transparency and accountability even further. There have been some …
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American debates have changed much since the days when an Illinois lawyer held the nation spellbound with his moral arguments against slavery. That was 1858, and the arguments of Abraham Lincoln, who was debating Stephen Douglas, didn’t lead to Lincoln’s winning the Senate seat he sought. Nevertheless, transcripts were distributed throughout the country and became …
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U.S. Embassy Tbilisi’s Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is supporting Georgian national research studies at the National Center for Disease Control/Lugar Center on SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19. DTRA donated three surrogate virus neutralization test kits, manufactured in New Jersey, which offer a novel technology for determining neutralization antibody levels to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This offers key …
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This week, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan traveled to the region of Guria, including a visit to the bottling plant “Bakhmaro,” where she discussed economic development in the region. JSC “Healthy Water” (Tskali Margebeli) produces popular national products Nabeghlavi mineral water and Bakhmaro still water. The Ambassador also toured the Supsa Oil Terminal, which provides storage …
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Time will not erase our memories of 9/11. 19 years later, we are still stronger together. Today we remember and mourn all those killed or left permanently injured in the terrorist attacks on that fateful day. We honor the courage and selflessness of all the brave men and women, firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and citizens who selflessly volunteered in those first moments to …
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Today, A/DCM Catherine Schweitzer, Defense Attaché COL Stephanie Bagley, and Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Ioseb Chelidze witnessed the Georgian Emergency Management Services receive their primary transportation and delivery systems from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency. In addition to the ceremony for the official transfer, A/DCM Schweitzer also saw firsthand the use of the equipment …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, we remember and honor the nearly 3,000 people who were killed in the terrorist attacks in our country 19 years ago on September 11. We have made great strides to defeat al-Qa’ida and other terrorist groups that seek to do us harm, and our efforts to protect our homeland continue today. The men and …
Read More» Q-n about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I have had a wonderful visit to Guria, from start to finish. Very interesting to learn about some of the efforts here to generate development in the tourism area, to improve vocational training for the wide variety of services that will be needed to support greater tourism, to …
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Construction firms owned by the People’s Republic of China are harming the environment and threatening the economies and sovereignty of nations worldwide. China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) is advancing the PRC’s military expansion into the South China Sea through large-scale dredging, construction and militarization of artificial islands and disputed outposts. Further, CCCC drives Beijing’s “One …
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The U.S. government is taking steps to address forced labor camps in China’s Xinjiang region. The Chinese Communist Party is repressing millions of Uyghurs and other mostly Muslim ethnic minorities there, using “re-education” camps, forced sterilization, and destruction of religious sites. The U.S. is blocking the import of goods made with forced labor, sanctioning Chinese …
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The Global Innovation Index ranks the United States as the highest-spending country on research and development. With research and development spending of more than a half-trillion dollars in a recent year, as reported by the National Science Foundation, U.S. labs have turned to the challenges posed by the new coronavirus. Private businesses do the lion’s …
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The U.S. Department of State has provided $350 million in migration and refugee assistance (MRA) funding for the international COVID-19 response in countries around the world since the onset of the pandemic. U.S. funding provides protection and addresses increased vulnerability created by the pandemic for refugees, migrants and host communities through international organization partners, including …
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After a 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti in 2010, the U.S. government gave the country $1 billion in aid, with the U.S. Department of Defense sending the most money, according to the Foreign Aid Explorer database. The U.S. Agency for International Development’s database can tell you which U.S. government agency spent the most on foreign aid in a given …
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In September 2001, after terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York, the Maasai people of Kenya tried to send 14 cows to the people of America. Wilson Kimeli Naiyomah, who had come up with the idea, explained: “To heal a sorrowing heart, give something that is dear to your own.” The cows, sacred …
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The United States has imposed sanctions on senior Iranian officials responsible for continuing the regime’s long-standing persecution of religious minorities. Iran’s constitution states that it protects the equal rights of “all people of Iran.” Yet since 1979 the regime has systematically harassed, arrested and executed members of religious minorities, the U.S. Commission on International Religious …
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Q-n about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: This was a very informative and interesting meeting with the Auditor General, looking into the importance of accountability and transparency in the government institutions. USAID and the United States have been working with the State Auditor’s Office since 2011 on building this capacity, and it is truly inspiring …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, the Chinese Communist Party’s main propaganda newspaper, the People’s Daily, refused to run an Op-ed written by our Ambassador in Beijing, Terry Branstad, citing a litany of grievances. Ironically, the Op-ed called for more positive relations between our two countries and asked to “build relationships through unrestricted engagement and uncensored discussion.” The People’s Daily’s …
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The final stage of testing is underway in the United States on three potential vaccines for COVID-19, a major step toward delivering a vaccine to the world in record time. The U.S. National Institutes of Health announced August 31 that AstraZeneca was starting phase 3 clinical testing of a potential vaccine. It was one of …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States is deeply concerned by the reported abduction September 7 in Belarus of Coordination Council member Mariya Kalesnikava, Spokesman Anton Rodnenkou, and Executive Secretary Ivan Krautsou, and the attempted forced expulsion over the border to Ukraine September 8. We commend the courage of Ms. Kalesnikava and of the Belarusian people in peacefully asserting …
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Hackers and intellectual property thieves with the People’s Republic of China are attacking countries worldwide. Thieves working to advance the PRC’s military and economic development goals have targeted a German pharmaceutical giant, semiconductor producers in Taiwan, and high-tech manufacturers in countries from the U.S. to South Korea to Australia. U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo …
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ღირსეული პარტნიორი 2020-ის გახსნა ღირსეული პარტნიორი 2020-ის გახსნა#NoblePartner 20 #ძალაპარტნიორობაშია #StrengththroughPartnership Posted by საქართველოს თავდაცვის სამინისტრო / Ministry of Defence of Georgia on Sunday, September 6, 2020 Today, September 7, is the official opening of the Joint Exercise “Noble Partner 2020.” Noble Partner 20 is an exercise cooperatively led by the Georgian Defense Force and U.S. Army Europe and hosted at Georgia’s Vaziani and Camp Norio training areas. …
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Today the United States celebrates Labor Day. This holiday is a time for workers, employers, and governments to re-commit to workers and labor rights, including their safety and health in the workplace. The U.S. labor movement created our annual Labor Day holiday, which is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. Oregon …
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The late Barbara Bush, wife of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush, once said , “If we don’t give everyone the ability to simply read and write, then we aren’t giving everyone an equal chance to succeed.” The American people, U.S. businesses and organizations share Mrs. Bush’s sentiment and work in myriad ways to help the 750 …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States Responds to the Maduro Regime’s Attempts to Corrupt Democratic Elections in Venezuela Today, the United States is sanctioning, under Executive Order 13692, David Eugenio de Lima Salas, Reinaldo Enrique Muñoz Pedroza, Indira Maira Alfonzo Izaguirre, and Jose Luis Gutierrez Parra in light of their involvement in Maduro’s efforts to manipulate the Venezuelan National Assembly and …
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Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan joined Minister of Foreign Affairs of Georgia David Zalkaliani to announce the U.S. Embassy and the InformationCenter on NATO and the EU will continue their partnership for two more years to provide information to Georgians at 13 regional centers about Georgia’s Euro-Atlantic integration. Georgia’s western integration process contributes to the …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi is appalled by reports of a cyberattack carried out on September 1 against the computer system of the Georgian Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labor, Health and Social Affairs. The irresponsible attack attempted to illegally access pandemic management information stored in the databases of the Ministry …
Read More» MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON The United States has long been the world’s most generous provider of health and humanitarian assistance to people around the world. This assistance is provided with the support of the American taxpayer with the reasonable expectation that it serve an effective purpose and reach those in need. Unfortunately, the World Health Organization has failed badly …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The Maduro regime’s announcement of conditional dismissal of criminal charges against roughly one-third of the political prisoners it holds does not solve, nor even address, Venezuela’s underlying political crisis. Hundreds of political prisoners remain, and like those now offered house arrest or an end (for the moment) to their criminal cases, none of these Venezuelans …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Today, the Department of State imposed sanctions on five entities under section 3(a)(ii) of Executive Order (E.O.) 13846 for knowingly engaging in a significant transaction for the purchase, acquisition, sale, transport, or marketing of petroleum or petroleum products from Iran. The Department of State also imposed sanctions under section 5(a)(vii) of E.O. 13846 on three …
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Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan met with Bishop Melkhisedek Khachidze of Margveti and Ubisa. During the meeting, the Ambassador and the Bishop exchanged their views on a multitude of topics, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ambassador expressed her appreciation to Bishop Melkhisedek for his partnership, and particularly for his outspoken support for the Richard Lugar …
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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), continues to support Georgia to strengthen its agricultural systems under the project “Enhancing Implementation and Efficiency of National Sanitary and Phytosanitary Capacity for Georgia through Training and Education”. A vital component of USDA’s efforts to enhance Georgia’s ability to participate in international markets includes the design and implementation of …
Read More» Briefing With Nerissa Cook, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Bureau of International Organization Affairs; Garrett Grigsby, Director of the Office of Global Affairs, Department of Health and Human Services; and Dr. Alma Golden, Assistant Administrator for Global Health, USAID On the U.S. Government’s Next Steps With Regard to Withdrawal From the World Health Organization …
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On Labor Day, which falls on the first Monday in September in the United States, many workers will take a well-earned rest and all Americans will reflect on the importance of workers’ rights. This year, Labor Day will be an especially fitting time to honor the resilient workers who have helped America stay strong during …
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In spite of its dismal record on human rights, Cuba’s government is seeking a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2021–2023 term. “It’s outrageous that the Human Rights Council would offer to seat Cuba, a brutal dictatorship that traffics its own doctors under the guise of humanitarian missions,” Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo said on August …
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On September 1, as a part of exercise Noble Partner 2020, a total of 200 paratroopers of the U.S. Army 173rd Airborne Brigade parachuted into Vaziani Training Area. Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan joined Minister of Defense Irakli Gharibashvili, NATO LANDCOM Commander Lieutenant General Roger Cloutier, and U.S. Defense Attaché to Georgia COL Stephanie Bagley to view …
Read More» Today, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, and the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security are issuing an advisory on North Korea’s ballistic missile procurement activities. The advisory identifies key procurement entities and deceptive techniques used by North …
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The U.S. is taking action against the Iranian regime’s weapons programs to stop it from spreading violence across the Middle East and beyond. U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo recently announced new sanctions blocking trade with Iran in certain metals that support the regime’s weapons programs. The U.S. has also moved to extend the …
Read More» Q-n about the event Ambassador Kelly Degnan: This is a milestone event, and I am very pleased to be here to celebrate with so many others who have worked so hard on the passage and entry into force of Georgia’s Code of the Rights of Children. This has taken a lot of work by many …
Read More» 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 recovery best practices. The Vice President discussed continued efforts to protect the most vulnerable including the …
Read More» “The one-sided nuclear deal didn’t bring security for America, stability in the Middle East, or a change in the regime’s behavior – it never will. Re-establishing the @UN Arms Embargo on Iran puts pressure Iran to behave like a normal country and come back to the bargaining table.” –Secretary Pompeo Tweet, August 27, 2020 DESIGNATIONS FOR …
Read More» Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for calling this important meeting today. And it is an honor to be here with all of you. Earlier this week, I had the privilege of meeting in Vilnius with Belarusian opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. I was inspired by her courage and resolve to advocate for the Belarusian people in their …
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The People’s Republic of China must now reveal more about its role in supporting Confucius Institutes’ activities on U.S. college campuses, which include propaganda and censorship. The U.S. Department of State on August 13 designated the Washington-based headquarters of the Confucius Institute network a foreign mission of the PRC. Under the designation , the Confucius Institute U.S. Center …
Read More» WIESBADEN, Germany — Approximately 2,800 military members from the nations of Georgia, Poland, the United Kingdom and the United States will participate in exercise Noble Partner Sept. 7-18, in Georgia. Noble Partner 20 is a Georgian Defense Force and U.S. Army Europe cooperatively-led exercise hosted at Vaziani and Camp Norio training areas in Georgia. U.S. …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States is dismayed to learn that the Chinese Communist Party’s coercive bullying tactics against our friends in the United Kingdom continues. In the latest example, British bank HSBC has reportedly prevented Hong Kong-based executives at Next Media, a well-known publisher of pro-democracy publications, from accessing their credit cards and personal bank accounts. The …
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Cybersecurity experts from the U.S. Cyber Command are working with other nations to identify malware and network attacks. Cyberattacks undermine elections and threaten democracy. By working with host nations, Cyber Command has identified more than 40 malware samples since 2018. The best way to fight cyberattacks and false information campaigns is to expose the weapons used in the attack. When an …
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Freedom of religion is under attack in Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela, due to authoritarian regimes determined to control expressions of faith. Dictators in the countries, or their proxies, have burned churches and harassed or teargassed worshipers, U.S. Agency for International Development Acting Administrator John Barsa told an August 20 discussion on religious freedom in the …
Read More» Recently, our Nation celebrated the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to our Constitution. On the commemoration of this historic day, I was proud to issue a Proclamation honoring the women’s suffrage movement and sign a full pardon for one of its greatest leaders, Susan B. Anthony, who was unjustly convicted for voting on …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States is deeply concerned by reported preliminary conclusions from German medical experts that Russian opposition activist Aleksey Navalny was poisoned. If the reports prove accurate, the United States supports the EU’s call for a comprehensive investigation and stands ready to assist in that effort. Mr. Navalny’s family and the Russian people deserve to see a full and transparent investigation carried out, …
Read More» Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Joey Hood and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Iraq David Copley, Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs On the Recent U.S.-Iraq Strategic Dialogue MR BROWN: Thank you. Good afternoon everyone and thanks for joining us today for this on-the-record briefing on the U.S.-Iraq strategic dialogue which, as you’ll recall, Secretary Pompeo hosted …
Read More» On August 21, the U.S. Department of State announced visa restrictions on 14 Iranian individuals for their involvement in gross violations of human rights on behalf of the Iranian regime, the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism. This action was taken pursuant to Section 7031(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations …
Read More» Thirty-three countries from around the globe, including members of the Lima Group and the International Contact Group and some European Union member states, signed a joint declaration calling for democracy in Venezuela. The declaration , released August 14, is a call “to put the interests of Venezuela above politics and engage urgently in support of a process …
Read More» On behalf of the entire community of the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi, I wish to express our deepest condolences for the tragic loss of seventeen lives in Shatili on August 23. We hold in our thoughts those who perished, as well as those who mourn their loss, during this difficult time. May you find comfort …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On behalf of the United States government and the American people, I send my congratulations to the people of Ukraine on the 29th anniversary of your nation’s independence. Our support for a free, resilient, and democratic Ukraine is unwavering. We remain fully committed to diplomatic efforts to end Russia’s ongoing aggression in eastern Ukraine. As …
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The U.S. is restoring U.N. sanctions against the Islamic Republic of Iran to ensure the regime cannot buy and sell advanced weapons systems or build a nuclear bomb. U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo announced the move at the United Nations on August 20 and called for international support in addressing the Iranian regime’s …
Read More» “Our message is very, very simple: the United States will never allow the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism to freely buy and sell planes, tanks, missiles, and other kinds of conventional weapons. These UN sanctions will continue the arms embargo.” –Secretary Pompeo Remarks, August 20,2020 Statement by Secretary Pompeo On Designations for Iranian Human …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE On this third annual International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, the United States stands with the victims of terrorism and their families. The pain and suffering caused by terrorism is a heavy burden that the American people know all too well. We honor the strength and resilience of terrorism victims …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Friday, August 21 marks the annual Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism. To both remember and honor these victims, today the U.S. Department of State is announcing visa restrictions on 14 Iranian individuals for their involvement in gross violations of human rights on behalf of the Iranian regime, the world’s leading …
Read More» The United States is leading the global response to COVID-19 with foreign assistance funding. The U.S. Government (USG) has allocated $20.5 billion for the development of vaccines and therapeutics, preparedness efforts, and other foreign assistance. Our global efforts build upon decades of U.S. investment in life-saving health and humanitarian assistance, and we continue to ensure …
Read More» Q-n about the event Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I am very happy to be here for the signing of the feasibility study about the Bakhvi One Hydropower Plant. It’s a sign not only of Georgia’s leadership in this area of green energy, but also another step in the cooperation between Georgia and the United States and …
Read More» PRESIDENT TRUMP: Thank you very much. It’s great to have the Prime Minister of Iraq, a very highly respected gentleman all over the Middle East, and respected very much by our country, too. I can say that. And we will be discussing, today, the obvious: defense — and offense, I have to say. But we’ll …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE Tomorrow will mark the seventh anniversary of the Assad regime’s chemical weapons attack in Ghouta which killed over 1,400 Syrians. Today, in memory of the victims of that brutality, the United States is announcing six sanctions against the Assad regime’s military, government, and financial supporters. As we continue to implement the goals of the Caesar …
Read More» We are outraged by the targeted assassinations of civil society activists and attacks on protesters in Basrah and Baghdad. It is unconscionable that the perpetrators of these horrible acts continue to act with impunity. Since October of last year, peaceful demonstrators have taken to the streets to urge government reform. They have been met with …
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In 1839, the Amistad cargo schooner sailed from Havana to Puerto Principe, Cuba, with 53 Africans bound for a life of slavery on the island. But while aboard the schooner, the Africans fought for their freedom. Their battle gained them a reprieve. And soon, American abolitionists would take up their fight in U.S. courts. The Africans — …
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Researchers at the U.S. and Singapore–based company Avago spent more than 20 years developing technology to improve wireless communication. But an employee stole that technology to benefit the Chinese government. U.S. officials cited that theft as one example of the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) “expansive approach” to stealing technology and intellectual property. Its goal? To …
Read More» The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the Republic of Iraq. Begin Text: The Government of Iraq, led by Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, and the Government of United States, led by Secretary of State Michael Pompeo, held a meeting of the Higher Coordinating Committee …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The United States welcomes the guilty verdict handed down by the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL) against Hizballah operative Salim Ayyash for his role in the February 14, 2005 assassination of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. This act of terrorism also claimed the lives of 21 additional victims and resulted in injuries to 226 …
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The illegitimate Maduro regime has been promoting its unconstitutional reshaping of the election of Venezuela’s National Assembly members with the social media tag #ParticipaYElige — “participate and choose.” Nicolás Maduro’s attempt to undermine the election process of National Assembly members is further evidence of the regime’s deepening corruption, said Elliott Abrams, the U.S. Department of …
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U.S. Ambassador to Georgia Kelly C. Degnan joined CEC Chairperson Tamar Zhvania in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to open a new USAID-supported cybersecurity server center. Georgia’s continued democratic development depends on greater resilience to malign influence, including cyberattacks. Ambassador Degnan highlighted the U.S. Government’s strong partnership with Georgia to protect the upcoming Parliamentary elections from …
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Ambassador Degnan participates in the opening of Georgia’s 18th McDonald’s restaurant Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan highlighted new jobs and opportunities created by the opening of the 18th Mcdonald’s restaurant in Georgia. The Ambassador was pleased to be a part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the expansion of the iconic American brand. Anew restaurant means …
Read More» MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The Trump Administration sees Huawei for what it is – an arm of the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP’s) surveillance state – and we have taken action accordingly. Today, our government enacted several measures to protect U.S. national security, our citizens’ privacy, and the integrity of our 5G infrastructure from Beijing’s malign influence. The Department of …
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President Trump has brokered a historic deal between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, normalizing relations between the two countries and laying a foundation for peace in the Middle East. “Our vision is one of peace, security, and prosperity — in this region, and in the world,” Trump said in an August 13 statement announcing …
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The United States has imposed sanctions against Chinese Communist Party officials for their role in the crackdown on Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedoms. The U.S. Department of the Treasury issued sanctions August 7 that target Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam and 10 other senior officials, including several who helped develop or implement the Hong Kong National Security Law passed …
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Ambassador Degnan visits Ministry of Internal Affairs Crime Laboratory Today, Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan congratulates the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MOIA) on achieving internationally recognized accreditation of their Fingerprint, Facial Recognition, and Questioned Documents/Handwriting examination sections during her visit to the MOIA Crime Laboratory. The U.S. Embassy has supported the development of criminal forensics …
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The United States has allocated $20.5 billion in aid to the global COVID-19 fight, including $53 million in Department of State and U.S. Agency for International Development foreign assistance funding. “The United States continues to lead the world in the fight against COVID-19,” Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo said August 5 while announcing the …
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Vaccines need to be safe and effective to protect the public. Responsible governments are working to find a vaccine for COVID-19 using accepted scientific standards.
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China’s Houston consulate a center of malign activity The Chinese consulate in Houston, Texas, “was a hub of spying and intellectual property theft,” said U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo. The July 23 closure of the consulate is part of U.S. efforts to push back against the Chinese Communist Party’s violations of U.S. …
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Meet the U.S. scientist who invented the N95 mask filter When, in the 1990s, Peter Tsai invented the material that made the N95 mask possible, he never expected it would save millions of lives decades later. Now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the mask — which can trap viruses and bacteria — is used by …
Read More» AMBASSADOR CURRIE: Good afternoon, everyone, and thank you joining us here at the State Department. I am Kelley Currie, the Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women’s Issues here, and it’s my pleasure to welcome you here to the department today as we recognize and celebrate the progress and partnerships achieved through the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity …
Read More» “Secure 5G networks will absolutely be a vital link to America’s prosperity and national security in the 21st century.” President Donald J. Trump FREEING UP RESOURCES: President Donald J. Trump is taking decisive action to release more spectrum for commercial use, strengthening the United States’ leadership in 5G communications. At the President’s direction, the Administration …
Read More» 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 recovery best practices. Chief of the National Guard Bureau, General Hokanson briefed on President Donald J. …
Read More» Tomorrow, Tuesday, August 11, at 2:00 p.m., Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun will host the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Virtual Event at the U.S. Department of State to celebrate the launch of the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity (W-GDP) Initiative Pillar Three Action Plans and USAID Fund. The event will include official …
Read More» The Secretary’s “Emergency Certification Was Properly Executed” and “Complied with the Requirements” of Law The State Department Office of Inspector General (OIG) has confirmed in a final report that the Department acted in complete accordance with the law and found no wrongdoing in the Administration’s exercise of emergency authorities available under the Arms Export Control …
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Several Middle East nations are pressing the U.N. Security Council to renew the arms embargo against Iran’s regime, saying that letting the restriction lapse would cause “anarchy.” Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Israel have all called for renewing the embargo that is scheduled to expire in October. The countries blame Iran’s leaders for arming terrorist and …
Read More» This year marks the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution , which granted American women — in effect, white women — the right to vote. While it took several more decades — and the civil rights movement — for all U.S. women to be legally allowed to vote, the 19th Amendment was a big …
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Twelve years have passed since Russia invaded the Georgian regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia. August 7 is a somber reminder of the thousands who have suffered and continue to suffer in the wake of Russia’s invasion. Today, we remember residents forced out of their homes and forced to live as internally displaced persons. We …
Read More» The United Nations arms embargo on Iran expires in October. If it is not extended, Iran can supply weapons that fuel conflicts such as those in Lebanon and Yemen. The weapons could be used to attack Israel or Saudi Arabia. Without the embargo, Iran can sell weapons around the world to dictators such as Nicolás …
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.
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This week Ambassador Degnan visited the beautiful region of Imereti. On the first day of her trip, the Ambassador toured the charming city of Kutaisi and the historic Okros Chardakhi Palace, where she heard the magnificent sounds of Georgian polyphonic singers performing traditional folk music. The Ambassador met with Governor Zviad Shalamberidze and Acting Mayor …
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Ambassador Kelly C. Degnan gave opening remarks at the annual Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Awards Ceremony. This event highlights the important work vocational schools do to help build Georgia’s human capital and establish a workforce necessary to drive the country’s economic growth. Originally established by the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and currently …
Read More» Q-n about the importance of the Technical and Vocational Education Training Program Ambassador Degnan: Tonight was the fourth annual awards ceremony for the Technical and Vocational Education Training Program that the Millennium Foundation and the United States government support, along with the Ministry of Education. This is an important event to recognize the commitment, the …
Read More» Ambassador Kelly Degnan: The United States is very proud to support the Georgian Government and the United Airports of Georgia in their effort to expand the Kutaisi airport. We’ve just done a tour of the new facility that is underway right now and it’s going to increase the flow of passengers almost five times, as …
Read More» Q-n about the event Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I had a very interesting and useful briefing by the command here. The colonel reviewed the different missions that the western operational command plays, the vital role the western operational command plays in defending this part of Georgia, the very important role his men and women played in …
Read More» Q-n about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I had a very good meeting with Governor Shalamberidze. We talked about local government, the important role that citizens play in making sure that their local officials know their concerns and priorities and are responsive to their concerns and priorities. We talked also about the upcoming elections and the preparations to …
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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» Q-n about the importance of World Hepatitis Day Ambassador Kelly Degnan: Today is World Hepatitis Day, declared by the World Health Organization back in 2011. What is really important here is that Georgia is once again a leader in the effort to eliminate this devastating disease. Seventy thousand Georgians have been treated, tested; almost 70% …
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 …
Read More» Q-n about importance of Ken Walker University Clinic for Media Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I am very proud to be here for the opening of the Ken Walker University Clinic for Medical Rehabilitation. This is an excellent example of what private companies, universities, USAID and the Georgian Government can do together, to help a sector of …
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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. helps Caribbean countries fight COVID-19 (July 23) The U.S. government is providing financial assistance and technical support to multiple Caribbean nations fighting COVID-19. Assistance ranges from distribution of medical or protective equipment to support for programs in which young leaders engage students while schools are closed. The U.S. Department of Defense has delivered …
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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. private sector helps ASEAN fight COVID-19 (July 22) U.S. businesses have donated at least $40 million to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in the fight against COVID-19 . “America’s partnership with ASEAN, now in its 43rd year, is at the heart of our vision for the Indo-Pacific,” said Health and Human Services Deputy Secretary …
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Tracking COVID-19 with artificial intelligence (July 22) Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a powerful tool for tracking and treating COVID-19 in the U.S. and abroad. Several U.S. institutions are developing new AI technology or using preexisting technology to monitor and treat the new coronavirus. HealthMap, an AI application run by Boston Children’s Hospital, was launched …
Read More» The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania on the occasion of the 80th Anniversary of the Welles Declaration. Begin Text: Today we celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the Welles Declaration, which laid the foundation for the United States of America’s non-recognition …
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The Welles Declaration is a proud moment in the history of U.S. foreign policy and friendship with the peoples of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Eighty years ago, the United States pointedly refused to recognize the illegal incorporation of the Baltic states into the Soviet Union. The Soviet Union’s criminal act was accomplished through the signing …
Read More» U.S. Embassy Tbilisi Resumes Limited Visa Services (July 22) We are pleased to announce that starting the week of July 20, the consular section at U.S. Embassy Tbilisi has resumed the processing of limited categories of nonimmigrant visa applications, including F, M, J, and C1/D visas. Students who hold valid F and M visas …
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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)
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U.S. warns of business risks from China’s abuses (July 20) The PRC's human rights abuses in Xinjiang put businesses at risk of exposing their supply chains to forced labor and other abuses. Businesses must do their due diligence to avoid reputational, economic, and legal risks. Don’t be complicit. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) July 1, 2020 The United …
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Iran’s regime continues persecution of human rights defenders (July 20) Protesters, journalists and women who refuse to wear a hijab all risk facing trial in Iran. But many of the lawyers trained to fight for those defendants are already in jail. According to a recent report from the Center for Human Rights in Iran, …
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Celebrate Space Exploration Day with a look at the 1st lunar landing [photo gallery] (July 20) Celebrate Space Exploration Day by looking up at the sky on July 20 and reflecting on human achievements in space and all that’s to come . On July 20, 1969, U.S. astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first humans to …
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 …
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This 1990 disabilities law ushered in a new era (July 20) When President George H.W. Bush signed the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act into law on July 26, 1990, he specifically mentioned Lisa Carl, a young woman with cerebral palsy. Two years before joining the president for that signing ceremony, Carl had gone to …
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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From civil rights activist to member of Congress: Remembering John Lewis (July 20) Civil rights hero and U.S. Representative John Lewis died July 17 at the age of 80. He had been battling pancreatic cancer since he received the diagnosis in December. The son of Alabama sharecroppers, Lewis was a central figure in the U.S. civil …
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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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Authoritarian regimes’ unclear laws make anyone a suspect (July 16) For laws to be just, they must be clear. Citizens must know what is — and is not — against the law. Precise language helps ensure that laws are enforced fairly. But some countries take advantage of their unclear laws. The Chinese government regularly …
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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, …
Read More» 20 years of aid: America’s ongoing support for Africa’s public health (July 15) Over the past 20 years, the United States has invested more than $100 billion in the health of sub-Saharan African nations. This makes the United States the largest donor in the world to sub-Saharan Africa and a leading partner in fighting COVID-19 . The U.S. has already …
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What does it mean when your technology comes from China? (July 15) When your technology comes from companies headquartered in China, it often comes with strings attached. China’s National Intelligence Law requires all Chinese companies to secretly cooperate with the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) intelligence services and security agencies. U.S. Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo says that while the CCP has …
Read More» Why the U.N. must extend the Iran arms embargo (July 15) The U.N. arms embargo against Iran should not be lifted. If the embargo expires in October, as currently scheduled, Iran’s regime could import tanks and fighter planes to threaten its neighbors. Without the restriction, Iran will become the arms dealer of choice for rogue …
Read More» U.S. Embassy Tbilisi statement on Parliament’s adoption of legislation on the rights of persons with disabilities (July 14) The U.S. Embassy congratulates Parliament on adopting Georgia’s Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This law establishes fundamental principles to guide the government’s implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan’s Remarks to Media per Meeting with Tornike Rijvadze (July 14) Q-n about the meeting Ambassador Kelly Degnan: I had a very interesting meeting with Chairperson today. This is my first visit to Adjara, my first visit to Batumi, a beautiful city, obviously very dynamic and exciting. I was very pleased to …
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Maduro steps up corruption, human rights violations (July 13) The illegitimate Maduro regime continues to undermine both human rights and democracy in Venezuela. Enforced disappearances of Venezuelan civilians by the regime are on the rise, according to a report by the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights group and Forno Penal , a Venezuelan human rights organization. The regime has kidnapped civilians it suspects of being political dissidents, …
Read More» U.S. Embassy Tbilisi statement on Parliament’s adoption of legislation to protect victims of child abuse, sexual exploitation, and trafficking (July 13) The U.S. Embassy commends Parliament and its Human Rights & Civil Integration Committee, under the leadership of Sopo Kiladze, for adopting important legislation aimed at protecting victims of child abuse, sexual exploitation, and trafficking. …
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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 …
Read More» U.S. Embassy Statement on Shooting/Detention along South Ossetia Administrative Boundary Line (July 12) U.S. Embassy Tbilisi is alarmed and deeply troubled by reports that Russian-led security forces shot, wounded, and detained a Georgian citizen on July 11 near the village of Kvemo Chala, along the administrative boundary line of Russian-occupied South Ossetia. We condemn …
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How to Develop Business Resiliency During the COVID-19 Pandemic (July 10) In a June virtual conference on “ Resiliency of Business Owners, ” panelists from both the United States and Africa discussed the importance of business resiliency, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and answered questions from viewers, many of whom are small-business entrepreneurs. William Warshauer, president and chief …
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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 …
Read More» 25 years later: Remembering the Srebrenica genocide (July 9) The people of the United States are honoring the memory of those who lost their lives 25 years ago in the Srebrenica genocide. In July 1995, more than 8,000 innocent victims were killed at the town of Srebrenica in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This painful event must …
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FBI director: China’s economic espionage threatens free societies (July 9) America’s top law enforcement official is warning of the risks to free societies posed by the Chinese Communist Party’s espionage. This theft poses the greatest long-term threat to U.S. economic and national security, he says. In remarks to a Washington think tank July 7, …
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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 …
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Chinese media: Press or propagandists? (July 7) Chinese state-run news organizations would like the world to think that they are independent and trustworthy. They are not. Many of these outlets work to spread Chinese Communist Party (CCP) propaganda around the world, and their employees effectively work for the Chinese Communist Party. That was the conclusion of Secretary of State …
Read More» International Students are Welcome in the U.S. (July 7) The United States has long been the destination of choice for international students, and we are pleased that many international students who had planned to study this fall in the United States may still have the opportunity to do so. The Department of Homeland Security …
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Report: CCP conducts mass sterilization of minority women (July 6) The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is conducting a campaign of mass sterilization of women as part of its repression of Uyghur and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang, a new report says. Using Chinese government documents and interviews with survivors, the Jamestown Foundation, a Washington …
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» Statement on the Passage of OSCE/ODIHR-Based Election Reforms (July 2) We congratulate Parliament on the passage of the electoral reform package based on OSCE/ODIHR recommendations. For over a year, political parties, civil society, and government agencies have worked constructively on drafting legislation designed to further strengthen Georgia’s electoral process. The U.S. Embassy was pleased to …
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 …
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Ambassador Kelly Degnan and USAID Missions Director Peter Wiebler meet Minister of Education of Georgia (July 1) Ambassador Degnan: “I had an excellent meeting with the Minister. We are here to formally launch USAID’s $7 million program, called Basic Education, that complements the excellent work the Minister has been doing under the “new school model” …
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 …
Read More» Secretary Michael R. Pompeo at the UN Security Council on the Iran Arms Embargo (June 30) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you, Nicolas. Thanks for the couple words in English there. I appreciate that. Good morning, everyone. Good to see you, Secretary General. Rosemary, thank you for your comments this morning. I would like to say you …
Read More» Secretary Michael R. Pompeo’s Call with Taliban Deputy Mullah Baradar (June 30) The following is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met via video conference yesterday with Taliban Deputy and chief negotiator Mullah Baradar to discuss implementation of the U.S.-Taliban Agreement. The Secretary made clear the expectation for the …
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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 …
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NASA engineers develop a ventilator for COVID-19 patients (June 30) A meeting over coffee at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has led to a ventilator prototype for COVID-19 patients, according to NASA . Mechanical systems engineer David Van Buren and JPL chief engineer Rob Manning started discussing the COVID-19 pandemic and how they could help while in …
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America’s free press offers diverse views on protests (June 29) The right to a free press is one of America’s most cherished liberties, fostering a wide-ranging discussion among citizens. When demonstrators in U.S. cities protested the May 25 death of George Floyd and other instances of police officers’ use of excessive force, America’s editors …
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Honoring heroes in the fight against human trafficking (June 29) While governments are reporting the highest number of convictions for human trafficking and the lowest number of forced labor victims identified during 2019, certain governments are themselves acting as traffickers, a State Department report says. The 2020 Trafficking in Persons Report , released June 25, assesses 188 countries and territories, …
Read More» Joint statement by the facilitators to the political dialogue on the passage of amendments to the electoral system (June 29) We warmly congratulate the Parliament of Georgia on today’s adoption of Constitutional amendments designed to increase parliamentary pluralism and allow for a more representative legislature. We recognize that these amendments reflect difficult compromises by …
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» On China’s Threats to Impose Visa Restrictions on U.S. Officials (June 29) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE The Chinese Communist Party’s crackdown on Hong Kong prompted the United States to retool its relationship with the territory. The Chinese Communist Party’s threats to retaliate by restricting visas for U.S. citizens exposes once again how Beijing refuses to take responsibility for its …
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 …
Read More» This Week in Iran Policy (June 26) “The United States has been clear about our expectations. We’ve been clear about our goals. We ask the Islamic Republic of Iran to behave like a normal nation. We’re happy to engage in conversations with them when the time is right, but the conditions that suggest somehow …
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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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Understanding America’s Electoral College [infographic] (June 25) When U.S. citizens cast their presidential election ballots, they’ll be voting for someone like Hagner Mister or Rex Teter. You probably have not heard of Mister or Teter. In fact, most voters who chose them in 2016 did not know who they were. During the last presidential …
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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» U.S. funding of global health strengthens COVID-19 fight (June 25) The United States has donated $1.16 billion more to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, to prevent the spread of infectious diseases worldwide. President Trump provided a statement of support for Gavi at the public Gavi pledge conference , hosted by the United Kingdom, on June 4. Bonnie Glick, deputy administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development …
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 …
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Human trafficking is a global (June 24) There are currently 25 million people around the world who are the victims of human traffickers. Human trafficking is a global epidemic. Learn more about its different forms and how to be aware of it in your community.
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How long can the new coronavirus last on surfaces? This tool will tell you (June 24) A new online tool can estimate how long the virus that causes COVID-19 will survive on surfaces. The tool uses temperature and relative humidity to calculate the natural decay of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The U.S. Department …
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DTRA donates equipment to State Security Service of Georgia (June 24) U.S. Government continues to support the State Security Service of Georgia responsible for keeping the country safe from Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). This week our Defense Threat Reduction Agency donated highly technical equipment to help Georgia with WMD detection and identification, as well …
Read More» Rewards for Justice – Increased Reward Offer for Information on ISIS Leader Amir Muhammad Sa’id Abdal-Rahman al-Mawla (June 24) The U.S. Department of State’s Rewards for Justice Program is increasing its reward – now up to $10 million — for information leading to the identification or location of ISIS’s new leader Amir Muhammad Sa’id …
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 …
Read More» UN Ambassador Kelly Craft and Special Representative for Iran Brian Hook Brief UN Security Council on Efforts to Extend Iran Arms Embargo (June 24) U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Kelly Craft, and U.S. Special Representative for Iran and Senior Advisor to the Secretary, Brian Hook, virtually briefed the UN Security Council on a proposed …
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The Charter of the United Nations turns 75 (June 23) When the Charter of the United Nations was signed on June 26, 1945, it set the stage for a post-World War II era dedicated to the resolution of international disputes by peaceful means. Fifty of the U.N.’s original 51 member countries signed the charter at the San Francisco Conference (Poland …
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USS Porter visits Batumi (June 23) United States Ship (USS) Porter (DDG 78) arrived in Batumi for a scheduled port visit on June 23, as part of the United States’ continued Black Sea presence and support for our regional partners. The visit serves to highlight the continued cooperation between the U.S. and Georgia by promoting regional peace …
Read More» Attacks in Syria (June 23) We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of innocent civilians killed and those wounded in Syria today in the terrorist attack in Tel Halaf and the airstrike in Kobane. There must be sustained focus by all on the critical need for a lasting political resolution to the conflict …
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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» U.S. Embassy Statement Regarding Electoral Reform (June 21) U.S. Embassy Tbilisi congratulates the Members of Parliament who today approved the first reading of Constitutional amendments related to Georgia’s electoral system. It is an important first step towards greater parliamentary pluralism. We hope the amendments will be adopted with broad support, and encourage all sides to …
Read More» U.S. Embassy statement on the anniversary of June 20 events (June 20) June 20 marks one year since thousands marched on Rustaveli Avenue to protest Russia’s continued occupation of Georgian territory. As we mark this day, on which hundreds were injured, we stand with the Georgian people and their calls to end Russian aggression and …
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» Joint statement by the facilitators to the political dialogue (June 19) The 8 March agreement was a historic achievement, agreed by a broad majority of political parties and Members of Parliament. As Parliament prepares to vote on Constitutional amendments that would establish a more proportional electoral system in Georgia, we again urge all sides …
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» Europe and the China Challenge (June 19) MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STAT VIRTUAL COPENHAGEN DEMOCRACY SUMMIT COPENHAGEN DEMOCRACY SUMMIT MR RASMUSSEN: It’s a great pleasure for me to welcome our next speaker, the American Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo. Good morning, Mr. Secretary. I think it’s morning in your time zone. I know you’ve been traveling from Hawaii where you …
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» This Week in Iran Policy (June 19) “Iran has a choice: It can answer the IAEA’s questions and comply with the legitimate requests for access, let inspectors travel freely, and be transparent about its activity, or Iran can take its current path of stonewalling and deception. This, however, will only increase Iran’s diplomatic isolation. …
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America’s first black Marines: The Montford Pointers (June 19) The year was 1943 and Joseph Carpenter had just received orders to report to Camp Montford Point in Jacksonville, North Carolina, from his home in Washington. “I was proud to be a Marine because they had so much history,” said Carpenter, now 96. But in …
Read More» USDA strengthens Georgia’s Food Safety System during COVID-19 pandemic (June 19) The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Caucasus Agricultural Development Initiative, funded by the U.S Department of State, is assisting Georgia’s efforts to improve its food safety systems using distance coaching modules led by international food safety laboratory specialist Dr. Janie Dubois. Incorporating a risk-based food …
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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U.S. museum helps Americans discuss race (June 18) When were you first made aware of race? And as a child, how did you make sense of human differences? These are among the questions you’ll encounter in Talking About Race , a newly launched online portal from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture . The website provides tools to help Americans lead constructive …
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