U.S. Department of State Weekly Digest Bulletin (part 2)

 

Japan, Philippines, and the U.S. Meet in First Summit In tandem with the official visit, Japan, the Philippines, and the U.S. convened the first summit between the three nations and pledged to support economic growth and security in the Indo-Pacific region.  All three nations share mutual interests in economic security, development, humanitarian assistance, maritime security, and defense. The trio announced plans to support the Luzon Economic Corridor in the Philippines – an initiative devoted to development of rail, ports, clean energy, and semiconductor supply chains.  “This partnership will protect American families, keep our economy competitive, and ensure the Indo-Pacific remains open, prosperous, and secure,” President Biden said on Twitter/X. U.S. Condemns Iran’s Attack on Israel “The United States condemns Iran’s attack on Israel in the strongest terms. While we do not seek escalation, we will continue to support Israel’s defense, and as President Biden made clear, we will defend U.S. personnel,” the Secretary said in a press statement.   Secretary Blinken will consult with allies and partners in the region and around the world in the days ahead. Secretary Blinken Joins Department's Minority Serving Institutions Conference The Secretary spoke at the second-annual Minority Serving Institutions Conference, an event that engages and recruits undergraduate and graduate students attending higher education institutions that serve minority students. “Now, one of the realities that we have to confront is that we are operating in an incredibly diverse world,” the Secretary told attendees. “The greatest strength that we bring to that is our own diversity. That is actually our comparative advantage. And so we want to make sure that we have a government and we have a Department that fully reflects that diversity.” Attendees learned about U.S. foreign policy priorities, efforts to promote diversity, and career opportunities at the Department. Soccer Stars Serve as Sports Envoys Carli Lloyd and Brandi Chastain will headline the 2024 spring roster of U.S. Soccer Sports Envoys. The athletes will travel overseas to meet young players, while hosting soccer clinics and leadership programs.   Lloyd won two Olympic gold medals, played on two U.S. World Cup championship teams and is a two-time FIFA Player of the Year. She will join Cobi Jones, a former member of the U.S. Nationals Men’s team, to meet with young athletes in Greece. Chastain, who scored a memorable penalty kick to win the 1999 World Cup, also played on two World Cup championship teams and won two Olympic golds.  Joanna Lohman and Kacey White, two U.S. Women’s National Team alumnae, were also selected as sports envoys. The envoys also visited the Azores and Cambodia.  U.S. Embassy Jakarta Offers Youth Environmental Education Program The U.S. Embassy in Indonesia and Wild Projects, a U.S. nonprofit organization, are working with students in Indonesia on a project that combines environmental education with local culture. High school students in East Kalimantan and West Java will learn critical thinking and leadership skills. The workshops will help students incorporate cultural perspectives into the response to climate and environmental challenges via contemporary dance, music, and local sport. “The relationship between America and Indonesia is strengthened by our shared identity as culturally diverse democracies,” said Jason Rebholz, U.S. Embassy Jakarta Counselor for Public Diplomacy. This Week April 15-17: Our Ocean Youth Leadership Summit and Our Ocean Conference April 17-19: Secretary Blinken’s Travel to the G7 Foreign Ministers Meeting Looking Ahead April 20-28: National Parks Week April 22-24: U.S-Philippines Space Dialogue April 22: Earth Day; Passover Useful links Travel advisories and updates on international travel for U.S. Citizens from the Department of State Did you know that you can invite a representative from the Department of State to speak at your school, business, agency or organization? Learn about what we do through the firsthand experience of one of our representatives.  Read More at State.gov Manage Subscriptions  |  Unsubscribe All  |  Help Privacy Policy

U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee Fact Sheet on U.S. Foreign Assistance to Iraq

04/15/2024

U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee Fact Sheet on U.S. Foreign Assistance to Iraq 04/15/2024 04:56 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee Fact Sheet on U.S. Foreign Assistance to Iraq hide U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee Fact Sheet on U.S. Foreign Assistance to Iraq Fact Sheet April 15, 2024 The U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee meeting in Washington, co-chaired by U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning Mohammed Tamim on April 15, reiterated the strong partnership between the United States and Iraq.  The United States remains Iraq’s most significant partner in economic development and humanitarian assistance.  Since 2014, the United States has invested nearly $3.5 billion in humanitarian and development assistance to help Iraqis recover from the destruction of ISIS and meet their long-term development goals.  U.S. assistance supports Iraq’s stability, sovereignty, and security.  It also supports economic opportunities for the Iraqi people, enhances Iraq’s democracy, and helps the government improve services for all Iraqis, including those from vulnerable and marginalized communities.  In 2023 alone, the United States provided $150 million in economic development assistance and $114.2 million in humanitarian assistance for Iraq.  In addition, the United States invests Public Diplomacy funds in support of educational partnerships, workforce development, entrepreneurship, English-language training, and cultural heritage preservation; this amount totals about $93 million since 2014. Economic Reform and Private Sector Growth: The United States supports Iraq’s efforts to diversify its economy and promote inclusive economic growth.  USG activities support: Business incubators, start-ups, entrepreneurs, and micro, small, and medium enterprises;      Increased access to finance;      Regulatory reform and commercial law development; and, Fiscal transparency. Climate Change, Energy, and Water:  Iraq is one of the most vulnerable countries in the world to climate change.  To increase Iraq’s ability to adapt to climate change, modernize its energy sector, and develop effective water management policies, USG activities include: Supporting and promoting the capture of flared gas; Improving regulations and creating systems to support climate adaptation, data collection, and water management; Supporting local governments and rural communities to adopt modern agriculture practices and technologies to combat the impact of water scarcity; Increasing the efficiency of natural gas power plants to achieve greater power production with the same, if not less, gas; Improving public services for potable water, solid waste management and wastewater treatment; and, Improving infrastructure inspection and dam safety policies and practices. Cultural Heritage Programs: The United States maintains strong relationships with key historical preservation organizations in Iraq to allow museums and conservators to highlight Iraq’s rich history and cultural diversity. U.S.-funded activities include: Supporting Iraqi experts to learn the latest conservation techniques; Repairing and restoring important cultural heritage sites; Digitizing and documenting artifacts and historic documents; and, Return of historical artifacts from the United States to Iraq.  Human Rights and Democracy Programs: The United States supports civil society groups in Iraq to bolster effective governance, political participation, and civic activism; protect and advance fundamental freedoms; and promote atrocity prevention, accountability, and social cohesion.  Activities include: Supporting housing, land, and property rights; Provision of technical assistance to Iraqi authorities on forensic identification and missing persons; Provision of legal assistance and psychosocial support to vulnerable populations; Promoting social cohesion and nonviolent dispute resolution within communities; Providing technical assistance to elected Members of Parliament on legislative drafting and constituent outreach; and, Advancing justice and accountability efforts for ISIS atrocities. Higher Education Programs: The United States supports private institutions of higher education, U.S.-Iraqi higher education partnerships, and workforce development programs.  U.S.-funded activities include: Supporting efforts by Iraqi and Iraqi-Kurdish private higher education institutions to achieve U.S. accreditation; Promoting women’s education, English-language skills, and career development; Facilitating partnerships between U.S. and Iraqi higher education institutions in English Language instruction, computer literacy and presentation skills to better prepare Iraqi youth for success in the 21st century economy; Supporting workforce training programs for Iraqi youth to build skills needed for success in a changing global workplace; and, Youth-focused programing through a network of American Spaces, trainings on design thinking and media literacy, and exchanges to the United States for more than 300 young Iraqis in 2024.  Humanitarian and Stabilization Assistance: The United States is the largest provider of humanitarian assistance to Iraq. Humanitarian needs persist in Iraq, and assistance remains necessary for internally displaced persons, vulnerable Iraqis, returnees, refugees, and persons at risk of statelessness.  The United States also works alongside our Iraqi partners and the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS to support stabilization in areas liberated from ISIS.   The United States is the largest donor supporting the Jedda’a 1 rehabilitation camp.  U.S.-funded activities include: Providing drinking water, shelter, and food assistance; Ensuring access to essential healthcare as well as mental health and psychosocial support; Helping vulnerable Iraqis get back to work and school; Expanding access to civil documentation, which helps provide long-term solutions to displaced populations; Helping displaced persons, including returnees from northeast Syria, return to areas of origin, integrate locally, or settle in new locations voluntarily, safely, and with dignity; Supporting hosting communities and promoting social cohesion; and Preserving evidence of ISIS atrocities and promoting local, national, and international accountability efforts. Tags Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Climate Change Cultural Objects Democracy Economic Affairs Education Programs Energy Foreign Assistance Human Rights Humanitarian Aid Iraq Office of the Spokesperson Office of Foreign Assistance Stabilization Water

Joint Statement on the U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee

04/15/2024

Joint Statement on the U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee 04/15/2024 04:48 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Joint Statement on the U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee hide Joint Statement on the U.S.-Iraq Higher Coordinating Committee Media Note April 15, 2024 The following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the Republic of Iraq. Begin text: The delegation of the Republic of Iraq, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning Mohammed Tamim, and the delegation of the United States Government, led by Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, co-chaired a meeting of the Higher Coordinating Committee today, April 15, in accordance with the 2008 U.S.-Iraq Strategic Framework Agreement.  The two sides reaffirmed the importance of the bilateral partnership and Iraq’s critical role in regional security and prosperity.  The delegations expressed the desire to expand the depth and breadth of the relationship between our two countries, including in the areas of energy independence, financial reform, services for the Iraqi people, strengthening democracy and the rule of law, and enhancing educational and cultural relations.  Representatives from Iraq’s Kurdistan Regional Government also participated. The U.S. and Iraqi delegations shared the view that Iraq has the potential to harness immense natural gas resources, invest in new energy infrastructure and renewables, and achieve energy self-sufficiency by 2030.  The United States commended Iraq for its progress on gas capture and work on commercializing associated gases.  Significant gas potential in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR) is a key component of Iraq’s energy security, as is increased private sector investment.  To allow Iraq to benefit from the U.S. private sector’s leading technology and expertise, the United States and Iraq announced the signing of new memoranda of understanding (MOUs) to capture and process flared gas and turn it into usable electricity for the Iraqi people.  Also, the two sides stressed the importance of resuming oil exports via the Iraq-Turkiye Pipeline (ITP). The United States commended Iraq for its considerable work on increasing regional connectivity, particularly in energy interconnections with Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council.  After years of work to build its interconnection with Jordan, Iraq is receiving 40 megawatts of electricity for the Iraqi people; future phases would increase capacity to 900 megawatts.  Iraq affirmed that enhanced ties based on shared mutual interests with neighbors are essential to domestic prosperity.  Iraq and the United States discussed Iraq’s interest in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, including emerging nuclear technologies. The two sides discussed the significant progress Iraq has made in modernizing its financial and banking sector, which has expanded correspondent relationships with banks in the United States and Europe.  Iraq and the United States committed to ongoing collaborative financial reform efforts that will allow Iraq to encourage foreign investment and continue expanding international banking relationships.  These reforms will fight corruption and prevent illicit use of Iraq’s financial sector, allowing local banks to serve as engines of inclusive economic growth.  The two sides resolved to strengthen cooperation through an enhanced engagement plan between the U.S. Treasury and key Government of Iraq stakeholders.  Iraq and the United States also noted the importance of improving Iraq’s investment climate and combatting corruption, key pillars of Prime Minister Sudani’s reform efforts.  To bolster the development of private business in Iraq, the United States International Development Finance Corporation will provide a $50 million loan facilitated by USAID to the National Bank of Iraq to expand its lending to micro, small, and medium enterprises, with a focus on previously unbanked and women-led businesses. Iraq renewed its commitment to its ongoing efforts on accession to the World Trade Organization and protecting intellectual property rights.  The United States also committed to support a series of International Visitor Leadership Program projects for Iraqis to develop expertise in these areas.  Both parties recognized the importance of strategic and infrastructural projects in Iraq that will support regional integration and boost international trade. The United States expressed concern about the impacts of climate change being felt by the Iraqi people and pledged continued support to resolve Iraq’s water crisis and improve public health.  The United States commended the Supreme Water Committee’s work to improve management of Iraq’s water resources.  Both countries intend to work closely together as Iraq addresses climate change and water scarcity and ends gas flaring to reduce methane emissions.  The United States applauded Iraq’s pending release of its National Action Plan and encouraged Iraq to prepare a more ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement ahead of the 29th UN Climate Change Conference.  USAID committed to working with Iraq at the local government level to improve water and waste management services.  The United States also committed to an International Visitor Leadership Program and an Ambassador’s Water Expert Program to share technical expertise on water management and other needs.  The Iraqi delegation also expressed interest in cooperating with American companies to exchange expertise in health insurance programs, hospital management, and cancer research. The Government of the United States welcomed the Government of Iraq’s commitment to respecting freedom of expression in accordance with Iraqi law as guaranteed by Iraq’s constitution.  The two delegations discussed how the United States could best support the Iraqi government to advance justice for survivors and victims of the 2014 genocide committed by ISIS in accordance with the rule of law.  The two sides also discussed the importance of the stability of Sinjar.  The United States reaffirmed its continued intention to support Iraq in advancing its Trafficking in Persons strategy.  The United States applauded recent positive developments in support of minority communities.  The two sides also took note of the impressive progress Iraq has made in repatriating more than 8,000 of its citizens from al-Hol displaced persons camp in northeastern Syria.  The United States thanked Iraq for its commitment to accelerate the pace of repatriations.  In the higher education and cultural discussion, the two governments discussed U.S. support for the Prime Minister’s reinvigorated scholarship program intended to bolster the number of Iraqi students studying overseas.  The Government of Iraq intends to send 3,000 students to study in the United States out of 5,000 it plans to send to study abroad.  The two nations also welcomed initiatives to expand English language instruction and student advising for Iraqi students interested in, or bound for, study in the United States.  The two delegations also reviewed progress on their mutual efforts to preserve Iraq’s rich cultural heritage and religious diversity and reaffirmed their intent to continue facilitating the return of Iraqi cultural property to its rightful place in Iraq.  Accordingly, during the HCC, the Department of State facilitated the transfer of one ancient Sumerian artifact repatriated to Iraq by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and committed to future repatriations of Iraqi artifacts. The two countries affirmed the strides Iraq has made in bolstering its security, stability, and sovereignty and noted their mutual determination to deepen the strong ties between their two peoples.  The United States welcomed the opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen its partnership with Iraq. End text. Tags Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Iraq Office of the Spokesperson

U.S. Delegation to the 2024 UN/ECOSOC Youth Forum

04/15/2024

U.S. Delegation to the 2024 UN/ECOSOC Youth Forum 04/15/2024 05:00 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…U.S. Delegation to the 2024 UN/ECOSOC Youth Forum hide U.S. Delegation to the 2024 UN/ECOSOC Youth Forum Media Note April 15, 2024 The annual Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum will be held at UN Headquarters in New York from April 16-18.  The U.S. delegation to the Forum will be led by Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Representative of the United States to the UN, with Ambassador Lisa Carty, U.S. Representative to ECOSOC, and will also feature the participation of U.S. Special Envoy for Global Youth Issues Abby Finkenauer and USAID Youth Coordinator Sarah Sladen.  This year’s Forum will focus on youth perspectives to reinforce the 2030 Agenda for the Sustainable Development Goals.  Thematic sessions will include youth in climate change, global food security, and artificial intelligence. For more information, please visit The Youth Forum website.  For updates from the U.S. delegation, follow on X at:  @State_IO and @USUN.  Tags New York Office of Global Youth Issues Office of the Spokesperson Sustainable Development United Nations Youth Programs

Joint Statement on the United States-Turkmenistan Annual Bilateral Consultations

04/16/2024

Joint Statement on the United States-Turkmenistan Annual Bilateral Consultations 04/16/2024 09:25 AM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Turkmenistan on the occasion of the 2024 United States-Turkmenistan Annual Bilateral Consultations (ABCs) in Ashgabat. Begin Text On April 14, 2024, the United States and Turkmenistan marked a fruitful tenth round of the United States-Turkmenistan Annual Bilateral Consultations in Ashgabat. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov and United States Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs John Mark Pommersheim led the delegations. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Meredov and Deputy Assistant Secretary Pommersheim underscored their commitment to advancing U.S.-Turkmenistan relations,including through security cooperation, educational and cultural partnerships and exchanges, human rights, increased trade and investment opportunities, and joint efforts to fight climate change. Following the successes of the inaugural C5+1 Presidential Summit in September 2023, the United States and Turkmenistan affirmed their commitment to the C5+1 regional diplomatic platform. Security Cooperation The United States and Turkmenistan discussed combattingregional and global security threats, including transnational terrorism. Deputy Assistant Secretary Pommersheim closed the dialogue by noting appreciation of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy principle of positive neutrality, and underscoring unwavering support for its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Human Rights The United States lauded Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the International Labor Organization to address forced labor and its granting access to the ILO to independently observe the cotton harvest. Turkmenistan emphasized plans to adopt a roadmap of activities with the ILO for 2024-2025 and considerrecommendations by the ILO. The United States and Turkmenistan agreed to continue to discuss other human rights issues through regular meetings of the Human Dimension Working Group in Ashgabat. Educational and Cultural Cooperation The United States and Turkmenistan celebrated the advancement of their educational and cultural cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to the future of these programs which benefitTurkmen and Americans alike. Participants discussed efforts tobolster and advance people-to-people ties and cultural programs. In particular, both sides acknowledged the importance of the Memorandum of Understanding on Education signed between both governments on April 24, 2023, in strengthening bilateral cooperation and expanding educational exchange and English language programs. Environment, Economy, and Investment The United States and Turkmenistan underscored their continued commitment to fight climate change, especially byreducing methane emissions in support of the Global Methan Pledge. Furthermore, Turkmenistan announced it is currently drafting new legislation intended to reduce methane emissions. The United States expressed appreciation for the strong cooperation received from the Government of Turkmenistan for a joint technical assessment of methane reduction opportunities and looks forward to continuing these efforts. The United States Export-Import Bank (EXIM) and the State Bank for Foreign Economic Affairs of Turkmenistan agreed to continue to work together to identify projects of joint economic interest, includingreducing methane and other greenhouse gases. In support of the New York Declaration, adopted at the inaugural C5+1 Summit, the United States and Turkmenistan committed to improving the business climate and expanding ties between companies, including through the B5+1 platform, to increase bilateral trade, investment opportunities, and regional connectivity. Turkmenistan and the United States expressed their intention to hold the next round of Annual Bilateral Consultations in Washington in 2025. Both the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Meredov and Deputy Assistant Secretary Pommersheim noted that they look forward to working jointly on overcoming challenges and celebrating bilateral successes in the coming year. End Text

Joint Statement on the United States-Turkmenistan Annual Bilateral Consultations

04/16/2024

Joint Statement on the United States-Turkmenistan Annual Bilateral Consultations 04/16/2024 09:25 AM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Turkmenistan on the occasion of the 2024 United States-Turkmenistan Annual Bilateral Consultations (ABCs) in Ashgabat. Begin Text On April 14, 2024, the United States and Turkmenistan marked a fruitful tenth round of the United States-Turkmenistan Annual Bilateral Consultations in Ashgabat. Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Rashid Meredov and United States Department of State Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs John Mark Pommersheim led the delegations. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Meredov and Deputy Assistant Secretary Pommersheim underscored their commitment to advancing U.S.-Turkmenistan relations,including through security cooperation, educational and cultural partnerships and exchanges, human rights, increased trade and investment opportunities, and joint efforts to fight climate change. Following the successes of the inaugural C5+1 Presidential Summit in September 2023, the United States and Turkmenistan affirmed their commitment to the C5+1 regional diplomatic platform. Security Cooperation The United States and Turkmenistan discussed combattingregional and global security threats, including transnational terrorism. Deputy Assistant Secretary Pommersheim closed the dialogue by noting appreciation of Turkmenistan’s foreign policy principle of positive neutrality, and underscoring unwavering support for its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Human Rights The United States lauded Turkmenistan’s cooperation with the International Labor Organization to address forced labor and its granting access to the ILO to independently observe the cotton harvest. Turkmenistan emphasized plans to adopt a roadmap of activities with the ILO for 2024-2025 and considerrecommendations by the ILO. The United States and Turkmenistan agreed to continue to discuss other human rights issues through regular meetings of the Human Dimension Working Group in Ashgabat. Educational and Cultural Cooperation The United States and Turkmenistan celebrated the advancement of their educational and cultural cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to the future of these programs which benefitTurkmen and Americans alike. Participants discussed efforts tobolster and advance people-to-people ties and cultural programs. In particular, both sides acknowledged the importance of the Memorandum of Understanding on Education signed between both governments on April 24, 2023, in strengthening bilateral cooperation and expanding educational exchange and English language programs. Environment, Economy, and Investment The United States and Turkmenistan underscored their continued commitment to fight climate change, especially byreducing methane emissions in support of the Global Methan Pledge. Furthermore, Turkmenistan announced it is currently drafting new legislation intended to reduce methane emissions. The United States expressed appreciation for the strong cooperation received from the Government of Turkmenistan for a joint technical assessment of methane reduction opportunities and looks forward to continuing these efforts. The United States Export-Import Bank (EXIM) and the State Bank for Foreign Economic Affairs of Turkmenistan agreed to continue to work together to identify projects of joint economic interest, includingreducing methane and other greenhouse gases. In support of the New York Declaration, adopted at the inaugural C5+1 Summit, the United States and Turkmenistan committed to improving the business climate and expanding ties between companies, including through the B5+1 platform, to increase bilateral trade, investment opportunities, and regional connectivity. Turkmenistan and the United States expressed their intention to hold the next round of Annual Bilateral Consultations in Washington in 2025. Both the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Meredov and Deputy Assistant Secretary Pommersheim noted that they look forward to working jointly on overcoming challenges and celebrating bilateral successes in the coming year. End Text

Department of State Launches State-to-States Initiative

04/16/2024

Department of State Launches State-to-States Initiative 04/16/2024 12:57 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson Special Representative for City and State Diplomacy Ambassador Nina Hachigian announced the State-to-States Initiative, a new effort by the Department of State to connect with states and local communities in the U.S. The State-to-States Initiative pulls together existing and new engagement conducted by the Special Representative for City and State Diplomacy and her team. They meet with local leaders, diaspora communities, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions in their communities to know them better, learn their perspectives on local priorities, and hear how global issues affect them. The Special Representative for City and State Diplomacy Ambassador Nina Hachigian, serves as the State Department’s “chief connector” with towns, cities, counties and states.  Established in 2022, the Special Representative and her team aim to bring the benefits of U.S. foreign policy — jobs, investments, connections, international experiences — to local communities while supporting the integration of local ideas and action into U.S. international engagement strategy. To keep up with the State-to-States Initiative, visit the Special Representative’s page here and follow along on X at @SubnationalDip.  For media inquiries and questions, please contact: Subnational@state.gov.

U.S.-Republic of Korea (ROK) Consultations on North Korean Human Rights

04/16/2024

U.S.-Republic of Korea (ROK) Consultations on North Korean Human Rights 04/16/2024 03:00 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson On April 15, the United States hosted U.S.-ROK Consultations on North Korean Human Rights to identify strategies to promote the human rights and fundamental freedoms and dignity of North Koreans.  The meeting featured an expanded interagency format, demonstrating the depth of U.S.-ROK cooperation on North Korean human rights issues.  Led by Ambassador Julie Turner, U.S. Special Envoy on North Korean Human Rights Issues, and Chun Younghee, ROK Ministry of Foreign Affairs Director General for the Korean Peninsula Peace Regime Bureau, the two sides discussed access to information; forced labor; abductees, detainees and unrepatriated POWs; accountability; and the inextricable link between human rights violations and abuses in North Korea and international peace and security. The United States remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing human rights and holding the DPRK government to account for its human rights violations and abuses.  Through this bilateral consultation, the United States and ROK reaffirmed their determination to work together to address the DPRK government’s human rights violations and abuses and to pursue a more just future for all North Koreans.

Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Lee Satterfield Meets with People’s Republic of China Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Li Qun

04/16/2024

Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Lee Satterfield Meets with People’s Republic of China Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Li Qun 04/16/2024 03:20 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson Today in Washington, D.C., Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Lee Satterfield met with the People’s Republic of China Vice Minister of Culture and Tourism Li Qun to discuss the recently extended U.S.-PRC cultural property agreement and associated goals of protecting heritage, promoting exchanges of experts in the fields of archaeology and cultural heritage, and increasing American and Chinese public access to cultural heritage by fostering museum-to-museum collaborations. Assistant Secretary Satterfield and Vice Minister Li discussed opportunities for further cooperation on cultural heritage protection and other areas of mutual interest, including people-to-people exchanges.  The Assistant Secretary underscored that the United States remains committed to expanding people-to-people ties with the People’s Republic of China, as President Biden and President Xi affirmed at their meeting in Woodside, California last fall and in their April 2 phone call. The United States and the People’s Republic of China first entered into a cultural property agreement on January 14, 2009.  The agreement counters trafficking of cultural property while encouraging the legal exchange of such property for cultural, educational, and scientific purposes.  The U.S.-PRC cultural property agreement was negotiated by the State Department under the U.S. law implementing the 1970 UNESCO Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property.  In accordance with U.S. law, the agreement and associated import restrictions were extended in 2014, 2019, and 2024.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken an

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting 04/16/2024 04:32 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting hide Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting Remarks April 16, 2024 SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to welcome Foreign Minister Borg here to the State Department, to Washington, and I want to say first how much we appreciate the leadership that Malta has shown leading the OSCE at a very, very challenging time, but doing it in a – I think a very effective way, and also, of course, on the UN Security Council, including in the presidency this month. So we have a lot to talk about, issues concerning both the OSCE and the UN, and also looking at ways to further strengthen and deepen cooperation between the United States and Malta. So Ian, it’s a pleasure to have you here today to continue our conversations. FOREIGN MINISTER BORG: Secretary of State Blinken, thank you for receiving me. It’s always a pleasure to have the opportunity discussing ongoing issues, the chair of OSCE, and also this very important week we have in the Security Council, but even more important, keep strengthening the excellent relationship and partnership we have between Malta and the United States. Thank you very much. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, everyone. Come on back. QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, any deliverables from the G7 meeting this week? SECRETARY BLINKEN: Stay tuned. Tags Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Malta Office of the Spokesperson Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe The Secretary of State

Special Envoy and Coordinator for the Global Engagement Center Rubin Travels to Argentina and Peru

04/16/2024

Special Envoy and Coordinator for the Global Engagement Center Rubin Travels to Argentina and Peru 04/16/2024 04:29 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The Special Envoy and Coordinator for the Global Engagement Center James P. Rubin will travel from April 17 to April 23 to Buenos Aires, Argentina and Lima, Peru. While in Argentina, Special Envoy Rubin will participate in a conference on foreign information manipulation in Latin America and the threat it poses to democratic societies. In both Argentina and Peru, Special Envoy Rubin will meet with host-nation government officials to discuss bilateral efforts to counter foreign state information manipulation.  He will also meet with civil society representatives and local media leaders to discuss their important role in countering foreign disinformation operations.

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting

04/16/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting 04/16/2024 04:32 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting hide Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting Remarks April 16, 2024 SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to welcome Foreign Minister Borg here to the State Department, to Washington, and I want to say first how much we appreciate the leadership that Malta has shown leading the OSCE at a very, very challenging time, but doing it in a – I think a very effective way, and also, of course, on the UN Security Council, including in the presidency this month. So we have a lot to talk about, issues concerning both the OSCE and the UN, and also looking at ways to further strengthen and deepen cooperation between the United States and Malta. So Ian, it’s a pleasure to have you here today to continue our conversations. FOREIGN MINISTER BORG: Secretary of State Blinken, thank you for receiving me. It’s always a pleasure to have the opportunity discussing ongoing issues, the chair of OSCE, and also this very important week we have in the Security Council, but even more important, keep strengthening the excellent relationship and partnership we have between Malta and the United States. Thank you very much. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, everyone. Come on back. QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, any deliverables from the G7 meeting this week? SECRETARY BLINKEN: Stay tuned. Tags Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Malta Office of the Spokesperson Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe The Secretary of State

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani

04/16/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani 04/16/2024 04:26 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Blinken’s Call with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani hide Secretary Blinken’s Call with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani Readout April 16, 2024 The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Secretary Blinken and the Prime Minister discussed Iran’s unprecedented air attack on Israel. The Secretary and the Prime Minster underscored the importance of a coordinated diplomatic response and the need to avoid further escalation. They also reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-Qatar relationship and the importance of continuing to work closely together in the days ahead to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza that secures the release of all hostages. Tags Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Israel-Hamas Conflict Office of the Spokesperson Qatar The Secretary of State

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting

04/16/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting 04/16/2024 04:32 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting hide Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg Before Their Meeting Remarks April 16, 2024 SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to welcome Foreign Minister Borg here to the State Department, to Washington, and I want to say first how much we appreciate the leadership that Malta has shown leading the OSCE at a very, very challenging time, but doing it in a – I think a very effective way, and also, of course, on the UN Security Council, including in the presidency this month. So we have a lot to talk about, issues concerning both the OSCE and the UN, and also looking at ways to further strengthen and deepen cooperation between the United States and Malta. So Ian, it’s a pleasure to have you here today to continue our conversations. FOREIGN MINISTER BORG: Secretary of State Blinken, thank you for receiving me. It’s always a pleasure to have the opportunity discussing ongoing issues, the chair of OSCE, and also this very important week we have in the Security Council, but even more important, keep strengthening the excellent relationship and partnership we have between Malta and the United States. Thank you very much. SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, everyone. Come on back. QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, any deliverables from the G7 meeting this week? SECRETARY BLINKEN: Stay tuned. Tags Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Malta Office of the Spokesperson Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe The Secretary of State

United States Provides Nearly $154 Million for Humanitarian Assistance in Ethiopia

04/16/2024

United States Provides Nearly $154 Million for Humanitarian Assistance in Ethiopia 04/16/2024 04:40 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The United States, through the State Department’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM) and USAID, is providing nearly $154 million in additional assistance for the humanitarian response in Ethiopia to address urgent needs resulting from conflict, insecurity, and climate shocks. This includes more than $19 million from PRM for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and other humanitarian partners to support refugees and other displaced and vulnerable populations throughout Ethiopia. The additional funding brings the United States’ total humanitarian assistance in Ethiopia to nearly $243 million since the beginning of Fiscal Year 2024. PRM contributions to UNHCR and other partners will support the provision of essential services such as protection; shelter; water, sanitation and hygiene; and mental health support for refugees living in Ethiopia as well as internally displaced Ethiopians. Ethiopia now hosts nearly 1 million refugees, the third-largest refugee population in Africa. Since 2023, Ethiopia has welcomed more than 130,000 new refugees and asylum-seekers fleeing conflicts in Sudan and Somalia. The United States remains the largest humanitarian donor in Ethiopia and will continue to support refugees sheltering in the country. We urge other donors to join us in supporting UNHCR and other humanitarian organizations working to assist the most vulnerable people affected by conflict and other crises throughout the region.

The U.S.-Italy Relationship

04/16/2024

The U.S.-Italy Relationship 04/16/2024 06:22 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…The U.S.-Italy Relationship hide The U.S.-Italy Relationship Fact Sheet April 16, 2024 “Italy and the United States are strong allies and really close friends.” President Joe Biden March 1, 2024 The United States established diplomatic relations with Italy in 1861 following the unification of most of the peninsula into one state and re-established relations in 1944. Today the United States and Italy enjoy warm and close relations as Allies, partners, and friends. As steadfast and active transatlantic partners, the United States and Italy have sought to foster democratic ideals and international cooperation. The relationship is based upon our shared values and principles – democracy, freedom, respect for human rights – and reinforced by the desire to promote peace and security, increase prosperity, and enhance sustainability around the world. The connections between our people form the heart of our relationship. The United States and Italy: Allies, Partners, Friends Our shared priorities include support for Ukraine, sustainable development, food and energy security, migration, cooperation on artificial intelligence, and continued joint efforts in support of the Partnership on Global Infrastructure and Investment. Italy has a central role to play in ending Russia’s brutal aggression against Ukraine and finding a solution to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Our cooperation and coordination are vital. Unshakable Allies The United States and Italy were two of the original twelve signatories of the North Atlantic Treaty, the most successful and enduring alliance in history. Italy has led in that role since NATO’s founding, leading important operations such as NATO Mission Iraq and Kosovo Force. Italy also hosts Joint Force Command Naples, NATO’s Hub for the South, and the NATO Defense College in Rome. Italy hosts approximately 30,000 U.S. service members, Department of Defense civilians, and their family members across five major base clusters throughout Italy – the second largest permanent presence in Europe. Strategic Partners The United States and Italy work together bilaterally and through international organizations including the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, the World Trade Organization, the G20, and the G7. Italy holds the G7 rotating presidency in 2024. United States-Italy two-way trade in goods and services exceeded a record $126 billion in 2023. The United States is the largest non-EU market for Italian exports, and two-way foreign direct investment surpassed $72 billion in 2022 and supports more than 440,000 jobs in both countries. In addition to the U.S. Embassy in Rome, the United States maintains consulates in Milan, Florence, and Naples, as well as consular agencies in Palermo, Venice, and Genoa. Italy maintains an embassy in Washington, DC and consulates in Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. Exceptional Friends The connections between the people of the United States and the people of Italy form the heart of our relationship. Over 17 million Americans claim Italian heritage and the contributions of Italian-Americans make the United States stronger, more prosperous, and more vibrant. The United States and Italy share a strong commitment to educational, cultural, and professional exchanges. According to the 2021/22 Open Doors Report, Italy placed as the top destination for U.S. students studying overseas with more than 30,000 students. In the academic year 2022/23 more than 6,200 Italians studied in the United States, an increase of more than ten percent from the previous year. Approximately six million American tourists visited Italy in 2023. The flagship U.S.-Italy Fulbright Program celebrated its 75th anniversary in Italy in 2023, highlighting our steadfast commitment to educational exchange. This Fulbright program is one of the oldest and largest in Europe, and one of the most competitive. Distinguished alumni include eight Nobel Prize winners and two former Italian Prime Ministers. Since 1940, the International Visitor Leadership Program has built bridges and connected current and emerging Italian leaders with their American counterparts. Notable alumni of this program include four presidents of the Italian Republic, including current President Sergio Mattarella, and six former Prime Ministers of Italy. Tags Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Italy Office of the Spokesperson

The U.S.-Italy Relationship

04/16/2024

The U.S.-Italy Relationship 04/16/2024 06:22 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…The U.S.-Italy Relationship hide The U.S.-Italy Relationship Fact Sheet April 16, 2024 “Italy and the United States are strong allies and really close friends.” President Joe Biden March 1, 2024 The United States established diplomatic relations with Italy in 1861 following the unification of most of the peninsula into one state and re-established relations in 1944. Today the United States and Italy enjoy warm and close relations as Allies, partners, and friends. As steadfast and active transatlantic partners, the United States and Italy have sought to foster democratic ideals and international cooperation. The relationship is based upon our shared values and principles – democracy, freedom, respect for human rights – and reinforced by the desire to promote peace and security, increase prosperity, and enhance sustainability around the world. The connections between our people form the heart of our relationship. The United States and Italy: Allies, Partners, Friends Our shared priorities include support for Ukraine, sustainable development, food and energy security, migration, cooperation on artificial intelligence, and continued joint efforts in support of the Partnership on Global Infrastructure and Investment. Italy has a central role to play in ending Russia’s brutal aggression against Ukraine and finding a solution to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Our cooperation and coordination are vital. Unshakable Allies The United States and Italy were two of the original twelve signatories of the North Atlantic Treaty, the most successful and enduring alliance in history. Italy has led in that role since NATO’s founding, leading important operations such as NATO Mission Iraq and Kosovo Force. Italy also hosts Joint Force Command Naples, NATO’s Hub for the South, and the NATO Defense College in Rome. Italy hosts approximately 30,000 U.S. service members, Department of Defense civilians, and their family members across five major base clusters throughout Italy – the second largest permanent presence in Europe. Strategic Partners The United States and Italy work together bilaterally and through international organizations including the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, the World Trade Organization, the G20, and the G7. Italy holds the G7 rotating presidency in 2024. United States-Italy two-way trade in goods and services exceeded a record $126 billion in 2023. The United States is the largest non-EU market for Italian exports, and two-way foreign direct investment surpassed $72 billion in 2022 and supports more than 440,000 jobs in both countries. In addition to the U.S. Embassy in Rome, the United States maintains consulates in Milan, Florence, and Naples, as well as consular agencies in Palermo, Venice, and Genoa. Italy maintains an embassy in Washington, DC and consulates in Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco. Exceptional Friends The connections between the people of the United States and the people of Italy form the heart of our relationship. Over 17 million Americans claim Italian heritage and the contributions of Italian-Americans make the United States stronger, more prosperous, and more vibrant. The United States and Italy share a strong commitment to educational, cultural, and professional exchanges. According to the 2021/22 Open Doors Report, Italy placed as the top destination for U.S. students studying overseas with more than 30,000 students. In the academic year 2022/23 more than 6,200 Italians studied in the United States, an increase of more than ten percent from the previous year. Approximately six million American tourists visited Italy in 2023. The flagship U.S.-Italy Fulbright Program celebrated its 75th anniversary in Italy in 2023, highlighting our steadfast commitment to educational exchange. This Fulbright program is one of the oldest and largest in Europe, and one of the most competitive. Distinguished alumni include eight Nobel Prize winners and two former Italian Prime Ministers. Since 1940, the International Visitor Leadership Program has built bridges and connected current and emerging Italian leaders with their American counterparts. Notable alumni of this program include four presidents of the Italian Republic, including current President Sergio Mattarella, and six former Prime Ministers of Italy. Tags Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Italy Office of the Spokesperson

UN Secretary-General Guterres’ April 8 Negative Assessment of Preconditions for Elections in South Sudan

04/16/2024

UN Secretary-General Guterres’ April 8 Negative Assessment of Preconditions for Elections in South Sudan  04/16/2024 07:28 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…UN Secretary-General Guterres’ April 8 Negative Assessment of Preconditions for Elections in South Sudan  hide UN Secretary-General Guterres’ April 8 Negative Assessment of Preconditions for Elections in South Sudan  Press Statement April 16, 2024 UN Secretary-General Guterres’ April 8 letter, in which he enumerated over a dozen critical preconditions necessary to hold genuine and peaceful elections that the South Sudan transitional government has yet to meet, is a clear message to the Security Council.  Despite significant international support, including identification of key election issues by the United Nations, African Union, and Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the letter demonstrates that President Salva Kiir, First Vice President Riek Machar, and other South Sudanese political leaders have thus far collectively failed to meet the standards necessary for genuine and peaceful elections to take place in December. The United States remains concerned about ongoing reports of human rights violations, as well as inadequate investment in key democratic institutions.  Transitional government leaders should act with urgency to address these deficiencies and create the necessary preconditions for a genuine and peaceful electoral process, including by protecting civic space, standing up politically neutral security forces, strengthening electoral institutions, and holding dialogue among leaders to resolve outstanding election decisions.  UN electoral support should focus on establishing these preconditions.  The longer South Sudan’s leaders avoid taking these steps, the greater the risk of additional violence.   An estimated 75 percent of the country’s population will require humanitarian assistance this year alone as a result of ongoing violence. U.S. engagement with the people of South Sudan, which began decades before the country’s independence, remains focused on shared values of peace, democracy, human rights, and government’s duty to respond to the needs of its people.  Strong U.S. advocacy for the necessary preconditions for a genuine and peaceful electoral process is designed to avoid a return to civil war. Tags Bureau of African Affairs Elections Human Rights and Democracy Office of the Spokesperson South Sudan

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Maltese Foreign Minister Borg

04/16/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Maltese Foreign Minister Borg 04/16/2024 07:32 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Maltese Foreign Minister Borg hide Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Maltese Foreign Minister Borg Readout April 16, 2024 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:  Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg in Washington, DC. Secretary Blinken expressed appreciation for Malta’s leadership as a Member of the United Nations Security Council and as Chair-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, and in particular Malta’s continued efforts to support Ukraine.  Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Borg spoke about the challenges posed by the People’s Republic of China’s support for Russia’s defense-industrial base, which enables Russia to continue its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.  They discussed shared concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the urgent need to secure the release of hostages and protect civilians, and the importance of preventing the further spread of the conflict in the Middle East.  They explored opportunities to build on the already strong U.S.-Malta relationship.   Tags Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Malta Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Maltese Foreign Minister Borg

04/16/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Maltese Foreign Minister Borg 04/16/2024 07:32 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Maltese Foreign Minister Borg hide Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Maltese Foreign Minister Borg Readout April 16, 2024 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:  Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met today with Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg in Washington, DC. Secretary Blinken expressed appreciation for Malta’s leadership as a Member of the United Nations Security Council and as Chair-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, and in particular Malta’s continued efforts to support Ukraine.  Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Borg spoke about the challenges posed by the People’s Republic of China’s support for Russia’s defense-industrial base, which enables Russia to continue its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.  They discussed shared concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the urgent need to secure the release of hostages and protect civilians, and the importance of preventing the further spread of the conflict in the Middle East.  They explored opportunities to build on the already strong U.S.-Malta relationship.   Tags Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Malta Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State

U.S. Department of State Brings International Hip Hop Artists to the United States for People-to-People Exchange Program

04/16/2024

U.S. Department of State Brings International Hip Hop Artists to the United States for People-to-People Exchange Program  04/16/2024 08:30 PM EDT HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…U.S. Department of State Brings International Hip Hop Artists to the United States for People-to-People Exchange Program  hide U.S. Department of State Brings International Hip Hop Artists to the United States for People-to-People Exchange Program  Media Note April 16, 2024 As part of the U.S. Department of State’s Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, which elevates music to promote peace and create cross-cultural connections worldwide, the Department announced today that participants from 22 countries will explore how Hip Hop has promoted peace and positive social change, as well as encourage economic growth, with their American counterparts in Washington, DC; New York, NY; and Raleigh and Chapel Hill, NC  during an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) exchange from April 15-26, 2024. While in Washington, DC, the participants will learn about U.S. society and culture, methods to archive HipHop history, and the role of music and visual arts in empowering youth.  They, along with representatives of National Geographic, the D.C. Arts Commission, and local arts organizations, attended a special panel event and jam session hosted by Next Level at the National Museum for American Diplomacy highlighting Hip Hop diplomacy.  Damian Thomas, the Curator of Sports at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, moderated a panel featuring B-Boy Kareem, B-Girl Macca, Vikki Tobak, and Junious Brickhouse, where the influence of Hip Hop culture and value of exchange were discussed, including the ability of Hip Hop to bring marginalized voices to the table and to give young people a sense of community. In New York, participants will continue to explore methods for preserving Hip Hop history, diverse voices in arts programming, and the use of Hip Hop in educational initiatives.  They will finish the program in Raleigh and Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where they will learn about hip hop in academia and the role hip hop can play in diplomacy. This IVLP exchange is part of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, launched by Secretary of State Antony Blinken in September 2023, and aims to promote peace and democracy through music. The project also supports broader U.S. foreign policy goals to expand access to education, economic opportunity and equity, and societal inclusion. The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program.  Through short-term visits to the United States, current and emerging foreign leaders in a variety of fields experience this country firsthand and cultivate lasting relationships with their American counterparts. More than 200,000 International Visitors have engaged with Americans through the IVLP, including more than 500 current or former Heads of State or Government. For press inquiries, contact the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at ECA-Press@state.gov. Tags Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Cultural Exchanges District of Columbia Music Diplomacy New York North Carolina Office of the Spokesperson

United States Welcomes Switzerland and Sweden’s Signing of the Artemis Accords

04/17/2024

United States Welcomes Switzerland and Sweden’s Signing of the Artemis Accords 04/17/2024 10:22 AM EDT Office of the Spokesperson Yesterday, the United States welcomed Switzerland and Sweden into the Artemis Accords family as we strengthen collaboration in space, to include scientific research, education, commercial ventures, and efforts to ensure the sustainable use of space environments. Switzerland became the 37th signatory to the Artemis Accords on April 15 and Sweden became the 38th signatory on April 16. Swiss Federal Councillor and Head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education, and Research Guy Parmelin signed for Switzerland during a ceremony at NASA headquarters in the presence of NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and the State Department’s Office of Space Affairs Director Valda Vikmanis Keller. Sweden’s Minister for Education Dr. Mats Persson signed for Sweden during a ceremony in Stockholm in the presence of U.S. Ambassador Erik Ramanathan.  Participants viewed pre-recorded remarks by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. The Artemis Accords were established in 2020 by the United States and seven other countries.  They set out a practical set of principles to guide space exploration.  Switzerland and Sweden join 36 other nations – Angola, Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Czech Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Poland, the Republic of Korea, Romania, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Uruguay – in affirming the Accords’ principles for sustainable civil space activity.  The Department of State and NASA lead the United States’ outreach and implementation of the Accords. For more information, please visit https://www.state.gov/artemis-accords/.  For media inquiries, please contact OES-Press@state.gov.

United States Welcomes Switzerland and Sweden’s Signing of the Artemis Accords

04/17/2024

United States Welcomes Switzerland and Sweden’s Signing of the Artemis Accords 04/17/2024 10:22 AM EDT Office of the Spokesperson Yesterday, the United States welcomed Switzerland and Sweden into the Artemis Accords family as we strengthen collaboration in space, to include scientific research, education, commercial ventures, and efforts to ensure the sustainable use of space environments. Switzerland became the 37th signatory to the Artemis Accords on April 15 and Sweden became the 38th signatory on April 16. Swiss Federal Councillor and Head of the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education, and Research Guy Parmelin signed for Switzerland during a ceremony at NASA headquarters in the presence of NASA Administrator Bill Nelson and the State Department’s Office of Space Affairs Director Valda Vikmanis Keller. Sweden’s Minister for Education Dr. Mats Persson signed for Sweden during a ceremony in Stockholm in the presence of U.S. Ambassador Erik Ramanathan.  Participants viewed pre-recorded remarks by NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. The Artemis Accords were established in 2020 by the United States and seven other countries.  They set out a practical set of principles to guide space exploration.  Switzerland and Sweden join 36 other nations – Angola, Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Colombia, Czech Republic, Ecuador, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Poland, the Republic of Korea, Romania, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Uruguay – in affirming the Accords’ principles for sustainable civil space activity.  The Department of State and NASA lead the United States’ outreach and implementation of the Accords. For more information, please visit https://www.state.gov/artemis-accords/.  For media inquiries, please contact OES-Press@state.gov.

Assistant Secretary of State Satterfield Travels to Arizona and Hawaii

04/17/2024

Assistant Secretary of State Satterfield Travels to Arizona and Hawaii 04/17/2024 01:54 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs Lee Satterfield will travel to Tempe, Arizona and Honolulu, Hawaii from April 17 to April 24. While in Arizona, Assistant Secretary Satterfield will meet with Arizona State University (ASU) officials and participants in U.S. exchange programs to thank ASU for its longstanding partnership in advancing people-to-people ties through U.S. programs.  The visit will underscore the United States’ commitment to international education as a key component of public diplomacy and highlight the value of foreign policy through domestic engagement. While in Hawaii, Assistant Secretary Satterfield will deliver remarks on the importance of promoting connections between the United States and the Indo-Pacific region at the East-West Center Board of Governors’ meeting.  Additionally, the Assistant Secretary will also meet with INDOPACOM officials to discuss the important role Department exchange programs play in strengthening linkages between emerging leaders in government, business, and civil society across the Pacific and the United States. For further information, please contact ECA Press at ECA-Press@state.gov or visit www.eca.state.gov.

The United States of America and Italy Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Expand Collaboration on Countering Foreign State Information Manipulation

04/17/2024

The United States of America and Italy Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Expand Collaboration on Countering Foreign State Information Manipulation 04/17/2024 03:04 PM EDT Today, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Italy’s Vice President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation between the United States and Italy on countering foreign state information manipulation. Foreign state information manipulation, which includes disinformation and propaganda, is a transnational security threat that can create or exploit divisions within and among countries, imperil election integrity, and undermine public trust in government.  Recognizing that the threat faced requires coordinated action, this memorandum of understanding demonstrates the U.S. and Italian commitment to expand cooperation against foreign disinformation both bilaterally and multilaterally, including through the G7 of which Italy currently holds the presidency.  The signing ceremony took place in Capri, Italy, on the margins of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, hosted by Italy. The actions set forth in this MOU are expected to advance a coordinated effort by the United States and Italy to counter the threat of foreign state information manipulation while respecting freedom of expression online and offline.  As Allies, partners, and friends, the United States and Italy plan to align policies along the five key action areas established in the U.S. Department of State’s Framework to Counter Foreign State Information Manipulation.  This MOU is an important step towards protecting a free, open, and fact-based global information environment.

The United States of America and Italy Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Expand Collaboration on Countering Foreign State Information Manipulation

04/17/2024

The United States of America and Italy Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Expand Collaboration on Countering Foreign State Information Manipulation 04/17/2024 03:04 PM EDT Today, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Italy’s Vice President of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen cooperation between the United States and Italy on countering foreign state information manipulation. Foreign state information manipulation, which includes disinformation and propaganda, is a transnational security threat that can create or exploit divisions within and among countries, imperil election integrity, and undermine public trust in government.  Recognizing that the threat faced requires coordinated action, this memorandum of understanding demonstrates the U.S. and Italian commitment to expand cooperation against foreign disinformation both bilaterally and multilaterally, including through the G7 of which Italy currently holds the presidency.  The signing ceremony took place in Capri, Italy, on the margins of the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, hosted by Italy. The actions set forth in this MOU are expected to advance a coordinated effort by the United States and Italy to counter the threat of foreign state information manipulation while respecting freedom of expression online and offline.  As Allies, partners, and friends, the United States and Italy plan to align policies along the five key action areas established in the U.S. Department of State’s Framework to Counter Foreign State Information Manipulation.  This MOU is an important step towards protecting a free, open, and fact-based global information environment.

United States Announces $508 Million to Protect Our Ocean

04/17/2024

United States Announces $508 Million to Protect Our Ocean 04/17/2024 03:20 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson At the ninth Our Ocean Conference (OOC) in Greece, the United States is turning ambition into action with the announcement of more than $508 million to protect our ocean by advancing marine protected areas, maritime security, the sustainable blue economy and sustainable fisheries, supporting ocean solutions to the climate crisis, and combating marine pollution. To create and support sustainable blue economies, the United States announced: $8.5 million for the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation to collaborate with the Atlantic community on Atlantic Ocean observation, marine spatial planning, scientific capacity building, and sustainable blue economy development, subject to Congressional notification. The Ocean-Based Climate Resilience Accelerators Program to develop business accelerators aligned with marine-based climate resilience theme areas. $1.9 million to support the conservation of ecosystems in the Caribbean region through sustainable financing. $2 million in additional funding for the Conserving Coastal Ecosystems activity in Honduras to improve coastal ecosystem management. An additional $1.7 million for USAID’s Central America Regional Coastal Biodiversity Project to conserve biodiversity in targeted coastal-marine areas and associated upland ecosystems. An additional $817,540 for the Women Shellfishers and Food Security project, subject to the availability and Congressional notification of funds, which supports women shellfishers and mangrove conservation in The Gambia and Ghana. $1 million to protect illegally traded wildlife, including sea life, by reducing illegal collection and poaching activities in the Caribbean region linked to international trade demands for food, jewelry, souvenirs, pets, and medicines. $2.4 million to enhance protection, rehabilitation, and conservation of critical marine and coastal ecosystems, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass in Madagascar. To address the ocean-climate nexus, the United States announced: Publication of its National Ocean Acidification Action Plan. $100,000 to support implementation of the International Maritime Organization Greenhouse Gas Strategy in developing countries, in particular small island developing states and least-developed countries. $1 million, subject to Congressional notification and completion of domestic procedures, to facilitate Green Shipping Corridors in developing countries. $6 million, subject to Congressional notification and the completion of domestic procedures, to expand the Information Services for Resilience Initiative and to support access to early warning systems for Pacific Island communities. $4.5 million, subject to Congressional notification and the completion of domestic procedures, to support the Pacific Islands Forum Pacific Resilience Facility. Reiteration of its position that sea-level rise driven by human-induced climate change should not cause any country to lose its statehood or its membership in the United Nations, its specialized agencies, or other international organizations. Its first-ever Ocean Justice Strategy to advance environmental justice for communities that rely on the ocean and marine resource $20 million to validate satellite ocean observation data for use in ocean-climate research. $19 million to conduct interdisciplinary aquatic-focused research to advance our understanding of the earth system. $6.5 million to conduct carbon monitoring science for a better quantification of ocean-based carbon. $750,000 by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for efforts to enhance storm surge forecasting and preparedness in the central Caribbean (Bahamas, Dominican Republic, and Cayman Islands). The release of the updated Climate Literacy Guide. $2.4 million in expanded support for island climate resilience and to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the Local2030 Islands Network. The first-ever Climate Resilience Regional Challenge grant program for U.S. coastal and Great Lakes communities that will advance NOAA’s efforts to build Climate-Ready Coasts by increasing the resilience of coastal communities to extreme weather (e.g., hurricanes and storm surge) and other impacts of climate change, including sea level rise and drought. A new Industry Proving Grounds (IPG) Program to promote the development and use of actionable climate information. $4 million from the U.S. Navy to support the design of a coastal class research vessel with a novel hybrid-hydrogen propulsion system. $92 million from the U.S. Navy and other U.S. Government Agencies for ocean-climate research, including the impacts of extreme weather events on ocean and coastal ecosystems and the impacts of rising sea levels. $68 million from the U.S. Navy to study climate impacts in the Arctic Ocean. $400,000 for an initiative that connects young leaders in their role as ocean caretakers and advocates via the Blue Pacific Youth Initiative by elevating climate literacy, bolstering community adaptation projects, and reinforcing disaster mitigation plans. Support for the allocation of $537,200 of funding previously provided by the Department of Energy to the International Atomic Energy Agency to support the Ocean Acidification Coordination Center. $4.4 million to establish a Melanesian Youth Climate Corps with partner Social Solutions International to equip young leaders in Fiji, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to advance disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation efforts in their own communities. To advance marine protected areas, the United States announced: More than $18.4 million to expand scientific collaborations in support of conservation of marine biodiversity. $5.8 million to improve the management of marine biodiversity and marine protected areas in the Caribbean. $13.4 million, subject to Congressional notification, towards protecting important coral reef habitat and strengthening community fisheries in Tanzania. To advance sustainable fisheries, the United States announced: A total of $667,500 to advance marine science and sustainable living marine resource management in international fisheries and marine science organizations. $26 million in 2023 funding for the Pacific Island parties to the South Pacific Tuna Treaty to support fisheries management, development, and sustainability. $60 million for the Economic Assistance Agreement (EAA) associated with the South Pacific Tuna Treaty for 2024, subject to Congressional appropriations, to promote economic development and fisheries management in the Pacific Islands under the 2023-2033 EAA. $5 million to co-fund a fisheries and ocean science vessel to be managed by the SPC, subject to Congressional notification. The use of Inflation Reduction Act funding to apply new technologies and improve data to conserve and recover the endangered North Atlantic right whale. $20 million from the U.S. Navy for research on the protection of marine mammals. $353,000 to uncover and combat illegal fishing in seafood supply chains through the Countering Nature Crime activity. $1.8 million, subject to Congressional notification, to strengthen the adoption and implementation of sustainable fisheries policies, promote the adoption of sustainable fishing and aquaculture practices, and increase the technical capacity of fisheries agencies in Southeast Asia. $1.2 million, subject to Congressional notification, to improve the management of marine biodiversity and fisheries resources in the Indo-Pacific region. $3.3 million to combat the severe population declines of sharks and rays due to overexploitation in the Ecuadorian Exclusive Economic Zone, including the Galapagos Islands. To enhance maritime security, the United States announced: The execution of 80 mobile training team missions valued at $3.8 million in support of maritime security capacity building for 1,300 international personnel in 24 countries. The opening of the IUU Fishing Center of Excellence in Hawaii to support international engagement on combating IUU fishing in the Indo-Pacific. $60,000 to support Pacific Island countries’ participation at the Centre for International Law-Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security Workshop on resolving complex maritime boundary delimitation. CGC Harriet Lane as the newest Indo-Pacific Support Cutter. As part of the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) initiative, more than $11.4 million for efforts to bring cutting-edge maritime domain awareness technology to the Pacific Islands, and to facilitate coordination between relevant agencies on maritime law enforcement and information analysis in the Pacific Islands. The signing of a new bilateral maritime law enforcement agreement with Ecuador. The signing of a new bilateral maritime law enforcement agreement with Cote d’Ivoire. The launch of the Defense Operational Resilience International Cooperation (DORIC) Program and associated $10 million in support to allied and partner nation defense-related environmental and operational energy issues. The United States also announced the launch of an internal Department of Defense (DoD) working group to coordinate counter-IUU fishing activities in support of the National Five-Year Strategy to Combat IUU Fishing. $500,000 provided by the Department of the Navy to support the Coastal Surveillance System in Palau. To combat marine pollution, the United States announced: Plans to support and participate in five international exercises to strengthen oil spill response preparedness globally. The opening of the Marine Environmental Response Regional Activities Center to assist partner nations prepare for and respond to marine pollution incidents. $14.5 million for the launch of the End Plastic Pollution International Collaborative, or EPPIC. Support for the allocation of $143,000 of funding previously provided as voluntary contributions from the Department of Energy to the International Atomic Energy Agency to support the Agency’s NUTEC Plastics initiative. Support for the allocation of $1.2 million of funding previously provided by the Department of Energy to the International Atomic Energy Agency to support a project in Indonesia on recycling plastic waste before they can reach the ocean. An additional $62.5 million for the Save Our Seas Initiative with the goal to eliminate plastic leakage into the environment by 2040. For further information, please contact OES-Press@state.gov, or visit the Our Ocean Conference website.

United States Announces $508 Million to Protect Our Ocean

04/17/2024

United States Announces $508 Million to Protect Our Ocean 04/17/2024 03:20 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson At the ninth Our Ocean Conference (OOC) in Greece, the United States is turning ambition into action with the announcement of more than $508 million to protect our ocean by advancing marine protected areas, maritime security, the sustainable blue economy and sustainable fisheries, supporting ocean solutions to the climate crisis, and combating marine pollution. To create and support sustainable blue economies, the United States announced: $8.5 million for the Partnership for Atlantic Cooperation to collaborate with the Atlantic community on Atlantic Ocean observation, marine spatial planning, scientific capacity building, and sustainable blue economy development, subject to Congressional notification. The Ocean-Based Climate Resilience Accelerators Program to develop business accelerators aligned with marine-based climate resilience theme areas. $1.9 million to support the conservation of ecosystems in the Caribbean region through sustainable financing. $2 million in additional funding for the Conserving Coastal Ecosystems activity in Honduras to improve coastal ecosystem management. An additional $1.7 million for USAID’s Central America Regional Coastal Biodiversity Project to conserve biodiversity in targeted coastal-marine areas and associated upland ecosystems. An additional $817,540 for the Women Shellfishers and Food Security project, subject to the availability and Congressional notification of funds, which supports women shellfishers and mangrove conservation in The Gambia and Ghana. $1 million to protect illegally traded wildlife, including sea life, by reducing illegal collection and poaching activities in the Caribbean region linked to international trade demands for food, jewelry, souvenirs, pets, and medicines. $2.4 million to enhance protection, rehabilitation, and conservation of critical marine and coastal ecosystems, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass in Madagascar. To address the ocean-climate nexus, the United States announced: Publication of its National Ocean Acidification Action Plan. $100,000 to support implementation of the International Maritime Organization Greenhouse Gas Strategy in developing countries, in particular small island developing states and least-developed countries. $1 million, subject to Congressional notification and completion of domestic procedures, to facilitate Green Shipping Corridors in developing countries. $6 million, subject to Congressional notification and the completion of domestic procedures, to expand the Information Services for Resilience Initiative and to support access to early warning systems for Pacific Island communities. $4.5 million, subject to Congressional notification and the completion of domestic procedures, to support the Pacific Islands Forum Pacific Resilience Facility. Reiteration of its position that sea-level rise driven by human-induced climate change should not cause any country to lose its statehood or its membership in the United Nations, its specialized agencies, or other international organizations. Its first-ever Ocean Justice Strategy to advance environmental justice for communities that rely on the ocean and marine resource $20 million to validate satellite ocean observation data for use in ocean-climate research. $19 million to conduct interdisciplinary aquatic-focused research to advance our understanding of the earth system. $6.5 million to conduct carbon monitoring science for a better quantification of ocean-based carbon. $750,000 by the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for efforts to enhance storm surge forecasting and preparedness in the central Caribbean (Bahamas, Dominican Republic, and Cayman Islands). The release of the updated Climate Literacy Guide. $2.4 million in expanded support for island climate resilience and to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the Local2030 Islands Network. The first-ever Climate Resilience Regional Challenge grant program for U.S. coastal and Great Lakes communities that will advance NOAA’s efforts to build Climate-Ready Coasts by increasing the resilience of coastal communities to extreme weather (e.g., hurricanes and storm surge) and other impacts of climate change, including sea level rise and drought. A new Industry Proving Grounds (IPG) Program to promote the development and use of actionable climate information. $4 million from the U.S. Navy to support the design of a coastal class research vessel with a novel hybrid-hydrogen propulsion system. $92 million from the U.S. Navy and other U.S. Government Agencies for ocean-climate research, including the impacts of extreme weather events on ocean and coastal ecosystems and the impacts of rising sea levels. $68 million from the U.S. Navy to study climate impacts in the Arctic Ocean. $400,000 for an initiative that connects young leaders in their role as ocean caretakers and advocates via the Blue Pacific Youth Initiative by elevating climate literacy, bolstering community adaptation projects, and reinforcing disaster mitigation plans. Support for the allocation of $537,200 of funding previously provided by the Department of Energy to the International Atomic Energy Agency to support the Ocean Acidification Coordination Center. $4.4 million to establish a Melanesian Youth Climate Corps with partner Social Solutions International to equip young leaders in Fiji, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to advance disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation efforts in their own communities. To advance marine protected areas, the United States announced: More than $18.4 million to expand scientific collaborations in support of conservation of marine biodiversity. $5.8 million to improve the management of marine biodiversity and marine protected areas in the Caribbean. $13.4 million, subject to Congressional notification, towards protecting important coral reef habitat and strengthening community fisheries in Tanzania. To advance sustainable fisheries, the United States announced: A total of $667,500 to advance marine science and sustainable living marine resource management in international fisheries and marine science organizations. $26 million in 2023 funding for the Pacific Island parties to the South Pacific Tuna Treaty to support fisheries management, development, and sustainability. $60 million for the Economic Assistance Agreement (EAA) associated with the South Pacific Tuna Treaty for 2024, subject to Congressional appropriations, to promote economic development and fisheries management in the Pacific Islands under the 2023-2033 EAA. $5 million to co-fund a fisheries and ocean science vessel to be managed by the SPC, subject to Congressional notification. The use of Inflation Reduction Act funding to apply new technologies and improve data to conserve and recover the endangered North Atlantic right whale. $20 million from the U.S. Navy for research on the protection of marine mammals. $353,000 to uncover and combat illegal fishing in seafood supply chains through the Countering Nature Crime activity. $1.8 million, subject to Congressional notification, to strengthen the adoption and implementation of sustainable fisheries policies, promote the adoption of sustainable fishing and aquaculture practices, and increase the technical capacity of fisheries agencies in Southeast Asia. $1.2 million, subject to Congressional notification, to improve the management of marine biodiversity and fisheries resources in the Indo-Pacific region. $3.3 million to combat the severe population declines of sharks and rays due to overexploitation in the Ecuadorian Exclusive Economic Zone, including the Galapagos Islands. To enhance maritime security, the United States announced: The execution of 80 mobile training team missions valued at $3.8 million in support of maritime security capacity building for 1,300 international personnel in 24 countries. The opening of the IUU Fishing Center of Excellence in Hawaii to support international engagement on combating IUU fishing in the Indo-Pacific. $60,000 to support Pacific Island countries’ participation at the Centre for International Law-Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security Workshop on resolving complex maritime boundary delimitation. CGC Harriet Lane as the newest Indo-Pacific Support Cutter. As part of the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness (IPMDA) initiative, more than $11.4 million for efforts to bring cutting-edge maritime domain awareness technology to the Pacific Islands, and to facilitate coordination between relevant agencies on maritime law enforcement and information analysis in the Pacific Islands. The signing of a new bilateral maritime law enforcement agreement with Ecuador. The signing of a new bilateral maritime law enforcement agreement with Cote d’Ivoire. The launch of the Defense Operational Resilience International Cooperation (DORIC) Program and associated $10 million in support to allied and partner nation defense-related environmental and operational energy issues. The United States also announced the launch of an internal Department of Defense (DoD) working group to coordinate counter-IUU fishing activities in support of the National Five-Year Strategy to Combat IUU Fishing. $500,000 provided by the Department of the Navy to support the Coastal Surveillance System in Palau. To combat marine pollution, the United States announced: Plans to support and participate in five international exercises to strengthen oil spill response preparedness globally. The opening of the Marine Environmental Response Regional Activities Center to assist partner nations prepare for and respond to marine pollution incidents. $14.5 million for the launch of the End Plastic Pollution International Collaborative, or EPPIC. Support for the allocation of $143,000 of funding previously provided as voluntary contributions from the Department of Energy to the International Atomic Energy Agency to support the Agency’s NUTEC Plastics initiative. Support for the allocation of $1.2 million of funding previously provided by the Department of Energy to the International Atomic Energy Agency to support a project in Indonesia on recycling plastic waste before they can reach the ocean. An additional $62.5 million for the Save Our Seas Initiative with the goal to eliminate plastic leakage into the environment by 2040. For further information, please contact OES-Press@state.gov, or visit the Our Ocean Conference website. read more (part 1):https://politikinewsaaa.blogspot.com/2024/04/us-department-of-stateupdate-part-1.html