U.S.Department of State,update

New U.S.-led Actions Expand Global Commitments to Counter Commercial Spyware
09/22/2024



New U.S.-led Actions Expand Global Commitments to Counter Commercial Spyware
09/22/2024 03:11 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

Ahead of a groundbreaking inaugural September 22 meeting on the margins of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), the Department of State announced that Austria, Estonia, Lithuania, and the Netherlands have endorsed the Joint Statement on Efforts to Counter the Proliferation and Misuse of Commercial Spyware. Global support for this critical initiative has continued to expand – from an initial group of 11 like-minded partners to 21 – since its launch as a Presidential Initiative at the second Summit for Democracy in March 2023. The Joint Statement is part of the broader United States International Cyberspace and Digital Policy Strategy to advance digital solidarity by working closely with allies and partners to ensure digital technologies are used in a responsible and rights-respecting manner.

At the September 22 gathering – led by the White House’s Deputy Assistant to the President and Coordinator for Intelligence and Defense Policy Maher Bitar and Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for Democracy and Human Rights Kelly Razzouk, alongside Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Dafna Rand, Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations for Management and Reform Ambassador Chris Lu, and Coordinator for Digital Freedom Eileen Donahoe – member states discussed how to counter the proliferation and misuse of commercial spyware. The meeting builds on efforts led by the United States ahead of, and at, the third Summit for Democracy, hosted by South Korea, in March 2024, and the United States highlighted recent actions it has taken, including:On September 16, the Department of Treasury announced sanctions against five individuals and one entity associated with the Intellexa Consortium for their role in developing, operating, and distributing commercial spyware technology that presents a significant threat to the national security of the United States.On September 20, the Department of State announced that it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on multiple individuals who have been involved in the development and sale of commercial spyware. This is the second tranche of visa restrictions since Secretary Blinken announced the creation of this policy in February 2024.On September 22, the Department of State announced intent to commit $3 million in programmatic funding to support (1) civil society to engage in advocacy and research around repressive misuse of spyware and capacity building for the private sector, and academia, and (2) governments in low-, middle-, and upper-middle income countries around the world to support the development of regulations and policy measures to prevent the proliferation and misuse of commercial spyware.

Taken together, these actions demonstrate U.S. leadership in countering the threats posed by the proliferation and misuse of commercial spyware and send a strong signal that those who misuse, or enable the misuse, of this technology will face consequences.

Looking ahead, the Department of State will host its first commercial spyware-focused Human Rights Council side event on October 8. The event will bring together governments, civil society experts, and journalists who have themselves been targeted with spyware to discuss the growing risk that that misuse of such commercially available spyware tools poses to journalism, and how to protect journalists and their sources. Later this fall, the Department of Commerce will take additional actions associated with its Entity List on problematic commercial spyware vendors.

The proliferation and misuse of commercial spyware transcends borders and multilateral action will be a key element of our continued efforts. Our growing coalition of nations committed to reining in this industry will increase the difficulty of seeking refuge in jurisdictions with lax export policies, or obfuscating money flows and financial transactions.

To stay updated on U.S. Department of State cyber and digital policy issues, follow the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy on Twitter/X: @StateCDP and on LinkedIn: Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy. For press inquiries, e-mail: CDP-Press@state.gov.




Digital Press Briefing with National Security Council Director for Indo-Pacific Affairs Josh Rubin, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Camille Dawson, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Nancy Izzo Jackson
09/23/2024
Digital Press Briefing with National Security Council Director for Indo-Pacific Affairs Josh Rubin, U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Camille Dawson, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Nancy Izzo Jackson
09/23/2024 12:58 AM EDT



Josh Rubin, National Security Council Director for Indo-Pacific Affairs

Camille P. Dawson, Deputy Assistant SecretaryBureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs

Nancy Izzo Jackson, Deputy Assistant Secretary for IndiaBureau of South and Central Asian Affairs

MODERATOR: Greetings from the U.S. Department of State’s Asia Pacific Media Hub. I would like to welcome journalists to today’s on-the-record briefing with National Security Council Director for Indo-Pacific Affairs Josh Rubin, Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Camille P. Dawson, and Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Nancy Izzo Jackson. Together they will provide a readout of the Quad Leaders’ Summit that took place in Wilmington, Delaware, on Saturday, September 21st, and discuss the Quad’s role in bolstering the strategic convergence among our countries, advancing our shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, and delivering concrete benefits for partners in the Indo-Pacific in key areas.

With that, let’s get started. A huge thanks to our speakers for joining us. Director Rubin, I’ll turn it over to you for your opening remarks.

MR RUBIN: Great, thanks so much, and thanks to all of you for joining. On Saturday, President Biden hosted the fourth in-person Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, the first time President Biden has hosted foreign leaders in his hometown as President. He welcomed Prime Minister Albanese, Prime Minister Kishida, and Prime Minister Modi into his home for bilateral discussions, and then also hosted a wide-ranging Quad Summit and leaders’ dinner at Archmere Academy.

Four years after elevating the Quad to the leader level, this weekend summit showed that the Quad is more strategically aligned than ever before, the Quad is delivering real, positive impact for the Indo-Pacific region, and the Quad is here to stay.

As this year’s joint leaders’ statement, the Wilmington Declaration, makes clear, the United States, Australia, India, and Japan unequivocally stand for the maintenance of peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region and share a vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. The leaders reaffirmed that the Quad will continue to deliver for partners in the region in the areas they identify as priorities, and the leaders reiterated that the Quad will continue to support and complement the work of regional institutions, including ASEAN, the Pacific Islands Forum, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association. Quad leaders spoke with one voice about our shared concern over recent developments in the region that undermine a free and open Indo-Pacific, including in the maritime domain.

Every month, every year that passes, the Quad’s strategic alignment grows. This year’s Quad Summit also yielded some major new announcements that reflect the Quad’s positive agenda for the Indo-Pacific region.

First and foremost, the Quad Cancer Moonshot – a historic collaboration that mobilizes commitments from the Quad countries and major foundations and companies to collectively invest over $150 million and allocate up to 40 million vaccine doses to prevent, treat, and screen for cervical cancer in the Indo-Pacific region. At the Quad Summit’s marquee side event, each Quad leader announced major new commitments to help end cancer as we know it in the Indo-Pacific region. Altogether, scientific experts assessed that the Quad Cancer Moonshot will save hundreds of thousands of lives over the coming decades.

The Quad also unveiled important new initiatives to support maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. These include providing new technology and new training to over two dozen partners to help them identify and monitor dark vessels in their exclusive economic zones. The Quad will also launch the first-ever coast guard cooperation, which will feature members of the Australian, Indian, and Japanese coast guards on board a U.S. Coast Guard vessel next year and continuing on a rotational basis as appropriate.

The Quad leaders announced new critical and emerging technology projects, trusted telecommunications investments in the Pacific and Southeast Asia, and new efforts to invest in, repair, and secure undersea cables in the region.

Twenty years ago, in 2004, the Quad first came together to respond to the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami, and earlier this year the Quad stood with the people of Papua New Guinea after the tragic landslide there, investing over $5 million of support. This weekend Quad leaders announced over $4 million in support to the people of Vietnam following Typhoon Yagi to support recovery efforts there and in the region.

The Quad also announced the forward positioning of essential relief supplies across the Indo-Pacific to ensure that we are able to respond quickly and efficiently in the event of future natural disasters.

Finally, the Quad leaders closed the summit and the Wilmington Declaration by reaffirming that the Quad is here to stay. Over the past four years, Quad cooperation has grown roots across each of our governments at every level and across agencies. From annual leader-level meetings, biannual foreign ministers meetings that began in 2019, and over a dozen Quad working groups that meet regularly in person and virtually, the Quad is cooperating and delivering at an unprecedented pace and scale.

This weekend the leaders announced that all of our counties have committed to work through our respective budgetary processes to secure robust funding for Quad priorities. The leaders also announced that our commerce and industry ministers will meet for the first time in the months ahead.

Here in the United States, the Quad enjoys broad bipartisan support. The last U.S. administration elevated the Quad to the foreign ministers level before President Biden elevated it further to the leader level in 2021. In the days leading up to this year’s summit, members of Congress announced a bipartisan, bicameral Quad Caucus to continue to support the Quad’s efforts going forward, and Quad leaders announced and agreed that next year’s Quad Leaders Summit will take place in India.

Altogether, the Quad has a burst of momentum heading into 2025 and will be an enduring part of the Indo-Pacific regional architecture.

I’ll turn it over to Camille next and then look forward to your questions.

MS DAWSON: Thank you, Josh, and it’s really great to be speaking with everyone today on the heels of what was a very successful Quad Leaders Summit in Wilmington, Delaware. As Josh mentioned, this was President Biden’s first time hosting foreign leaders in Wilmington as President, and that’s a reflection of his deep personal relationships with each of the Quad leaders as well as a reflection of the importance of the Quad to all of our countries.

I am excited to discuss some additional key deliverables from the meeting. I expect that you’ve all read the joint statement and seen the fact sheets, and you know that leaders announced many things that the Quad is doing to deliver concrete benefits for the region, and that they discussed our shared vision for a free, open, prosperous, secure, and resilient Indo-Pacific.

These accomplishments and the commitments that were announced range from fighting cancer, strengthening health security, addressing climate change, investing in critical and emerging technologies, advancing regional connectivity and infrastructure, to supporting maritime security for the Indo-Pacific.

So I’d like to highlight a few examples that show how the Quad has delivered real, tangible public goods for the people of the region, and then I’ll turn it over to Nancy to offer additional comments.

Adding to Josh’s initial remarks about the Quad Cancer Moonshot, this landmark initiative will serve to strengthen the overall cancer care ecosystem in the Indo-Pacific by improving health infrastructure, expanding research collaborations, building data systems, and providing greater support for cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and care. The United States will support HPV vaccine expert exchanges with Pacific Islands partners and boost HPV vaccination programs, including through an unprecedented pledge of $1.58 billion to Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation will look to support eligible private sector-driven projects to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer, including cervical cancer.

Then, building off our announcement earlier this year that the Quad is bringing Open RAN communications technology to Palau, we are also expanding on this model through Open RAN expansion to the Philippines, and we look forward to introducing Open RAN to additional countries across the Indo-Pacific in the future.

The Quad is also excited to announce its Ports of the Future Partnership, where we intend to coordinate, leverage resources, and share best practices with partners in the region to support quality port infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific region. Our first deliverable with this initiative will be an inaugural regional ports and transportation conference that will be hosted by India.

These are just some of the slate of new initiatives that the Quad announced at the summit. Of course, you can read about the many other deliverables in the summit fact sheet that was released by the White House, and I hope that you will do that.

And I will now turn the time over to Deputy Assistant Secretary Nancy Jackson.

MS JACKSON: Thank you so much, Camille, and thank you, everyone, for being with us this evening, this morning. I’d just like to reiterate a few points. One, and first and foremost, is that this summit really shows the Quad is more aligned and more integrated and more rooted in the region than ever before. This was the sixth time that Quad leaders have met and the fourth time in person since the Quad was elevated to the leaders level in 2021, as Josh mentioned. And since 2019, our Quad foreign ministers have met eight times, including most recently in Tokyo in July.

Our governments are working together at unprecedented scope and scale to deliver for the region. And in addition to the comments that DAS Dawson made, I’d like to focus my remarks on how the Quad partners have deepened their collaboration in logistics and the maritime space, expanding or providing new maritime security public goods to the region.

So two examples really illustrate this progress. First, the leaders – this leaders summit launched the Indo-Pacific Logistics Network pilot project, with a focus on supporting civilian response to natural disasters more rapidly and efficiently across the Indo-Pacific region through shared airlift capacity among the four nations.

Second, our Quad Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Doman Awareness initiative, or IPMDA, continues to expand and will now extend to the Indian Ocean region through the Indian Ocean Region Fusion Center hosted by India. We are also proud to announce a new regional Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific, or MAITRI, with an inaugural symposium in 2025 that will be hosted by India. This will enable our Indo-Pacific partners to maximize tools being provided through IPMDA and other Quad partner initiatives to monitor and secure their waters, enforce their laws, and deter unlawful behavior.

And then I’d also like to re-emphasize how over the past four years, the Quad has really become an enduring partnership. Quad ambassadors meet across the region, and indeed across the world, to exchange ideas and advance our shared priorities. Our Quad commerce and industry ministers will meet for the first time in the coming months, as well as leaders from our development finance institutions. And as Josh mentioned, our Congress just announced the creation of a Quad Caucus dedicated to supporting the Quad and the Indo-Pacific.

Most importantly, each of our leaders is committed to working through our respective budget processes to secure robust funding for the Quad’s priorities in the Indo-Pacific.

Ultimately, all of this cooperation is meant to benefit the people in the region with whom we share a vision of prosperity and stability. So thank you for taking the time to join us on this call today, and I look forward to your questions.

MODERATOR: Thank you. We will now turn to the question-and-answer portion of today’s briefing.

Our first question came in in advance from Will Ripley at CNN, based in Taipei: “What is President Biden telling the Quad about where U.S. foreign policy is headed when he leaves office? And is there any unfinished Quad business President Biden will try to conclude in the next four months?”

MR RUBIN: Great, thanks. This is Josh. Thanks for the question, Will. The President was very clear in his remarks on Saturday at the summit that the Quad is here to stay, and that’s a line you also heard Prime Minister Modi use in his remarks during the press pool spray yesterday, and it’s a line all four leaders agreed to include in the joint leaders statement – the Wilmington Declaration.

As we mentioned in the opening, the last U.S. administration elevated the Quad to the foreign ministers level in 2019, and President Biden then made the decision to elevate the Quad to the leader level in 2021. So we think there is broad bipartisan support for the Quad within the United States. That’s true on Capitol Hill as well. In addition to the bipartisan, bicameral Quad Caucus, the House of Representatives passed the Strengthening the Quad Act with nearly 400 votes earlier this year.

And the reason the Quad has such bipartisan support in the United States and broad-based support in each Quad country is because the Quad is critical to the future of the Indo-Pacific and all of our countries share that assessment.

In terms of priorities over the next four months, our top priority for the Quad will be implementing and following through on the commitments that our leaders made to ensure that we are delivering for our partners across the Indo-Pacific region.

MODERATOR: Thank you. Our next question will come from the live queue, from Satyam Kaushik from Indo-Asian News Service. You should be able to unmute yourself now. Let’s see. Satyam, can you unmute yourself? All right, maybe we’ll go to someone else first then. We have Colin Clark with – let’s see, Colin is with Breaking Defense in Sydney, Australia. Colin, you should be able to unmute yourself now.

QUESTION: There we go. Can you hear me?

MODERATOR: We – yes, we can.

QUESTION: Excellent. So the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency awarded a small contract earlier this year for a lot of the sort of data that the maritime domain effort will fuse. And I want to make sure, A, that that is part of the mix here. I know that Singapore and other – and Pacific Island countries are providing data. So is that happening? And B, how much money in total is being spent on this, and how much of that money is new?

MS JACKSON: Well, hearing no one answer, I will jump in, Colin. Thank you for the question. I don’t know the National Geospatial contract that you reference. I will say that the Quad’s Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness initiative, IPMDA, draws on commercially available satellite data that is provided by Quad countries through the fusion centers. So this is commercially available data that gets fed into the system.

I don’t have total funding numbers for all that has been spent by all four Quad countries on this initiative. It is being run – as I said, all four countries are contributing to this network.

MR RUBIN: And maybe I can just add a word, Nancy, to your great lay-down there because – just to get at the point of what was – what is new in maritime security that was announced at this summit. On top of the Indo-Pacific Partnership for Maritime Domain Awareness that was announced in 2022, we announced at the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and then again here at the Leaders’ Summit that India has taken the lead to extend the data sharing to the Indian Ocean region. So in sum, IPMDA is now covering over two dozen – benefitting over two dozen partners across the Indo-Pacific region.

The Quad leaders also announced that new technology on top of the radio frequency data that is already being provided to those over two dozen countries will be incorporated going forward. And we also announced a major new training initiative to ensure that our partners across the region are able to incorporate the data feeds that we are sharing into what they currently use, and to ensure that we sharpen the maritime picture for our partners across the region.

MODERATOR: Okay. Our next question came in from Satyam Kaushik, who typed in the question in the Q&A box from the Indo-Asian News Service based in – based in India. The question is: “There’s a section that believes the Quad hasn’t become as muscular as they would like, with softer issues occupying its agenda over real challenges in the South China Sea. Any comments on this? And has the focus on the Indo-Pacific diluted due to Russia’s war with Ukraine and the dominance of European continental security because of it? Doesn’t it benefit China, allowing a free pass for fresh aggression in the South China Sea or Taiwan Strait?” Over.

MR RUBIN: Sure. I’m happy to start on that one. As I said in the opening remarks, the Quad is working to deliver in the areas that our partners identify as priorities for them, and maritime security is a priority for many partners across the Indo-Pacific region; that is why the Quad is stepping up to ensure that countries across the region have a better ability and capacity to see what is happening in their exclusive economic zones. So we will continue to do that in partnership with countries across the region because it is at their request and in partnership with them.

On issues across the region that are obviously of concern, including in the South China Sea, East China Sea, and elsewhere, I will just note that this year’s Quad joint leaders’ statement included the strongest-ever language that Quad leaders have used on issues in the South China Sea in particular as well as issues related to the increasing provocations from North Korea as well.

So I think you can continue to expect that when – that the Quad will stand up for a free and open Indo-Pacific region. And when actions are taken that undermine a free and open Indo-Pacific region, the Quad will continue to speak out on those.

MS JACKSON: Hey, it’s Nancy again. I’m just going to add on to Josh’s good comments, just to note that the war in Ukraine does not dilute our focus on the Indo-Pacific. I think it’s clear by just the sheer number of meetings that we have at the foreign minister and the leaders’ level, we demonstrate our continued commitment to this region. And there’s no dilution in terms of our focus in trying to really promote an open and safe and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

MODERATOR: Thank you. Our next question goes to Rurika Imahashi with Nikkei, based in Sydney, Australia. Rurika, you should be able to unmute yourself now.

QUESTION: Hi, thank you for taking my question. My name is Rurika Imahashi from Nikkei. So Australia and the U.S. have been increasing cooperation on setting up alternative supply chains for critical minerals, but oversupply and volatile prices have made the financing of new projects difficult. What exactly will be done from the U.S. end to support the sector in Australia?

MS DAWSON: This is Camille. I can respond to that very briefly because this call is not specifically focused on the U.S.-Australia bilateral relationship. I can’t speak to the details of what we might do on a bilateral basis.

But I can just speak a bit more broadly to say that the U.S. and Australia, of course, are working together to address supply chain issues broadly, both on a bilateral basis and as part of other groupings, to include IPEF, or the Indo-Pacific Economic Forum. As you may know, IPEF members have signed a first-of-its-kind international supply chain agreement, and that gives partners tools to collaborate to prevent supply chain disruptions, work together in the event of those interruptions or disruptions, and to be able to respond to prevent delays or shortages. So I think I’ll stop there.

MODERATOR: Okay. We have a question from Gordon Arthur at Defense News based in New Zealand. “What role does defense play in the Quad, and how much concern is there among the four partners about the belligerence and military coercion of China?”

MS DAWSON: So this is Camille. I can speak a little bit about that and will ask that Josh and/or Nancy add on to that. But I think the most important thing to note is that the Quad represents four maritime democracies. We share a vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. It is not a security pact. It’s not a military alliance. We do have bilateral defense relationships with all three Quad partners on a bilateral basis, and sometimes on a coordinated basis along with other partners. We do things in the defense cooperation space. But the Quad itself is not a defense or security organization, and we don’t intend for it to be so.

We are working together across the Quad to enable maritime security programs that help ensure that the region is building up the collective capacity to respond to the challenges that are faced in the region across multiple domains. I’ll stop there and ask if others have points to add.

MODERATOR: Okay. Maybe we’ll move to the one last question, then. We have Sidhant Sibal from WION News in Delhi, India. You should be able to unmute yourself now, Sidhant.

QUESTION: Hi, everyone. I’m Sidhant from WION. My question is on semiconductors, how is the Quad working? Anybody can answer.

MR RUBIN: Sure, I’m happy to start on this. The Quad has an entire workstream dedicated to critical and emerging technology, and ensuring that we are working with partners across the region as this important field develops. And the Quad remains committed to advancing cooperation on semiconductors specifically by better leveraging our complementary strengths to realize a diversified and competitive market, and to enhance the resilience of the Quad semiconductor supply chains.

There was a memorandum of cooperation between Quad countries for the Semiconductor Supply Chains Contingency Network. We also expect semiconductors and critical and emerging technology issues writ large to be a topic of discussion when Quad commerce and industry ministers meet for the first time in the coming months.

MODERATOR: Okay. If we have nothing more to add on that question, we will move to the closing remarks. Director Rubin, do you have anything you want to close us out with?

MR RUBIN: Just to say thank you to everybody for joining, to the State Department for putting this call on. The Quad summit, from our perspective, was incredibly successful and historic for President Biden’s legacy, and we’re confident it will be an enduring piece of the Indo-Pacific architecture going forward.

MODERATOR: DAS Dawson?

MS DAWSON: Sure. I just want to highlight a few main points that I think are reflected in the President hosting the Quad Leaders’ Summit, and that we’ve seen come out in the remarks that the leaders themselves made. The first is that I think it’s clear that the Quad is more strategically aligned than ever. The second is that the Quad is focused on delivering real results for our partners across the Indo-Pacific region, and doing that in the areas that the region itself has identified as most important for them.

And the third, and that we’ve touched on throughout the discussion, is that the Quad is not just an initiative of this administration or any one administration on the part of the U.S. or any of the four Quad countries, but rather this is an initiative that is designed to endure for the long term. And as Josh rightly pointed out, the leaders all emphasized that the Quad is here to stay. Thank you.

MODERATOR: Thank you, DAS Dawson. DAS Jackson, any last words?

MS JACKSON: Thank you. Just to echo all that my colleagues have said, and maybe just add one other point. We’re very excited about the future of the Quad. The Quad continues to focus on improving the lives of the people and communities across the Indo-Pacific and beyond. We are listening to the priorities of our regional partners and harnessing the considerable resources that our four countries bring; and in doing so, we’re advancing a very ambitious agenda for the benefit of the entire region. And I hope that some of the deliverables that we highlighted for you on this call demonstrate that. And with that, I’ll bid you all a good night.

MODERATOR: Thank you. That brings us to the end of our time for today. Thank you for all your questions. I’m sorry we couldn’t get through all of them. And a huge thanks to our speakers for joining us late on Sunday their time.

We will provide a transcript of this briefing to participating journalists as soon as it’s available, and we’d also love to hear your feedback. You can contact us at any time at AsiaPacMedia@state.gov. Thanks again for your participation, and we hope you can join us for another briefing soon.

# # #
Joint Statement on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
09/23/2024


Joint Statement on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
09/23/2024 11:41 AM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Joint Statement on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
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Joint Statement on Ukraine Energy Sector Support


Media Note





September 23, 2024



The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the G7+ Group on Ukraine Energy Sector Support on the occasion of their fifth Ministerial Meeting on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly.


Begin Text
We, the G7+ Ministerial Group, met on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly to reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s brutal and unjust attacks on Ukraine and it’s energy infrastructure.
We reaffirm our strong commitment to the territorial integrity, independence, and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and to focus on the key priorities needed to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on international law, including the UN Charter and its principles.
We strongly condemn Russia’s continuous missile and drone strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and cities across Ukraine, which have escalated since March 2024 and severely threaten Ukraine’s energy security and the Ukrainian people’s access to critical services including electricity, heat, and water during the cold winter months, which could be the harshest for Ukraine since at least its independence. We highlight the regional implications of such attacks, notably on the Republic of Moldova’s energy security. Russia must end its war of aggression and pay for the damage it has caused.
We recommit to supporting Ukraine’s immediate, medium, and long-term recovery and reconstruction in line with its path towards the EU and to work to involve our private sectors and local governments in the sustainable economic and social recovery of Ukraine. We welcome and underscore the significance of Ukraine’s commitment to business-enabling reforms that will establish a level playing field for investment in the energy sector. We stress the importance of the implementation of the National Energy and Climate Plan and the monitoring of this process. We will continue to support efforts of the Ukrainian government and people in these endeavors.
We stress the importance of implementation of energy sector reforms in line with the EU accession path and fulfilling obligations under the Energy Community Treaty, including OECD-compliant corporate governance standards. This is especially crucial ahead of the winter, given the scale of repairs and new energy infrastructure needs.
We acknowledge the need for international assistance to protect energy infrastructure from attacks, including through the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defense capabilities by the committed countries, and reaffirm our readiness to continue providing such assistance.
We condemn Russia’s seizure and continued control and militarization of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which threatens energy security. We emphasize that any use of nuclear energy and nuclear installations must be safe, secured, safe-guarded, and environmentally sound. With reference to the UNGA resolution from 11 July on “Safety and security of nuclear facilities of Ukraine, including the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant” we stress that Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant must return to the full sovereign control of Ukraine in line with IAEA principles and under its independent supervision.
We are convinced that rebuilding Ukraine’s energy system in the short and long term is in the interest of enhancing global energy security and sustainability.
We welcome further commitments to provide funding and in-kind support to address the Ukrainian energy sector’s most urgent needs, including repairs of damaged power plants and district heating systems, deployment of new, distributed power generation, emergency backup power for critical services, and passive protection for energy infrastructure. We call on the global community to urgently strengthen efforts in that regard and provide Ukraine with all assistance needed.
We underline the important work of international partners, banks, and the Energy Community’s “Ukraine Energy Support Fund” in this regard. We call upon international partners to elevate their financial contributions, in particular to the latter fund in order to improve Ukraine’s resilience next winter.
Based on the work of the Working Group on Energy Security and the outcomes of the First Global Peace Summit held on 15-16 June 2024 in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, as well as the results of a productive and constructive dialogue at the Energy Security Conference held on 22 August 2024, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to achieving a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace for Ukraine.
Based upon the Japan-Ukraine Conference for the Promotion of Economic Growth and Reconstruction in Tokyo, the 2024 Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) in Berlin and looking ahead to the November 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) and the 2025 URC in Italy, we are committed to continue supporting immediate needs and Ukraine’s vision of a more decentralized, diversified, resilient, and renewable/sustainable energy system that is fully integrated with Europe.


End Text



Tags
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Energy Office of the Spokesperson Ukraine UNGA 79


Joint Statement on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
09/23/2024

Joint Statement on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
09/23/2024 11:41 AM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Joint Statement on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
hide

Joint Statement on Ukraine Energy Sector Support


Media Note





September 23, 2024



The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the G7+ Group on Ukraine Energy Sector Support on the occasion of their fifth Ministerial Meeting on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly.


Begin Text
We, the G7+ Ministerial Group, met on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly to reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s brutal and unjust attacks on Ukraine and it’s energy infrastructure.
We reaffirm our strong commitment to the territorial integrity, independence, and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and to focus on the key priorities needed to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on international law, including the UN Charter and its principles.
We strongly condemn Russia’s continuous missile and drone strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and cities across Ukraine, which have escalated since March 2024 and severely threaten Ukraine’s energy security and the Ukrainian people’s access to critical services including electricity, heat, and water during the cold winter months, which could be the harshest for Ukraine since at least its independence. We highlight the regional implications of such attacks, notably on the Republic of Moldova’s energy security. Russia must end its war of aggression and pay for the damage it has caused.
We recommit to supporting Ukraine’s immediate, medium, and long-term recovery and reconstruction in line with its path towards the EU and to work to involve our private sectors and local governments in the sustainable economic and social recovery of Ukraine. We welcome and underscore the significance of Ukraine’s commitment to business-enabling reforms that will establish a level playing field for investment in the energy sector. We stress the importance of the implementation of the National Energy and Climate Plan and the monitoring of this process. We will continue to support efforts of the Ukrainian government and people in these endeavors.
We stress the importance of implementation of energy sector reforms in line with the EU accession path and fulfilling obligations under the Energy Community Treaty, including OECD-compliant corporate governance standards. This is especially crucial ahead of the winter, given the scale of repairs and new energy infrastructure needs.
We acknowledge the need for international assistance to protect energy infrastructure from attacks, including through the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defense capabilities by the committed countries, and reaffirm our readiness to continue providing such assistance.
We condemn Russia’s seizure and continued control and militarization of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which threatens energy security. We emphasize that any use of nuclear energy and nuclear installations must be safe, secured, safe-guarded, and environmentally sound. With reference to the UNGA resolution from 11 July on “Safety and security of nuclear facilities of Ukraine, including the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant” we stress that Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant must return to the full sovereign control of Ukraine in line with IAEA principles and under its independent supervision.
We are convinced that rebuilding Ukraine’s energy system in the short and long term is in the interest of enhancing global energy security and sustainability.
We welcome further commitments to provide funding and in-kind support to address the Ukrainian energy sector’s most urgent needs, including repairs of damaged power plants and district heating systems, deployment of new, distributed power generation, emergency backup power for critical services, and passive protection for energy infrastructure. We call on the global community to urgently strengthen efforts in that regard and provide Ukraine with all assistance needed.
We underline the important work of international partners, banks, and the Energy Community’s “Ukraine Energy Support Fund” in this regard. We call upon international partners to elevate their financial contributions, in particular to the latter fund in order to improve Ukraine’s resilience next winter.
Based on the work of the Working Group on Energy Security and the outcomes of the First Global Peace Summit held on 15-16 June 2024 in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, as well as the results of a productive and constructive dialogue at the Energy Security Conference held on 22 August 2024, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to achieving a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace for Ukraine.
Based upon the Japan-Ukraine Conference for the Promotion of Economic Growth and Reconstruction in Tokyo, the 2024 Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) in Berlin and looking ahead to the November 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) and the 2025 URC in Italy, we are committed to continue supporting immediate needs and Ukraine’s vision of a more decentralized, diversified, resilient, and renewable/sustainable energy system that is fully integrated with Europe.


End Text



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Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Energy Office of the Spokesperson Ukraine UNGA 79


Joint Statement on Establishment of the Minerals Security Partnership Finance Network
09/23/2024


Joint Statement on Establishment of the Minerals Security Partnership Finance Network
09/23/2024 11:35 AM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Joint Statement on Establishment of the Minerals Security Partnership Finance Network
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Joint Statement on Establishment of the Minerals Security Partnership Finance Network


Media Note





September 23, 2024



The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Australia, Canada, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the European Union (represented by the European Commission) on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, New York.


On 23 September, on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, the Minerals Investment Network for Vital Energy Security and Transition- MINVEST, a public-private partnership between the U.S. Department of State and SAFE Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, hosted development finance institutions (DFIs) and export credit agencies (ECAs) of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) partner governments in their announcement of the establishment of the MSP Finance Network. This network will strengthen cooperation and promote information exchange and co-financing among participating institutions to advance diverse, secure, and sustainable supply chains for critical minerals.


Partners emphasized that the scope and scale of meeting the rapidly increasing global demand for critical minerals to achieve the clean energy transition is beyond the purview of any single institution. The investment to deliver these goals will require the public sector and private sector to work together to deploy capital into new and existing markets in this sector. DFIs and ECAs have a key role to support MSP objectives through careful coordination to maximize effectiveness, identify and create synergies, and increase impact. The participating DFIs and ECAs discussed, including with representatives from the private sector, how they can work together to meet this challenge.


Creation of the MSP Finance Network reflects a desire to strengthen information sharing, coordination, and collaboration among the network participants. This will drive sustainable investment in global critical mineral supply chains, including by mobilizing private sector capital, in production, extraction, processing, recycling, and recovery projects. The participants also affirmed their commitment to advancing critical mineral projects that are sustainable and adhere to high environmental, social, governance, and labor principles and promote local value creation, with a clear and measurable positive development on local economies and communities. These standards are essential to ensuring that local communities see benefits from the important role critical minerals are playing in the global economy for years to come.


The Network includes the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), Export Finance Australia (EFA), Export Development Canada (EDC), Estonian Investment Agency, European Investment Bank (EIB), European Battery Alliance, Euler Hermes, Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), Finnvera, Finnfund, Nordic Investment Bank (NIB), InfraVia Capital, Banque publique d’investissement, Agence Française de Développement (AFD), Proparco, KfW Group, CDP (Cassa Depositi e Prestiti), SACE, SIMEST, Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC), NEXI (Nippon Export and Investment Insurance), Export Finance Norway (Eksfin), Innovasjon Norge, Export-Import Bank of Korea (KEXIM), Korea Mine Rehabilitation and Mineral Resources Corporation (KOMIR), Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-Sure), Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM), Exportkreditnämnden (EKN), UK Export Finance (UKEF), and British International Investment (BII), plus the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).


MSP partner DFIs, ECAs, and governments have achieved the following milestones in support of MSP projects, including:
Australian Strategic Materials (ASM): In March 2024, EXIM issued a non-binding Letter of Interest to ASM to provide potential debt financing up to US$600 million for the construction of the company’s rare earths and critical minerals Dubbo Project.
Electra Ontario Cobalt Refinery: Canadian-based Electra Battery Materials received a U.S. $20 million award in August 2024 from the Defense Production Act Investments (DPAI) office of the U.S. Department of Defense. This award will support the construction and commissioning of North America’s first cobalt sulfate refinery, capable of producing battery grade materials for lithium-ion batteries, at Electra’s facility in Temiskaming Shores, Ontario, Canada. Once fully commissioned, the facility can produce 6,500 tonnes of cobalt per year. In addition to cobalt refining, Electra plans to produce other battery materials at the same refinery complex, and in June 2024, Electra received a U.S. $3.6 (C$5) million award from Natural Resources Canada to advance the next phase of its battery materials recycling project.
ESS Inc: In June 2024, EXIM’s Board of Directors authorized $50 million in financing to ESS Inc. for its Wilsonville, Oregon facility, for the construction of several new long-duration iron flow battery storage production lines. The long-duration batteries are purpose-built for bulk storage by solar and wind renewable power providers. EXIM’s financing package consists of a final commitment to finance two production lines in the immediate term, plus a preliminary commitment to finance several additional production lines as ESS Inc. scales up its production capacity to meet customer demand, enabling the tripling of annual production capacity at their facility, to increase exports to Europe, Australia, and Africa. This authorization represents a contribution to the MSP and the global energy transition.
Kabanga Nickel: In August 2024, DFC signed a retainer letter with Kabanga Nickel Limited, a subsidiary of Lifezone Metals Ltd. (NYSE:LZM), to begin due diligence for political risk insurance on the Kabanga Nickel underground nickel-copper-cobalt mine site and the Kahama Hydromet refinery site in Tanzania. In September, DFC signed a non-binding letter with Kabanga Nickel Limited that expressed DFC’s interest in considering the project for loans as part of the project’s financing package.
Mahenge Graphite Project Tanzania: POSCO International, a major Korean trading firm signed the agreement to purchase shares in Black Rock Mining Ltd. for US$40 million to secure a supply of graphite from a Tanzanian mine. Black Rock Mining will bring POSCO Group’s total ownership to 19.9%. The Agreement will pave the way for the development of the Mahenge mine in Tanzania, owned by Black Rock Mining, with POSCO Group receiving 30,000 tons of graphite annually starting in 2026. The volume is set to reach up to 60,000 tons by 2028, which can be used in the production of 1.26 million electric vehicles. This contract is anticipated to significantly diversify Korea’s supply chain for graphite, helping to mitigate potential disruptions. Debt finance for the mine has been provided by a syndicate comprising the Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa, Development Bank of South African and Tanzanian based commercial bank CRDB. POSCO has committed to a US$10 million prepayment facility. The project hopes to attract equity support from European and North American investors.
Pensana Rare Earths: The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) approved a $3.4 million technical assistance grant for the Pensana Rare Earths project in Angola that will support feasibility studies and testing for expansion of a rare earth elements (REE) mine, as well as feasibility studies for REE refining facilities in Angola along the Lobito Corridor.
Queensland Pacific Metals (QPM): In July 2024, the Australian Government awarded QPM an AUD8 million (USD5.4 million) grant to bolster domestic nickel and cobalt production at QPM’s Townsville Energy Chemicals Hub. The Queensland State Government also announced up to AUD8 million (USD5.4 million) of funding to prepare the Project for investment readiness. Previously, QPM had received approximately AUD1.4 billion (USD900 million) in stated interest in debt participation, subject to conditions from financing agencies in Australia, Canada and Germany.


These announcements reinforce the MSP’s shared commitment to diversify global battery value chains.


In addition to MSP partners, like-minded partnering institutions such as the EBRD have achieved the following milestones in support of critical minerals projects around the world:
Sarytogan Graphite Limited: EBRD signed an equity investment of AUD 5 million into shares of Sarytogan Graphite Limited, an ASX-listed company involved in the development of Sarytogan graphite deposit in Kazakhstan, one of the largest and highest grade known graphite deposits globally. The proceeds from EBRD will support the project’s development program, including the preparation of a Bankable Feasibility Study.
Esan Eczacibasi: EBRD provided a USD 50 million loan in favor of Esan Eczacibasi Endustriyel Hammaddeler Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S. to finance decarbonization and electrification of mining operations and improvements in the operations’ efficiency at the Balya polymetallic (zinc/lead/copper) mine in Türkiye.
European Metal Holdings Ltd.: EBRD provided financial support to European Metals Holdings Ltd, an ASX and AIM listed company, focused on developing its lithium-tin Cinovec deposit in Czechia, the biggest hard-rock lithium deposit in Europe and one of the largest undeveloped tin resources in the world. The EUR 6 million investment financed the completion of pre-development works and studies to move the site towards full-scale production.


For previous announcements on other MSP project milestones, please see the following press releases:


The Minerals Security Partnership Welcomes New Deal in Minerals Offtake and Processing Between STL in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Umicore in Belgium – United States Department of State


Joint Statement of the Minerals Security Partnership – United States Department of State


Joint Statement on the Minerals Security Partnership Announce Support for Mining, Processing, and Recycling Projects – United States Department of State


For more information on the MSP, go to Minerals Security Partnership page. To stay up to date, follow Under Secretary Fernandez on X: @State_E, LinkedIn: @State-E, and Facebook: @StateDeptE. For media inquiries, please contact E_Communications@state.gov.



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Bureau of Energy Resources Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Energy Environment Finance Office of the Spokesperson Security


Secretary Antony J. Blinken with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at a G7+ Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
09/23/2024



Secretary Antony J. Blinken with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at a G7+ Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
09/23/2024 12:23 PM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

New York City, New York

Palace Hotel
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Antony J. Blinken with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at a G7+ Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
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Secretary Antony J. Blinken with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at a G7+ Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine Energy Sector Support


Remarks





September 23, 2024



SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone, and welcome again to High-Level Week here in New York. I think many of us are starting this day with what is a vitally important meeting, one that is not only timely but, I would even say, urgent. And I first want to thank my friend, my partner, my co-chair, the Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani – thank you so much, my friend, for doing this – and to welcome our other friend and colleague, the new foreign minister of Ukraine. Welcome. It’s very good to be with you today as well.


We have collectively, as G7 and other partner countries, worked to mobilize resources over the last couple of years for Ukraine, for its people, to ensure that they have the energy supplies that they need and that the country can deliver those supplies to the people who need them. Just over the last couple of years, going back to February of ‘22 and the Russian invasion, the G7+ countries have mobilized more than $4 billion. We’ve had new announcements just in the past month from Germany, from the Netherlands, and others. As for the United States, over $1.8 billion since February ‘22. Recently we’ve redirected $324 million toward emergency energy sector support, and as well we have the $500 million that were announced by Vice President Harris just this past June. And I was in Kyiv with my friend just a couple of weeks ago with additional announcements of support for more than $300 million.


Now, this money is important, but what it really means is it translates into practical necessities to help our Ukrainian friends get through the coming months, and particularly getting through the winter. We have once again not just the prospect but the reality of Putin weaponizing winter, weaponizing the weather, to use energy as a weapon in his efforts to subjugate Ukraine. And we know that the upcoming winter will be challenging, which is why our countries have been working together every single day to help ensure that Ukraine has what it needs to get through the winter.


So today we’ll discuss exactly where we are and where we need to go on an urgent basis in the days and weeks ahead – repairing and replacing things that are taken out by Russian bombs and missiles; protecting the different facilities on the grid; getting more power, distributed power, to Ukraine; mobilizing companies to make sure that they’re doing their part; working with the Europeans and the energy grid in Europe to make even more energy available to the Ukrainians. We’ll discuss these and other priorities as we head into the winter, but the bottom line is this: Every country around this table – and so many more – stand strongly and firmly with Ukraine. We’re determined to see Ukraine’s success. We’re determined to support its people as they face this ongoing aggression.


With that, Antonio.


FOREIGN MINISTER TAJANI: Good morning, everybody. Dear Secretary of State Blinken, dear Tony, thank you for organizing this timely meeting here in New York. It’s a great opportunity to discuss a very crucial issue for the people and the – of the – economy of Ukraine. I welcome the presence with us today of Minister Andrii Sybiha. Good luck. I am sure that we will have a fruitful cooperation.


I wish to express our solidarity with the Ukrainian Government and the people for the current intense Russian attacks to the energy infrastructures. The arrival of the winter is imminent, and we are very concerned by this situation. And we reaffirm our support to Ukraine and its energy sector.


Energy security is also at the top of our G7 resiliency. It was a very important item at the G7 foreign minister meeting in Capri last April. Ukraine will have a special place also at the G7 meeting that I will host in Fiuggi, in Italy, in November. We will host the Ukraine recovery conference in 2025. The energy sector will play an important role. Italy is strongly engaged on this on the bilateral level since the start of our – of the war. We provided several hundred tons of materials, including generators. Important Italian companies contributed with important donations.


In February we signed an agreement in Munich with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development; it’s a 200-million Euro project to restore the capacity of the main hydropower generation Ukraine company. We are working for the parliamentary ratification. In Berlin, we have announced a grant of 50 million Euro for urgent measures to repair Ukraine’s energy infrastructures. Our companies are ready to give their contribution and know-how.


Dear Andrii, count on me, count on Italian Government. Thank you.


SECRETARY BLINKEN: Andrii.


FOREIGN MINISTER SYBIHA: Dear friends, dear colleagues, let me express gratitude for your strong leadership, for your strong support, for your strong solidarity. By providing Ukraine with energy assistance, you are also providing additional energy to our people, to our fight. Russia continues its brutal strikes against our energy objects and against our energy system – endangering even nuclear facilities – and weaponizes energy around the world. But the leadership of G7 countries can help us to stop the aggressor, to stop Russia missile (inaudible).


We do really appreciate your support.



Tags
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Energy Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State Ukraine UNGA 79


Secretary Antony J. Blinken with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at a G7+ Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
09/23/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at a G7+ Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
09/23/2024 12:23 PM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

New York City, New York

Palace Hotel
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Antony J. Blinken with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at a G7+ Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine Energy Sector Support
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Secretary Antony J. Blinken with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha at a G7+ Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine Energy Sector Support


Remarks





September 23, 2024



SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone, and welcome again to High-Level Week here in New York. I think many of us are starting this day with what is a vitally important meeting, one that is not only timely but, I would even say, urgent. And I first want to thank my friend, my partner, my co-chair, the Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani – thank you so much, my friend, for doing this – and to welcome our other friend and colleague, the new foreign minister of Ukraine. Welcome. It’s very good to be with you today as well.


We have collectively, as G7 and other partner countries, worked to mobilize resources over the last couple of years for Ukraine, for its people, to ensure that they have the energy supplies that they need and that the country can deliver those supplies to the people who need them. Just over the last couple of years, going back to February of ‘22 and the Russian invasion, the G7+ countries have mobilized more than $4 billion. We’ve had new announcements just in the past month from Germany, from the Netherlands, and others. As for the United States, over $1.8 billion since February ‘22. Recently we’ve redirected $324 million toward emergency energy sector support, and as well we have the $500 million that were announced by Vice President Harris just this past June. And I was in Kyiv with my friend just a couple of weeks ago with additional announcements of support for more than $300 million.


Now, this money is important, but what it really means is it translates into practical necessities to help our Ukrainian friends get through the coming months, and particularly getting through the winter. We have once again not just the prospect but the reality of Putin weaponizing winter, weaponizing the weather, to use energy as a weapon in his efforts to subjugate Ukraine. And we know that the upcoming winter will be challenging, which is why our countries have been working together every single day to help ensure that Ukraine has what it needs to get through the winter.


So today we’ll discuss exactly where we are and where we need to go on an urgent basis in the days and weeks ahead – repairing and replacing things that are taken out by Russian bombs and missiles; protecting the different facilities on the grid; getting more power, distributed power, to Ukraine; mobilizing companies to make sure that they’re doing their part; working with the Europeans and the energy grid in Europe to make even more energy available to the Ukrainians. We’ll discuss these and other priorities as we head into the winter, but the bottom line is this: Every country around this table – and so many more – stand strongly and firmly with Ukraine. We’re determined to see Ukraine’s success. We’re determined to support its people as they face this ongoing aggression.


With that, Antonio.


FOREIGN MINISTER TAJANI: Good morning, everybody. Dear Secretary of State Blinken, dear Tony, thank you for organizing this timely meeting here in New York. It’s a great opportunity to discuss a very crucial issue for the people and the – of the – economy of Ukraine. I welcome the presence with us today of Minister Andrii Sybiha. Good luck. I am sure that we will have a fruitful cooperation.


I wish to express our solidarity with the Ukrainian Government and the people for the current intense Russian attacks to the energy infrastructures. The arrival of the winter is imminent, and we are very concerned by this situation. And we reaffirm our support to Ukraine and its energy sector.


Energy security is also at the top of our G7 resiliency. It was a very important item at the G7 foreign minister meeting in Capri last April. Ukraine will have a special place also at the G7 meeting that I will host in Fiuggi, in Italy, in November. We will host the Ukraine recovery conference in 2025. The energy sector will play an important role. Italy is strongly engaged on this on the bilateral level since the start of our – of the war. We provided several hundred tons of materials, including generators. Important Italian companies contributed with important donations.


In February we signed an agreement in Munich with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development; it’s a 200-million Euro project to restore the capacity of the main hydropower generation Ukraine company. We are working for the parliamentary ratification. In Berlin, we have announced a grant of 50 million Euro for urgent measures to repair Ukraine’s energy infrastructures. Our companies are ready to give their contribution and know-how.


Dear Andrii, count on me, count on Italian Government. Thank you.


SECRETARY BLINKEN: Andrii.


FOREIGN MINISTER SYBIHA: Dear friends, dear colleagues, let me express gratitude for your strong leadership, for your strong support, for your strong solidarity. By providing Ukraine with energy assistance, you are also providing additional energy to our people, to our fight. Russia continues its brutal strikes against our energy objects and against our energy system – endangering even nuclear facilities – and weaponizes energy around the world. But the leadership of G7 countries can help us to stop the aggressor, to stop Russia missile (inaudible).


We do really appreciate your support.



Tags
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Energy Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State Ukraine UNGA 79


Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a UN Security Council Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine
09/24/2024




Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a UN Security Council Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine
09/24/2024 05:38 PM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

New York City, New York

UN Headquarters
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a UN Security Council Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine
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Secretary Antony J. Blinken at a UN Security Council Ministerial Meeting on Ukraine


Remarks





September 24, 2024




SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, thank you very much, Mr. President. And welcome, President Zelenskyy.


We meet more than two and a half years since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, shredding the core principles of the United Nations Charter – sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence.


Every day since, Russia has waged a war of aggression – the textbook example of a threat to international peace and security that this council was created to prevent and address.


The question before us today is not what will Russia do. We already know that. Putin will continue to wage his unjust war.


The question before us is how we, members of this council, can end Putin’s war and reinforce the international rules and rights that make all of our nations safer and more secure.


There are two immediate and interrelated steps that we must take.


First, we must address Russia’s growing cooperation with North Korea and Iran.


Iran has been providing armed drones to the Kremlin since 2022. It built a drone factory in Russia. Just a few weeks ago, it transferred hundreds of short-range ballistic missiles to Russia, and Tehran has trained Russian military personnel in Iran how to operate these weapons.


Meanwhile, the DPRK has delivered trainloads of weapons and ammunition to Russia, including ballistic missiles, launchers, and millions of artillery rounds.


Support from Tehran and Pyongyang is helping Putin inflict carnage, suffering, and ruin on innocent Ukrainian men, women, and children; demolish Ukrainian apartment buildings, grain silos, and ports; ravage Ukrainian power plants, heating, and natural gas facilities just as freezing temperatures are setting in.


These actions by Iran, North Korea, and Russia have violated multiple Security Council resolutions – resolutions that Russia voted for, and as a permanent member, has a special responsibility to enforce.


This is also not a one-way street.


The more Russia relies on their support, the more Iran and North Korea extract in return.


And the more Putin gives to Pyongyang and Tehran, the more he exacerbates threats to peace and security – not just in Europe, but in the Indo-Pacific, in the Middle East, all around the globe.


As North Korea ramps up its military support for Russia, Putin has reciprocated with military commitments and with money.


The two countries recently revived a treaty pledging to provide military assistance if either is invaded. In March, Russia used its veto to end the work of the UN Panel of Experts on the DPRK, which for 14 years had monitored the regime’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Russia’s banks are helping North Korea evade sanctions, freeing up more funds for its unlawful weapons programs.


All this for a regime that has carried out more than 150 ballistic missile tests since 2022 and whose leader routinely threatens to obliterate South Korea and Japan and other countries.


Meanwhile, as Tehran provides Putin with drones, ballistic missiles, and training, Russia is sharing technology with Iran on nuclear issues, as well as space information. The two countries have accelerated negotiations on a comprehensive strategic partnership. Last year, Russia announced plans to send Iran advanced fighter aircraft and attack helicopters.


This as Iran continues to arm, to train, and to fund proxies in the Middle East to carry out terrorist attacks across the region and beyond – including Hamas, whose appalling October 7th attacks killed civilians from over a dozen UN member-states; and including the Houthis, whose attacks on international shipping have driven up the cost of food, of medicine, other supplies for people around the world, and have added to the suffering of the Yemeni people.


North Korea and Iran are not the only ones aiding and abetting Russia. China, another permanent member of this council, is the top provider of machine tools, microelectronics, and other items that Russia is using to rebuild, to restock, to ramp up its war machine and sustain its brutal aggression.


Now, some may ask how the United States or any other country helping Ukraine defend itself can criticize countries for providing military support to Russia.


There is a profound difference.


Russia is the aggressor; Ukraine, the victim.


Russia fights for conquests. Ukraine fights for survival.


If countries stopped supporting Russia, Putin’s invasion would soon come to an end.


If countries stopped supporting Ukraine, Ukraine could soon come to an end.


This brings me to the second step that members of this council can take.


One of the council’s primary responsibilities is seeking to peacefully resolve conflicts. As President Zelenskyy has said, no one wants peace more than Ukraine.


The United States also wants to end this conflict. And before Putin launched his full invasion, we used every tool we could to try to prevent it, including right here at the Security Council.


But the way the council seeks to end this conflict matters. The UN Charter is crystal clear on this point. When fulfilling its responsibilities, the Security Council, and I quote, “shall act in accordance with the purpose and principles of the United Nations,” end quote. In other words, we must seek a peace that upholds, rather than undermines the UN’s core tenets.


That’s why all of us here have a responsibility to support Ukraine’s call for a just and lasting peace to end Russia’s war of aggression.


A just and lasting peace must affirm the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence.


A just and lasting peace must preserve Ukraine’s right to choose its own path, its own allies, its own future.


A just and lasting peace requires Ukraine’s full participation – and assent.


A just and lasting peace must support Ukraine’s reconstruction and recovery, with Russia paying to fix the damage it’s caused.


A just and lasting peace must address both accountability and reconciliation.


The United States is ready and willing to work with any partner dedicated to supporting peace based on these principles.


Ukraine has said multiple times that diplomacy is the only way to end this war – and that it’s prepared to engage in negotiations.


Putin, on the other hand, has no interest in such a peace – recently declaring that Russia would return to the negotiating table only when Ukraine withdraws its troops from Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, Zaporizhzhya; in other words, when Ukraine withdraws from its own territory.


Putin continues to claim, falsely, that Ukraine is not a real state. He continues to deny that the Ukrainian people have their own identity. In Putin’s eyes, the Ukrainian people – like Ukraine itself – do not exist.


Other countries have put forward their own proposals – some of which make no mention of the UN Charter or its principles, fail to distinguish between the aggressor and the aggressed, and call on all sides to de-escalate.


A proposal along these lines would reward Putin’s aggression, allow him to rest, re-arm, re-invade Ukraine – as he has done time and again. It would also embolden would-be aggressors everywhere around the world.


As history teaches us, peace without principle is prologue to more conflict, to more suffering, to more instability.


So, to all nations who want this conflict to end – and do it in a way that will endure – the quickest way forward is simple: stop those who are enabling and fueling Putin’s aggression and demand a just peace that upholds the principles of the United Nations Charter.


I thank you, Mr. President.



Tags
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Bureau of Political-Military Affairs Conflicts Democracy Human Rights and Democracy Office of the Spokesperson Political-Military Cooperation Russia The Secretary of State Ukraine UNGA 79 United Nations


Guatemala: $5 Million in Food Security Assistance through the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils
09/24/2024


Guatemala: $5 Million in Food Security Assistance through the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils
09/24/2024 09:09 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

On the margins of the UN General Assembly, U.S. Department of State Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and Environment Jose W. Fernandez announced $5 million in food security assistance that will advance the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) in Guatemala. Joining from the Roosevelt House Public Policy Institute at Hunter College, the Common Fund Commodities and Cargill also highlighted their VACS efforts for Guatemalan communities.

The $5 million Feed the Future activity will contribute to existing programs and aims to enhance sustainable agricultural practices among Guatemalan farmers. The project will implement capacity-building activities and increase innovative agricultural practices and technologies that will foster resilience to climate change. The activity includes training farmers on nutrient management practices that will strengthen soil health and fertility in local agricultural production and increase crop diversity with nutritious and sustainable options.

In collaboration with the Guatemalan government, the United States, other international donors, and stakeholders, this activity will create and improve coordination among agriculture and food security sectors. The activity will contribute to efforts helping the 1.6 million people that are engaged and dependent on the agricultural sector as well as aims to impact 47% of children under five who are chronically malnourished.

Launched in February 2023 to address food insecurity initially in Africa, the Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) has grown into a global movement and expanded into the Western Hemisphere and Pacific Islands. VACS has generated global interest and commitment, including the VACS Partnership co-led by International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) and the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO). VACS has been embraced by the private sector and NGOs – recognized through the VACS Champions program. VACS is part of the U.S. government’s signature global hunger initiative Feed the Future.




Secretary Antony J. Blinken With George Stephanopoulos of ABC Good Morning America
09/25/2024

Secretary Antony J. Blinken With George Stephanopoulos of ABC Good Morning America
09/25/2024 09:33 AM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

New York City, New York
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Antony J. Blinken With George Stephanopoulos of ABC Good Morning America
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Secretary Antony J. Blinken With George Stephanopoulos of ABC Good Morning America


Interview





September 25, 2024



QUESTION: Okay. And thanks very much. Let’s take that question to Secretary of State Antony Blinken right now. He joins us live in the studio. Do you think this can be contained?


SECRETARY BLINKEN: I do, and it needs to be contained. We’re working to prevent escalation. We’re working to make sure this doesn’t get into a full-scale war. Look, Israel has a very legitimate problem it has to solve. Right after the horrific events of October 7th, Hizballah in the north, from Lebanon, starting lobbing rockets into Israel. People who lived in northern Israel had to flee their homes – homes were destroyed; villages were destroyed – about 70,000 Israelis. Israel started responding. You have Lebanese in southern Lebanon who’ve also had to flee their homes. We want to see people get back to their homes. The best way to do that is through a diplomatic agreement – pulls the forces back, creates space and security so that people can get back to their homes, kids can get back to school. That’s what we’re working on.


QUESTION: Do you have any objections to the way Israel is prosecuting the war right now?


SECRETARY BLINKEN: Look, you’ve got a group in Hizballah that’s a designated terrorist organization. Back in 2000, Israel got out of southern Lebanon, which it had been occupying. All of these groups, including Hizballah, were supposed to put down their weapons. Hizballah didn’t do it. It attacked Israel repeatedly in the ensuing years. It created insecurity in northern Israel. And then since October 7th it’s really ramped that up. So this is an important problem to solve, get people back to their homes. But the best way to do it, George, is through diplomacy. If there were a full-scale war – and we’ve managed to avert one until now. We’ve had a number of times since October 7th where we seemed to be on the verge of it. Deterrence, diplomacy by the United States prevented that from happening. But if there were to be a full-scale war, that wouldn’t solve the problem. It wouldn’t get people back to their homes.


QUESTION: Let’s talk about Ukraine and Russia right now. President Zelenskyy is going to be visiting the White House tomorrow, visiting President Biden tomorrow. He has what he’s calling a victory plan.


SECRETARY BLINKEN: Yeah.


QUESTION: He’s going to unfold that tomorrow, wants permission to strike deeper inside Russia. Will he get it?


SECRETARY BLINKEN: So I was in Kyiv a couple of weeks ago with President Zelenskyy. I heard parts of this plan, but he’s going to present the entire plan to President Biden when he sees him this week, and we’re awaiting that. Look, every step along the way since before the Russian invasion, we’ve tried to make sure that Ukraine had what it needed when it needed it to defend against Russian aggression. We got them Stingers, Javelins before the Russian aggression because we saw it coming. That prevented the takeover of the country, the erasing of Ukraine from the map. The Ukrainians were able to repel the Russians, push them back. Every day since, we’ve been working to adapt and adjust depending on the battlefield needs, what does Ukraine need in any given moment. We’ll continue to do that.


QUESTION: What about striking inside Russia?


SECRETARY BLINKEN: Look, we’re looking at how we can make sure that Ukraine is most effective in deterring and dealing with this Russian aggression. And they have extraordinary means at their disposal, starting with their own resilience. We’re going to make sure that they have what they need to succeed.


QUESTION: Yesterday former President Trump expressed serious doubts about Ukraine’s ability to win this war. He also praised Russia’s military saying they beat Hitler, they beat Napolean. Do you have doubts about Ukraine’s ability to win this war?


SECRETARY BLINKEN: No, I don’t, George. And in fact, to the contrary, remember what Putin tried to do. He tried to come in and erase Ukraine from the map. He’s failed in that. That is not going to succeed. The challenge now is to make sure that Ukraine can be a strong independent country that stands up militarily, economically, democratically. We’re working to ensure that, and not just us – more than 50 countries.


Look, and this matters. It matters to the United States. It’s not just about Ukraine. We’re here in New York for this UN General Assembly. The UN was created after two world wars to make sure there wouldn’t be another. And one of the things that it did was it got countries together and say – to say there are basic rules of the road. One country can’t simply attack another, redraw its borders by force, dictate to another country its future, its decisions.


That’s what’s going on in Ukraine. And if we allow that to happen with impunity, if we allow those basic principles, those basic rules to be violated, then its open season. Would-be aggressors everywhere will say hey, we can get away with it too. That’s a world full of conflict, not a good world for the United States. That’s why, with so many other countries, we’ve been working to help Ukraine not only defend itself but defend these principles that are at the heart of the international system.


QUESTION: Secretary Blinken, thanks, as always, for your time.


SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, George.



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Israel Lebanon Office of the Spokesperson Russia Secretary Trip The Secretary of State Ukraine


$920 Million U.S.-Romania Foreign Military Financing Direct Loan Strengthens NATO
09/25/2024


$920 Million U.S.-Romania Foreign Military Financing Direct Loan Strengthens NATO
09/25/2024 03:34 PM EDT



Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson

The United States announcing a new $920 million Foreign Military Financing (FMF) direct loan to Romania today.

Romania is a valued U.S. partner and Ally, and this significant loan agreement will further strengthen NATO’s Eastern Flank. Romania is undertaking a major military modernization program, including purchases of U.S. defense equipment such as Abrams main battle tanks and coproduction of ammunition. Romania is a leader in NATO, working closely with Allies to advance Black Sea security and providing critical assistance to Ukraine, including the transfer of a Patriot strategic air defense system and training Ukrainian F-16 pilots.

The U.S. government is providing $60 million in FMF grant funding for the cost of this loan, which will help accelerate Romania’s defense modernization by supporting urgent procurements of defense articles and services from the United States.

FMF direct loans are a security cooperation tool reserved for some of our most important partners. Loan proceeds will further advance Romania’s military modernization effort across a wide range of capabilities, substantially contributing to strengthening the defense and deterrence of NATO’s Eastern Flank. Today’s agreement further solidifies our unwavering commitment to enhancing NATO’s eastern flank.




United States Announces Significant New Military Assistance for Ukraine
09/25/2024


United States Announces Significant New Military Assistance for Ukraine
09/25/2024 05:41 PM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…United States Announces Significant New Military Assistance for Ukraine
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United States Announces Significant New Military Assistance for Ukraine


Press Statement





September 25, 2024



The United States is providing another significant package of urgently needed weapons and equipment to our Ukrainian partners as they defend against Russia’s ongoing attacks.


This additional assistance, provided under Presidential Drawdown Authority from Department of Defense stocks is valued at $375 million. It includes additional munitions and support for HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System); 155mm and 105mm artillery ammunition; cluster munitions; armored, Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) and light tactical vehicles; patrol boats; small arms; and anti-armor capabilities, including, Javelin missiles, TOW (Tube-launched, Optically-tracked, Wire-guided) missiles, and AT-4 (Anti-Tank) rockets; as well as spare parts, ancillary equipment, services, training, and transportation.


The United States is committed to Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s brutal aggression. We will deploy this new assistance as quickly as possible to help Ukraine protect its territory and its people. As President Biden has made clear, the United States and the international coalition we have assembled will continue to stand with Ukraine.



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Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Bureau of Political-Military Affairs Office of the Spokesperson Russia The Secretary of State Ukraine


Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program Offers for Two Russian Nationals and Sanctions on Illicit Russian Virtual Currency Exchanges and Cybercrime Facilitator
09/26/2024



Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program Offers for Two Russian Nationals and Sanctions on Illicit Russian Virtual Currency Exchanges and Cybercrime Facilitator
09/26/2024 11:00 AM EDT



Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson

The Department of State is announcing reward offers under the Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program of up to $10 million each for information leading to the arrests and/or convictions of Timur Shakhmametov and Sergey Ivanov for participating in, conspiring to participate in, and attempting to participate in transnational organized crime. Separate reward offers of up to $1 million each are also being offered for information leading to the identification of other leaders of the Joker’s Stash criminal marketplace (other than Shakhmametov), as well as the identification of other key leaders of the UAPS, PM2BTC, and PinPays transnational criminal groups (other than Ivanov).

Concurrently, the Department of the Treasury is sanctioning Ivanov and Russia-operating virtual currency exchange Cryptex, and issuing an order that identifies PM2BTC as being of “primary money laundering concern” in connection with Russian illicit finance. These actions are part of a coordinated international effort to disrupt Russian cybercrime services and are being taken in conjunction with actions by other U.S. government agencies and international law enforcement partners.

According to the U.S. Secret Service (USSS), Shakhmametov allegedly utilized the moniker “JokerStash” in his capacity as the creator/operator of Joker’s Stash, one of the most profitable online marketplaces for stolen credit card data and compromised personally identifiable information. Ivanov laundered the proceeds from Joker’s Stash. USSS alleges Ivanov to be a reliable, long-term provider of money laundering services for top tier cybercriminals since approximately 2005.

Today’s actions underscore the United States’s commitment, along with our allies and partners, to not allow cybercrime facilitators to operate with impunity. We will continue to use all our tools and authorities to deter and expose these money laundering networks and impose cost on the cyber criminals and support networks. We reiterate our call that Russia must take concrete steps to prevent cyber criminals from freely operating in its jurisdiction.

Today’s reward offer is authorized by the Secretary under the Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program, which supports law enforcement efforts to disrupt transnational crime globally and bring fugitives to justice. If you have information, please contact the USSS via email at MostWanted@usss.dhs.gov. If you are located outside of the United States, you may also visit the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. If you are in the United States, you can also contact the local USSS office in your city. The Department of the Treasury sanctions action today were taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13694, as amended by E.O. 13757, and E.O. 14024. For more information, see Treasury’s press release.

ALL IDENTITIES ARE KEPT STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL. Government officials and employees are not eligible for rewards.




Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Mirzoyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Bayramov
09/26/2024



Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Mirzoyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Bayramov
09/26/2024 02:16 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held a trilateral meeting with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov today in New York during the UN General Assembly High-Level Week. Secretary Blinken commended both ministers on the progress Armenia and Azerbaijan have made toward a durable and dignified peace and encouraged continued progress by both countries to finalize an agreement as soon as possible. The Secretary underscored that a peace agreement would bring increased stability and prosperity to the region.




United States Announces $5.55 Billion New Military Assistance for Ukraine
09/26/2024


United States Announces $5.55 Billion New Military Assistance for Ukraine
09/26/2024 03:52 PM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…United States Announces $5.55 Billion New Military Assistance for Ukraine
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United States Announces $5.55 Billion New Military Assistance for Ukraine


Press Statement





September 26, 2024



Today, as part of the surge of assistance that President Biden directed ahead of his meeting with President Zelenskyy, the Department notified Congress of the intent to direct the drawdown of up to approximately $5.55 billion in defense articles and services from DoD stocks for military assistance to Ukraine under Presidential Drawdown Authority.


This drawdown utilizes the remaining authority of the Presidential Drawdown Authority under section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance for fiscal year 2024 provided by the Ukraine Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024, which will expire on September 30, 2024. We are taking this step to ensure this Authority does not expire and the United States can fully utilize the funding appropriated by Congress.


By doing so, the United States will be able to continue to provide a surge in defense articles and services to Ukraine from DoD stocks under planned drawdowns in the weeks and months ahead. These drawdowns have been made possible by strong bipartisan support from Congress.


The United States is committed to supporting the Ukrainian military with the equipment they need to strengthen their position on the battlefield, defend their territory and people from the Kremlin’s brutal aggression, and prevail in this war to secure a just, lasting, and comprehensive peace. As President Biden has made clear, the United States and the international coalition we have assembled will continue to stand with Ukraine.



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Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Bureau of Political-Military Affairs Foreign Assistance Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State Ukraine


United States Announces New Support for Protection of Ukrainian Cultural Heritage
09/26/2024



United States Announces New Support for Protection of Ukrainian Cultural Heritage
09/26/2024 05:13 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…United States Announces New Support for Protection of Ukrainian Cultural Heritage
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United States Announces New Support for Protection of Ukrainian Cultural Heritage


Media Note





September 26, 2024



Today, on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly, Acting Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs Lee Satterfield joined Ukraine’s Prosecutor General, leaders from across Europe, and key stakeholders where she announced two new projects funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Ukraine Cultural Heritage Response Initiative and underscored continued U.S. support for the people of Ukraine and their efforts to protect and preserve Ukrainian culture.


First, in partnership with the University of Pennsylvania’s Cultural Heritage Center, the United States will help ensure Ukrainians have the data and skills they need to repair and restore damaged cultural heritage and to counter false narratives about Russia’s unprovoked war and Ukraine’s unique cultural identity. Second, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecutors from the U.S. Department of Justice will work with Ukraine’s Prosecutor General to strengthen Ukraine’s capabilities to investigate, prosecute, and trace looted, stolen, and trafficked cultural property from Ukraine and to prosecute those responsible.


Acting Under Secretary Satterfield also outlined the importance of the September 10 imposition of emergency import restrictions on certain categories of Ukrainian cultural property into the United States. These restrictions, which will remain in effect through March 2029, will discourage the illicit removal and sale of Ukraine’s cultural heritage and facilitate its seizure and rightful return, in coordination with the U.S. Departments of Justice and Homeland Security.


Last week ahead of the G7 Culture Ministerial in Naples, Italy, Acting Under Secretary Satterfield announced the contribution of $1 million to the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) for a project to help Ukraine safeguard cultural heritage at risk from conflict and other crises, including natural disasters.



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Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Cultural Objects Cultural Properties Office of the Spokesperson Public Diplomacy Sanctions UNGA 79 United Nations


Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan
09/27/2024



Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan
09/27/2024 08:43 AM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met yesterday with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. The Secretary and Foreign Minister discussed the importance of reducing tensions in the Middle East, including through an immediate 21 day ceasefire across the Israel-Lebanon border and a diplomatic resolution consistent with UNSC 1701. They also discussed ongoing diplomatic efforts to reach an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza that would secure the release of hostages, allow for a surge of humanitarian aid, and set the conditions for enduring peace. They further discussed a range of regional issues, including how to work together to enhance stability.




Joint Statement of the Minerals Security Partnership Principals’ Meeting 2024
09/27/2024



Joint Statement of the Minerals Security Partnership Principals’ Meeting 2024
09/27/2024 11:35 AM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Joint Statement of the Minerals Security Partnership Principals’ Meeting 2024
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Joint Statement of the Minerals Security Partnership Principals’ Meeting 2024


Media Note





September 27, 2024



The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the Republic of Korea and Australia, Canada, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the European Union following the conclusion of the Minerals Security Partnership’s Principals’ Meeting in New York.


Begin text:


Today, the partners of the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) held a Principals’ Meeting in New York during the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting focused on accelerating MSP projects, and enhancing cooperation between MSP Partners and MSP Forum Members. Republic of Korea Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul opened the Partners meeting, and Kang Insun, the 2nd Vice Foreign Minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, chaired the meeting.


The MSP Partners highlighted the announcement on September 23 of the creation of the MSP Finance Network, during a meeting of MSP Partners and their respective development finance institutions (DFIs) and export credit agencies (ECAs). This new network will further strengthen cooperation and promote information exchange and co-financing among participating institutions to advance diverse, secure, and sustainable supply chains for critical minerals. The private sector entities who also attended the MSP Finance meeting on September 23 collectively represent over $171 billion in funds raised, $34 trillion in assets under management, and $26 trillion in market capitalization. This impressive financial backing along with the billions of dollars available from the MSP public finance agencies underscore the immense potential for impact and collaboration.


The MSP Partners also welcomed the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, the Philippines, Serbia, Türkiye, and Zambia as new members of the MSP Forum in that group’s first in-person meeting, also on September 26. MSP Forum members used this event to discuss opportunities, priorities, and challenges in responsible mining, processing, and recycling of critical minerals, with participation from ministers and high-level officials from MSP Forum members.


The MSP chair appreciated that several achievements have been realized since the previous Principals’ Meeting in March, thanks to unwavering support from MSP Partners. There were 23 MSP projects announced in March, and that number has since increased to 32 projects. Currently, various critical minerals projects are under way around the world, including upstream mining and mineral extraction, processing and recycling and recovery.


During the meeting, MSP partners identified 7 projects as having reached key milestones, emphasizing that accelerating MSP projects is crucial for ensuring a stable global supply chain of critical minerals, which is essential for the development of advanced industries and the clean energy transition.
Across the 32 MSP projects:
19 projects focus on upstream mining and mineral extraction, 15 on midstream processing, and 3 on recycling and recovery.
10 projects include rare earth elements, 6 graphite, 6 cobalt, 3 nickel, 2 copper, 2 lithium, 1 high-purity aluminum, 2 gallium, 2 germanium, and 1 manganese. The Partners note that some projects produce more than one mineral type.
13 project sites are located in Africa, 8 project sites in the Americas, 6 project sites in the Asia-Pacific region, and 5 project sites in Europe.
The 7 projects which have reached key milestones since the last meeting in March are:
KoBold Metals’ Mingomba Copper Exploration Project (Zambia): At the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, KoBold and ZCCM-IH announced an initial $150 million investment in the Mingomba copper deposit located in Chililabombwe, Zambia into a world-class mine by using artificial intelligence (AI) to direct expedited mineral exploration in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province. In June 2024, KoBold Metals and ZCCM-IH announced an increased investment of more than $2 billion to develop the Mingomba project, which will play a key role to help Zambia increase its annual copper production to 3 million tons and help power the electrification of the global economy during the energy transition.
Gécamines-Umicore Germanium Project (DRC): In May of this year a new deal was finalized between STL, a subsidiary of La Générale des Carrières et des Mines (Gécamines) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Belgium’s Umicore, that advances cooperation on germanium offtake and processing. This milestone agreement, significantly increases the global supply of germanium, which is used in semiconductors, optical cables, solar cells, sensors for defense-related technologies, and more. The project also contributes to local economic development and skills training, and the development of recycling and recovery capacity in the DRC.
Mahenge Graphite Project (Tanzania): POSCO International, a major Korean trading firm, signed an agreement to purchase shares in Black Rock Mining Ltd. for $40 million to secure a supply of graphite from a Tanzanian mine. This investment brings POSCO Group’s total ownership in Black Rock Mining to 19.9%, and will pave the way for the development of the Mahenge graphite mine in Tanzania. POSCO Group expects to receive 30,000 tons of graphite annually from the deal, starting in 2026, and up to 60,000 tons by 2028.
Electra Ontario Cobalt Refinery (Canada): Canadian-based Electra Battery Materials received a U.S. $20 million award in August 2024 from the Defense Production Act Investments (DPAI) office of the U.S. Department of Defense. This award will support the construction and commissioning of North America’s first cobalt sulfate refinery, capable of producing battery grade materials for lithium-ion batteries, at Electra’s facility in Temiskaming Shores, Ontario, Canada. Once fully commissioned, the facility can produce 6,500 tons of cobalt per year, with cobalt feed sourced from Glencore and Eurasian Resources Group mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In addition to cobalt refining, Electra plans to produce other battery materials at the same refinery complex. In addition, in June 2024, Electra received a U.S. $3.6 (C$5) million award from Natural Resources Canada to advance the next phase of this battery materials recycling project.
ESS Inc. (United States): In June 2024, EXIM’s Board of Directors authorized $50 million in financing to ESS Inc. for its Wilsonville, Oregon facility, for the construction of several new long-duration iron flow battery storage production lines. The long-duration batteries are purpose-built for bulk storage by solar and wind renewable power providers. EXIM’s financing package consists of a final commitment to finance two production lines in the immediate term, plus a preliminary commitment to finance several additional production lines as ESS Inc. scales up its production capacity to meet customer demand, enabling the tripling of annual production capacity at their facility, to increase exports to Europe, Australia, and Africa. This authorization represents a contribution to the MSP and the global energy transition.
Australian Strategic Materials (ASM – Australia): In March 2024, EXIM issued a non-binding Letter of Interest to ASM to provide potential debt financing of up to $600 million for the construction of the company’s rare earths and critical minerals Dubbo Project in New South Wales, Australia.
Queensland Pacific Metals (QPM – Australia): In July 2024, the Australian Government awarded QPM an AUD8 million (USD5.4 million) grant to bolster domestic nickel and cobalt production at QPM’s Townsville Energy Chemicals Hub in Queensland, Australia. The Queensland State Government also announced up to AUD8 million (USD5.4 million) of funding to prepare the Project for investment readiness. Previously, QPM had received approximately AUD1.4 billion (USD900 million) in conditional debt commitments from financing agencies in Australia, Canada, and Germany.


Noting that concrete results are the MSP’s top priority, the Chair proposed to hold deep dive meetings for MSP projects as case studies in the near future.


MSP partners highlighted the MSP Principles for Responsible Critical Mineral Supply Chains and agreed that the implementation of high ESG and labor principles and practices is one of the primary goals pursued by the MSP. MSP projects are required to review and assess ESG performance regularly throughout their entire lifetimes.


The MSP is an action-oriented consultative body seeking the diversification of responsible critical minerals supply chains, beyond a multilateral dialogue. MSP partners promote policy engagement to elevate ESG and labor standards and expand investment opportunities in their mining industries.


MSP partners will continue to work with MSP Forum members to maximize the opportunities for synergies and to facilitate early achievements from MSP projects.


The MSP aims to continue seeking stabilization and diversification of global supply chains of critical minerals, to facilitate the development of advanced industries and the transition to clean energy.


End text.


For more information on the MSP, go to https://www.state.gov/minerals-security-partnership/. To stay up to date, follow Under Secretary Fernandez on X: @State_E, LinkedIn: @State-E, and Facebook:  @StateDeptE. For media inquiries, please contact E_Communications@state.gov.



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Australia Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs Canada Climate and Environment Democratic Republic of the Congo Dominican Republic Ecuador Energy Energy Estonia Finland France Germany India Japan Norway Office of the Spokesperson Philippines Serbia South Korea Supply Chains Sweden Tanzania Turkey Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment UNGA 79 United Kingdom Zambia


Joint Statement on the High-Level Minerals Security Partnership Forum Event in New York City
09/27/2024


Joint Statement on the High-Level Minerals Security Partnership Forum Event in New York City
09/27/2024 11:37 AM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

The text of the following statement was released by the Government of the United States of America and the European Commission.

Begin text:

The United States and the European Commission hosted Minerals Security Partnership (MSP) Forum members today in New York City on the margins of the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week and Climate Week NYC to discuss opportunities, priorities, and challenges in responsible mining, processing, and recycling of critical minerals needed for the energy transition. The meeting was Co-Chaired by Jose W. Fernandez, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, and Maive Rute, European Commission Deputy Director General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship, and SMEs, with participation from ministers and high-level officials from MSP Forum members. The MSP Forum followed a meeting of the MSP Partners, chaired by the Republic of Korea’s 2nd Vice Foreign Minister Kang Insun.

During today’s event in New York City, the MSP Forum welcomed seven new members – the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, the Philippines, Serbia, Türkiye, and Zambia – and discussed a number of relevant policy issues and specific critical minerals projects and how MSP Partners can assist in advancing them to production. These seven additional MSP Forum members join Argentina, Greenland, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Namibia, Peru, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan, who were announced as Forum members at the inaugural high-level MSP Forum event held virtually in July 2024.

The new MSP Forum members shared their priorities on the development of their critical mineral sectors, including on project development, environmental, labor, social, and governance aspects of mining, and policies related to supporting investments contributing to local value addition. Participants also discussed a roadmap for the MSP Forum’s two workstreams on project development and policy dialogue. MSP Forum members will continue to work together to develop individual projects and promote a dialogue on policies that contribute to diversification and resilience of critical minerals supply chains.

The United States and the European Union look forward to hosting MSP Forum members for the next MSP Forum event on the margins of Raw Materials Week in Brussels in December 2024.

End text.

For more information on the MSP, go to https://www.state.gov/minerals-security-partnership/. To stay up to date, follow Under Secretary Fernandez on X: @State_E, LinkedIn: @State-E, and Facebook: @StateDeptE. For media inquiries, please contact E_Communications@state.gov.





Digital Press Briefing with Vice Admiral Andrew J. Tiongson, U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander
09/27/2024

Digital Press Briefing with Vice Admiral Andrew J. Tiongson, U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander
09/27/2024 11:56 AM EDT



Asia Pacific Media Hub

MODERATOR: Greetings from the U.S. Department of State’s Asia Pacific Media Hub. I would like to welcome journalists to today’s on-the-record briefing with Vice Admiral Andrew J. Tiongson, U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander. Vice Admiral Tiongson will discuss the Coast Guard’s Pacific area campaign plan and his vision for the future of the U.S. Coast Guard’s presence throughout the Indo-Pacific and Oceania regions. He will discuss how the U.S. Coast Guard is a trusted partner in the region, as seen through joint search and rescue exercises, partner capacity-building events, and subject matter expertise engagements between likeminded nations.

With that, let’s get started. Vice Admiral Tiongson, I’ll turn it over to you for your opening remarks.

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Excellent. Thank you, Natalie, and thank you for the opportunity to be with everybody here this afternoon. I’m thrilled. I’m thrilled to be here in Japan with you today and look forward to responding to your questions regarding the United States Coast Guard’s efforts with partner nations throughout the Pacific. As mentioned, I am the commander of the U.S. Coast Guard Pacific area, and I’m responsible for all of U.S. Coast Guard operations in the Pacific, to include search and rescue coordination, maritime law enforcement and security operations, all in support of international agreements and a rules-based order; responsible for the efforts to strengthen partner resiliency and capacity, as well as humanitarian relief and disaster response.

That’s a lot. That’s a lot that’s out there. So, the area of responsibility is 74 million square miles of ocean with over 70 nations. As I describe it to people, I describe it as from polar bears to penguins, from Hollywood to Bollywood, and a little bit more. So again, a vast area of responsibility.

The United States and many Pacific nations share a great deal of history, and simply deeply shared or deeply held values, and certainly common strategic interests. Most notably, I’ll say in my line of work, a free, open, connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient maritime domain – one that’s grounded in international order through the rule of law. We truly appreciate the collaboration with our partners as we jointly work to promote a rules-based international maritime order.

Effective maritime governance counters the malign behavior that threatens that order by eroding regional sovereignty and prosperity. But to achieve this requires resources, mutual effort among nations, and certainly commitment over a long period of time.

So, we work with likeminded nations to bolster regional stability by building mutual capacity and interoperability and executing integrated operations with meaningful human interactions. So, I’m sure that many of you out there are familiar with the president’s – our U.S. President’s National Security Strategy, our Indo-Pacific Strategy, the latest Quad outcomes. Oh, here it is. It’s the United States Coast Guard’s unique blend of humanitarian, law enforcement, and military authorities and capabilities that we bring to bear that allow us to have all of these types of partnerships that I was just mentioning.

Coast Guard’s operating within an internationally accepted rules-based order serves as a non-escalatory resource that helps nations enforce laws, support regional objectives, and protect sovereignty. And all of that, in my mind, leads to the well-being of their people and their economy.

We in the United States Coast Guard, we seek to be a trusted partner in the region. We seek to meet our partners where they are, with what they need, always seeing the threats and challenges through their eyes.

Our efforts alongside our partners strengthens the safety and security of many countries. It fosters a committed, durable network of partners with shared principles, and certainly a commitment to strong maritime governance and unrestricted lawful access to the maritime commons.

Folks, I’m very sincere about our mission. I’m very committed to it. And I am eager to hear your questions. So, I’m going to end there with that quick introduction, and Natalie, if we can, let’s open it to questions.

MODERATOR: Great. Okay. Let’s see. And we’re going to go with a question that we received in advance, and this comes from Gabriel Dominguez, The Japan Times, based in Tokyo. “Could you please tell us more about the recently announced Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission? Are these missions expected to take place in disputed parts of the East and South China seas where there is an illegal presence of Chinese fishing boats?”

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Hey, thank you for your question, and I’m glad – it’s very timely as well. So, what you are referring to is those outcomes that just happened from the Quad summit with obviously Australia, India, Japan, and the United States and that announcement that came out there concerning the Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission that would happen. I’ll tell you first that we have been working very closely and have had observers from both the countries of Australia, Japan, or for that matter even India that have been on board our national security cutters and other cutters that we have within our inventory. We just haven’t been all four of us together on the same cutter, and sometimes we have multiple nations on board a cutter as an observer, and it’s a great opportunity.

It’s a great opportunity to share insights about how each one of us does our business in terms of maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, maritime security – all of those types of operations that we conduct. And we have gotten a lot out of it as part of the U.S. Coast Guard, have learned a lot, and hopefully we’ve been able to share a lot. But now, as a result of the joint statement from the Quad, we’re going to move to try to get all of these nations together at the same time to do things.

That being said, we will operate in the – I’m going to say the West Philippine Sea. And then we will work very closely with those nations to ensure that we’re operating in the correct place, the correct time, and actually exercising the correct things. As I mentioned earlier, we always seek to meet our partners where they are, what they need, and always seeing the threats and challenges through their eyes. So it does involve us in the planning stage to still engage with our partners, figure out the exact locations that we’ll conduct these operations as mentioned by the Quad – this at-sea ship observer mission – and hopefully we can do that and improve our interoperability as services together.

So, no specifics on that just yet, but open to a lot of input from our partners as we do this together.

MODERATOR: Thank you, Vice Admiral. Our next question will go to Christopher Woody. You had your hand raised. You can unmute yourself, please, and ask your question.

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: I can’t hear him.

QUESTION: Hi, Admiral. Can you —

MODERATOR: Chris – there you are. Yes, we can hear you.

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Hi, Chris.

QUESTION: Sorry about that. Hi, Admiral. Thanks for your time today. I had a question about the North Pacific and activity around Alaska. So, it seems like over the last two or so years there’s been a sustained increase in encounters with Russian ships and aircraft, and more recently an uptick in run-ins with Chinese forces in that area. I wanted to ask if you think the current level of military activity we’re seeing up there is likely to be the norm going forward, and if so, how is the Coast Guard working on its own and with its partners to adapt to that change?

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Yeah, that’s a great – that’s a great question, Chris. And I guess what we didn’t mention earlier is I’ve been in my current position for about two years and a couple months and change, and what you just described in the question is exactly what I have seen over time. I do see – well, first, I think it’s important to note, and everybody online who’s familiar with the North Pacific realizes that we share a maritime boundary line that divides us and Russia, right?

So Russian naval vessels, certainly we’ve seen an uptick in their presence in that particular region. And then what we also see is an uptick of PLAN, the PRC navy, and the Russian navy working together in that region. And we have been seeing that over this last couple of years. And they’re conducting operations, and what we have in terms of our mission set is we want to ensure the safety of our sovereign rights for – not only for things that are under the sea, i.e. fish and potential drilling and things like that, but also our fishermen and our mariners that are out and around near that maritime boundary line.

And occasionally what we have is we see some of those vessels that I described earlier that come into our portion of the maritime boundary. And can they do that? The answer is yes. It’s still international waters. But it is part of our exclusive economic zone, so we have sovereignty there. We want to ensure that our sovereignty is not being violated and nothing adverse is happening to those Americans that are conducting maritime fisheries and things like that in that region.

So, what we do is we meet presence with presence. So when they go out there, we ensure that they know we’re there. We establish communications. We – sometimes they tell us that they’re just transiting through and they’ll be out of our EEZ very soon, and other times we sit and we watch and shadow them as they go forward.

So that’s where we are right now with that. Do we work with our partners on that? Yes. We’ve talked to Canada about this. We talk to our DOD partners immensely about this, because obviously they’re interested in seeing what’s going on, and they’re interested to see what we see and what, if anything, we can tell them about our encounters.

But in general, I’ll tell you that all of our encounters to date have been very professional and have been in accordance with what we would think of in terms of professional behaviors of maritime organizations. So that’s where we are with that, Chris, and I hope I answered your question.

MODERATOR: Thank you, Vice Admiral. Our next question comes from Nirmal Ghosh from the Straits Times, based in Singapore. “Are there any discussions underway on prospects for U.S. Coast Guard vessels to join or escort Philippine Coast Guard vessels in resupply missions to the Sierra Madre at the Second Thomas Shoal?”

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Well, thank you. Thank you for that question. I appreciate that, and I think all of us understand what is happening in and around the Second Thomas Shoal region.

Have we been – have we been asked to provide escort? I am a friend of Admiral Gavan, the Philippine Coast Guard’s commandant. He has not asked me specifically to escort his vessels. He believes that he has that and has worked very hard to ensure that as of late, successful logistics resupplies have occurred. And he thinks that they have a plan that works forward.

What we do do, interestingly enough, is we do advise and we do assist. So when I say advise and assist, we provide to the Philippine Coast Guard and to others what we would do in this situation. And we assist them with coming up with some of their plans, but we do not accompany, which I think is what you’re getting after, in terms of an escort. So we do not do that, but right now we are advising and assisting, and certainly the Philippine Government, according to Admiral Gavan, they have this mission and they want to continue to have this mission moving forward.

So, that being said, that’s where we are with what we do on Second Thomas Shoal. Thank you.

MODERATOR: The next question comes from Jake Wise with The Fiji Times. “The drug trade in Fiji is escalating, with local authorities indicating that the influx is originating from outer islands via maritime routes. I wanted to ask if there are plans for joint operations between the U.S. Coast Guard and Fiji’s law enforcement agencies to tackle this maritime drug trafficking?”

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: That is a great question. And we do see different forms of drug trafficking that is happening through the Pacific and the Blue Pacific. And what we tend to do is we tend to work with our partners that want to try to get after these threats and challenges posed by transnational criminal organizations, and we do that in terms of our operations and/or ship-board bilateral agreements that we have with some nations.

In addition to that, when we hear about these types of things, we work very closely with our partners. So, for example, if it – it was in Fiji, we would work with the Joint Interagency Task Force West to see what they’re doing in terms of capacity building and knowledge or information sharing with the nation, and to see if we can build upon that. As DOD – the JIATF West folks – do things, we don’t want to replicate but what we want to do is build; we want to synchronize first and then build upon those types of things.

I have not been asked specifically about doing these types of operations off of Fiji, but certainly transnational criminal organizations are those organizations that are out there that undermine the rule of law and they add to the instability of the region.

So, are we against those types of activities? The answer is yes. Thank you.

MODERATOR: Okay, we’re going to stay in the Pacific and go with a question from Nestor Licanto, the Pacific Daily News based in Guam. “How would you describe the Coast Guard’s role in Guam, and has it changed with the U.S. military buildup on the island?”

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Wow, Guam. That is an awesome, awesome question, and it gives me an opportunity jus to talk a little bit, because as you can imagine, I talk to a lot of different groups during all of my travels. And what people tend to forget is that the United States of America actually reaches across the Pacific pretty far. And what I mean by that is all of our territories that go across areas like the Blue Pacific and places to include Guam, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, just to name three. And then certainly there are those Compact or Free Association States which we have security agreements with, like the Federal States of Micronesia, the Republic of Palau and Republic of Marshall Islands.

And if you put that all together, you actually see that the United States of America with our security interests and the pacts that we have written and our exclusive economic zones from our territories spreads pretty far across the Pacific.

Anyways, I use it as an opportunity to say we have plenty of business, United States Coast Guard business, to do out of the central hub that we have called Forces Micronesia or Sector or U.S. Coast Guard Sector Guam, right there. And interesting to ask a question about the buildup. So, I had just recently went to Guam. I talked to everybody in Guam because, yes, we are also increasing our footprint in Guam.

So, right now we have three fast response cutters there, 150-foot ships in length that are led essentially by a lieutenant in the Coast Guard. We are doubling that force. And we are already – we’ve already done that through the help of the administration – well, first our department, the administration, and then our United States Congress, as we have been appropriated to purchase those new fast response cutters. So right there you see that our footprint is going to increase because the Coast Guard’s business in that region is still there, and if not increasing.

So, are there any changes? That pretty much explains the type of change. We’re growing out there.

In addition to that, in that region we also, from the help of the Department of Homeland Security, the administration, and our U.S. Congress, received what we call an Indo-Pacific support cutter called the Harriet Lane. So, it was a Coast Guard cutter. It’s been refurbished. It was stationed on the East Coast of the Continental United States. It is now stationed in Hawaii, and it patrols within that region, going to different countries to practice or do subject matter expert changes, as well as IUU fishing.

So yes, this is a great time to be in and around Guam and to see our commitment to those Pacific Island nations. So, thank you for that question.

MODERATOR: The next question goes to Ben Blanchard from Reuters, based in Taipei. Ben, I see that your hand is raised. Please go ahead and unmute and you can ask your question.

QUESTION: Hi, thank you. The Chinese Coast Guard has been very active and aggressive in the Pacific in recent years, especially around Taiwan and in the South China Sea, and they have more recently been holding drills with China up near – sorry, with Russia up near Vladivostok. I mean, how concerned are you about this aggressiveness from China’s coast guard? And have you encountered any such behavior with the Chinese Coast Guard or indeed the Chinese Navy at sea of late? Thank you.

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Thank you for the question. I think I answered the question about the PLAN when I was answering the question on the Northern Pacific. We have experienced professional maritime behaviors in our dealings with them. I would offer also that in some cases we have been shadowed by the PRC Coast Guard, and again, we have had professional maritime behaviors and witnessed those things.

So, we have not seen that type of aggressiveness towards United States Coast Guard cutters, and I don’t expect that to happen. But I have been watching very closely to what’s happening everywhere else, and certainly we’ve already talked about the Second Thomas Shoal, Sabina Shoal; we haven’t yet, but we do see that ratcheting up more and more over at least the two years that I have been in my current position. And we’re watching that very closely and, again, working with our partners on tactics, techniques, and procedures to help in those types of situations.

Again, I see our coast guards as – coast guards, with an S – as a non-escalatory type of force to get after maritime governance at its best. And the more that we can continue to be non-escalatory in nature and to keep things at a level that is not going to trigger other types of results is the best for all of us. And that’s where we are right now.

I think I’ll leave that question right there and see if you have a follow-on.

MODERATOR: Okay. With that, I think we’ll go to Mike Cherney from The Wall Street Journal, based in Sydney, Australia. Mike, I see your hand is raised. Please unmute and ask your question.

QUESTION: Hi, everyone. Can you guys hear me?

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Mike, that —

MODERATOR: Yes.

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Yeah.

QUESTION: Great, great. Well, thanks for having a chat with us today. I’m going to throw three questions to you, Vice Admiral. One, I was wondering if you’ve seen any sort of change in behavior from any Chinese maritime assets operating in the Pacific, and if so, what those changes might be?

I was also wondering if you’re planning any expeditionary type of patrols with the FRCs in the coming year?

And also, if you guys had any specific plans for putting more assets or expanding the footprint in the region beyond what you’ve just discussed?

Thank you.

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Great, Mike. Thank you very much. I think the change in behavior, maritime behavior, of the PRC Coast Guard – I think we’ve already kind of addressed that. Certainly, when it comes to the Philippines and its sovereignty, we have seen a ratcheting up of things that are happening there, but ratcheting up to a level, so not going beyond a certain level that enables the Philippine Coast Guard and others in the Philippines to adjust as necessary to ensure that we do not overly escalate the situation that they’re involved in. Again, with our engagements or encounters with PRC Coast Guard patrolling vessels, we have seen nothing but professional behaviors at sea, and we hope to maintain that and actually continue that trend moving forward as we as we continue to operate within western Pacific region.

You asked the question about expeditionary patrols with the FRCs. Now, that’s an interesting question. I look at it in two different ways, and I think what you were alluding to is we’ve sent FRCS to places like Cairns, Australia in the past. But expeditionary patrols for those FRCs, they go out throughout the Blue Pacific. So, they’re always doing basically expeditionary patrols for us. Now, we’ve also sent one to the Philippines. Again, we sent one to Australia. Are we looking at doing those types of things? I think – well, the answer is yes, yes. I’m not going to get into specifics about when and where and all that, but the answer is yes.

Again, I always revert back to it because it’s important. We want to see – we want to meet our partners where they are with what they need. And a lot of these partners don’t have big – like our national security cutters. They don’t have big navy ships either. And they do have patrol vessels like a 154-foot fast response cutter. So, to meet them where they are with what they need, that 154-foot patrol cutter is a perfect platform to do that. It’s small, it is similar in nature, and it conducts all those types of missions that we’ve been talking about – search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, maritime security, HADR. It can do all of those types of things. So, it is important to meet our partners where they are with what they need, and many of them need those types of things to handle the issues that they face.

So, the answer is yes on those, and I would say we are conducting expeditionary missions with them as we speak, as they go throughout the Blue Pacific. So, to Australia, yes. To the Philippines, yes. Throughout the Blue Pacific, yes. I think I’ve answered that question in some detail.

You got me on another great topic, which is increasing assets. So, I mentioned the Harriet Lane, which is an Indo-Pacific support cutter that we have out of Hawaii right now. There is a potential that we may be, through the work of the administration and Congress, be given a second Indo-Pacific support cutter. The question becomes where do we look to locate that – so the word “base” is kind of an interesting word, right? The word “base,” people think large infrastructure. A lot of people – I mean, some folks think, well, piece of U.S. sovereignty. I could tell you from my perspective, we’re not necessarily looking for bases – we’re looking for places, places where we can conduct forward – forward operations that provides us a hub for logistics and things like that.

I would offer you that one of the things that I’m doing here in Japan is I looked at different places in Japan for that possibility. And certainly, there has been discussions in the past about Australia as a possibility to have a place – not a base, but a place – where we can conduct forward operations and routinely go in and out of for logistics and respite and those types of things. I’ve hope I’ve answered your three questions, Mike. Thank you for the questions.

MODERATOR: Okay, I – we are actually one minute over time, but before we close out, I wanted to give Ben Blanchard a chance to give us your follow-up question, if that’s okay with the vice admiral, and then we will – we will end it from there. So, Ben, go ahead and unmute.

QUESTION: Thank you. Can I just ask more specifically about Taiwan? Because Taiwan has complained repeatedly, certainly since the start of this year, about Chinese Coast Guard activities around the around the Kinmen Islands in the Taiwan Strait and off Taiwan’s east coast. That seems to be new behavior; it seems to be concerning behavior. What’s your take there on what China’s coast guard is trying to achieve when it comes to the waters around Taiwan? Thank you.

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Excellent question. We know what the situation is in which the PRC has already claimed whose waters that we’re talking about, who they – whose sovereign rights they are – again, not internationally accepted. The coast guards are organizations that practice and support the internationally accepted rules and norms. So that – that’s an interesting question, right? And as you know, we have our longstanding “one China” policy, right. So, we certainly support that cross-strait dialogue, and we expect cross-strait differences to be resolved by peaceful means, means that are free of coercion, in a manner that is acceptable to the people on both sides of the strait as we move forward. And that’s consistent with this longstanding “one China” policy that we’ve had, and that’s kind of the standpoint of what we see it as a Coast Guard who conforms, believes, and upholds those internationally accepted rules and norms.

Thank you for that question.

MODERATOR: Okay, and thank you, Vice Admiral Tiongson. If you have any brief closing remarks, now is your chance.

VICE ADMIRAL TIONGSON: Great. Thanks again for the opportunity to be here to talk to you and to share some things about our United States Coast Guard and what we are doing in the region to make it safer, more secure, and more prosperous and resilient. I think this is an interesting time and certainly one that is full of many challenges, and we’ve touched on some of those challenges here.

So, for example, in our Pacific area of responsibility, we mentioned these things and we talked about them – we have seven of the world’s ten largest militaries in this AOR. We have large and sophisticated transnational criminal organizations – like the question that came from Fiji. We have three of the five largest economies, eight of the top 10 U.S. trading partners and key – and it doesn’t come up a lot, but 60 percent of global maritime trade comes through this region, and then nine of the top 10 busiest seaports are in this region. We have a busy seaport that I have also on the West Coast of the United States in the AOR, which is LA/LB. That’s number 15 in the international ranking of those things.

But here’s something that a lot of folks tend to forget, and I tried to allude to this earlier, but 80 percent – 80 percent – of our – our – U.S. exclusive economic zone is in the Pacific. That’s big. That’s all of our U.S. sovereignty, and that’s why I gave that longwinded answer, I think, in terms of the question about Guam, and how it stretches out to all of our territories within that region.

Folks, this is a very important time and an inflection in the maritime space for all nations, and we should all work together in a very interoperable way to uphold governance, maritime governance. And when I say maritime governance, I’m talking about things like search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, maritime security, other things like marine environmental response – all of those types of things that we in the coast guards work together a lot to try to get better at and try to provide regional responses to those types of threats and challenges. It is needed.

And our U.S. Coast Guard is in a lot of demand because we have some level of expertise of which others want to learn from, and we want to learn from them as well. And we should continue to try to do that to make our world a safer place.

Folks, thank you for your interest. Thank you for your questions. I hope I’ve been able to answer most of those, and really appreciate the time that we’ve spent here. Natalie, thank you for this opportunity. Back to you.

MODERATOR: Thank you for – thank you, Vice Admiral Tiongson, for joining us, and thank you for your questions. We will provide a transcript of this briefing to participating journalists as soon as it is available. We’d also love to hear your feedback, and you can contact us at any time at AsiaPacMedia@state.gov. Thank you again for your participation, and we hope you can join us for another briefing soon.

# # #
The Week at State: September 20 - 26, 2024
09/27/2024








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September 20 - 26

Secretary Blinken traveled to New York City to participate in the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week.

It’s also World Tourism Day, and we’re reflecting on the power of sustainable tourism to foster peace and prosperity. By creating jobs, fostering inclusion, and strengthening local economies, sustainable tourism can transform communities. If you’re a U.S. citizen planning to travel abroad, don’t forget that you can now renew your passport online.

Here's what happened at State this past week. ⤵️✈️ Secretary Blinken participates in UNGA High-Level Week.
🇺🇸 President Biden hosted the Quad Leaders’ Summit.
🇺🇦 President Biden met with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy at the White House and announced assistance to help counter Russia’s aggression.


Secretary Blinken Visits New York City for UNGA79

While at UNGA, Secretary Blinken: Delivered remarks at the UN Summit of the Future urging support, reform and revitalization of the UN.
Joined the UN Security Council High-Level Briefing on Ukraine.
Participated in the Leaders’ Summit of the Global Coalition to Address Synthetic Drug Threats with President Biden.
Spoke at the Ministerial Meeting on the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection.
Delivered remarks at two AI events: Advancing Sustainable Development Through Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy AI and the Freedom Online Coalition Ministerial Event on AI for Humanity. Read about how the U.S. is helping the world use AI for good.

“As President Biden outlined at UNGA today, our task is to make sure the forces holding us together are stronger than those pulling us apart,” Secretary Blinken said on X/Twitter. “There is nothing beyond our capacity if we work together.”

Interested to learn how locals experience UNGA? Read The Good Beyond the Gridlock.








President Biden Hosts Leaders of the Quad

President Biden hosted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia, Prime Minister Kishida Fumio of Japan, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India in Wilmington, Delaware, for the fourth Quad Leaders’ Summit on September 21.

The Quad is leading ambitious projects to help partners address pandemics and disease, respond to natural disasters, strengthen maritime security, and mobilize and build digital infrastructure.

“While challenges will come and the world will change – the Quad is here to stay,” the President said on X/Twitter.


White House Commits Additional Support to Ukraine, President Zelenskyy

During a meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy at the White House, President Biden announced a surge in assistance to help Ukraine counter Russia’s aggression. Among the pledges, the U.S. will:Bolster Ukraine’s air defenses
Strengthen Ukraine’s air force
Counter Russia’s sanctions evasion and money laundering

Next month, President Biden will meet with leaders of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Germany.

“Through these actions, my message is clear: The United States will provide Ukraine with the support it needs to win this war,” President Biden said.


Secretary Blinken Discusses the Urgency of Humanitarian Needs in the 21st Century

Humanitarian needs worldwide continue to increase, and for the 12th consecutive year, the number of forcibly displaced people rose to 120 million people. Catastrophic hunger doubled during 2024.

“At UNGA, I convened leaders to discuss the steps we must take to strengthen the humanitarian system, including supporting host countries, development efforts, and new technology usage,” Secretary Blinken said on X/Twitter.

Since 2021, the U.S. has contributed more than $52 billion in vital aid for clean water, food, medicine, and shelter. The U.S. and the European Union co-hosted an event at UNGA where the U.S. joined the Humanitarian Aid Donors’ Declaration on Climate and Environment.


U.S. Pledges Humanitarian Aid to Rohingya Refugees

Nearly 750,000 Rohingya fled Burma following a horrific campaign of genocide and terror in 2017, a culmination of decades of restrictive policies and persecution.

In response, the U.S., during an UNGA side event, announced an additional $199 million in aid to Rohingya refugees and to the Bangladeshi communities hosting them.

“This assistance will save lives, helping to shelter and feed those who have fled violence and persecution with little more than the clothes on their backs,” said Uzra Zeya, Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights.


News You May Have MissedOn International Day of Sign Languages, we celebrated Deaf Diplomacy, an initiative to advance a more accessible, inclusive world. Learn how U.S. diplomats are connecting people across every language.
The U.S. sanctioned a former Haitian politician and a gang leader in connection with serious human rights abuse.
Special Representative for Global Partnerships Dorothy McAuliffe awarded the 2024 P3 Impact Award to The Challenge Initiative.
The U.S. committed $577 million through Feed the Future to promote food security and accelerate economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa.
USAID and UNICEF launched a global initiative to end childhood lead poisoning in low- and middle-income countries.






🔎 Looking AheadSeptember 27: World Tourism Day
September 29: New York Climate Week ends
October 2: Rosh Hashanah
October 4-10: World Space Week
October 11: International Day of the Girl Child
👉 Note to Our Readers

We welcome your feedback on this newsletter. Send us your thoughts to EmailTeam@state.gov. 📩












Useful linksTravel advisories and updates on international travel for U.S. Citizens from the Department of State
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Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Assistant Secretary Dafna Rand at the OSCE’s Warsaw Human Dimension Conference and the Warsaw Security Forum
09/29/2024



Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Assistant Secretary Dafna Rand at the OSCE’s Warsaw Human Dimension Conference and the Warsaw Security Forum
09/29/2024 04:59 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

On September 30, Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Dafna Rand will travel to Warsaw, Poland, to participate in Warsaw Human Dimension Conference (WHDC) and the Warsaw Security Forum (WSF). She will meet with senior officials, civil society, and human rights defenders and underscore the significance of promoting and protecting human rights in U.S. foreign policy.

Assistant Secretary Rand will deliver opening remarks at the WHDC hosted by the Chairmanship-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Her remarks will emphasize that respect for the dignity and rights of individuals within states is essential to security among states. Assistant Secretary Rand will also deliver the U.S. plenary statement on international human rights and international humanitarian law, in which she will underscore the United States’ commitment to accountability for the war crimes, crimes against humanity and other atrocities, including those that Russian forces and officials have committed in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

While in Warsaw, Assistant Secretary Rand will participate in a panel discussion at the WSF on the United States’ commitment to principled leadership in the world, where she will emphasize continued U.S. leadership as well as critical partnerships that advance shared values and interests, create a stalwart against rising authoritarianism, and promote a global future that is open, prosperous, and secure.

For further information, please follow the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor on X and Facebook at @StateDRL, or email DRLPressRequests@state.gov.


G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on Ukraine
09/30/2024



G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on Ukraine
09/30/2024 01:04 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on Ukraine
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G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on Ukraine


Media Note





September 30, 2024



The text of the following statement was released by the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union:


Begin Text


Joint As we mark two years since Russia’s illegal annexation of portions of Ukraine’s Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, we the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, stand firmly with Ukraine and its territorial integrity, sovereignty, independence.


We will never accept these or other violations of international law committed by Russia against Ukraine and its people and we will continue to condemn in the strongest possible terms Russia’s illegal aggression, its human rights violations and abuses in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine and the ongoing brutal attacks destroying civilian, critical and urban infrastructure.


We call on all members of the international community to do the same and to urge Russia, a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, to abide by the UN Charter and the basic principles that underpin the international order.


Our political, military, financial, economic and humanitarian support for Ukraine and its legitimate defense against Russia’s full-scale invasion remains steadfast, as is our commitment to raise the costs of Russia’s illegal war. Together, these measures will help set the proper conditions for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace rooted in the principles of the UN Charter. We will continue to engage the broader international community to that end, aiming to restore full respect for the rules-based international order.


This war of aggression can end now if Russia withdraws its forces immediately, completely, and unconditionally from all Ukrainian territory to its internationally recognized borders, withdraws its claims of annexation of the Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions, as well as the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol, and respects Ukraine’s sovereign rights as an independent nation.


End Text



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Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Office of the Spokesperson Russia Ukraine


Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide at the Signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation on High-Standard, Market-Oriented Trade of Critical Minerals
09/30/2024



Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide at the Signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation on High-Standard, Market-Oriented Trade of Critical Minerals
09/30/2024 04:22 PM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

Washington, D.C.

Colin L. Powell Treaty Room

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good afternoon, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be here with my friend Espen – friend, colleague – and also for me, for the United States, our partnership with Norway on so many things, especially in moments of challenge, is deeply appreciated, deeply meaningful.

As NATO founding members, our countries have an extraordinary history, a longstanding history, of working to address global challenges – not just the bilateral relationship, but between Norway and the United States, one that focuses on regional issues but also on global issues.

In April, we agreed to tackle one of the greatest threats to our national and economic security by working to secure our critical mineral and clean energy supply chains. And this is something that’s animated both of our countries for some time, and I think the work that we’ve done together reflects the intense importance that we attach to this.

Today’s signing of this Memorandum of Cooperation demonstrates a shared commitment to economic security in both a timely and tangible way. Developing secure, transparent critical mineral supply chains is essential if we’re going to achieve our global clean energy goals, but it’s also an essential aspect of our national security.

We have invested much toward this effort already. We’re already co-leaders of the Green Shipping Challenge. A substantial portion of Norway’s Government Pension Fund Global, the largest sovereign wealth fund in the world, is invested in U.S. renewable energy infrastructure. And Norway, of course, is also leading the way in decarbonizing even the most carbon-intensive industries, setting a remarkable example for so many around the world.

We also work together to accelerate investment in global supply chains alongside our 13 other partners in the Mineral Security Partnership, which, through the leadership of Under Secretary Fernandez, now consists of 32 projects around the world. Global demand for critical minerals, we know, is only going to increase. It’s going to expand dramatically as we build and deploy technologies that will drive the 21st century clean energy economy. No country, we know, can meet this demand alone. No country should control the world’s supply of these materials.

Alongside Espen, I’m very pleased to sign this Memorandum of Cooperation to further unlock the full potential of what our two countries can accomplish together and, as well, working with many others. This is a partnership that really is foundational to the future – the future of the 21st century economy, the future of clean energy, the future of national security.

So with that, Espen, the floor is yours.

MINISTER EIDE: Thank you, Secretary Blinken. Thank you, Tony, my good friend. I’m really thrilled to be here today and that we now can sign this Memorandum of Cooperation on critical minerals. Let me first say that I want to express my solidarity and give my condolences to the people that are affected by Hurricane Helene, which has been very devastating to many parts of this country and yet another example why we need to accelerate cooperation on climate change. And to work on decarbonization, climate change has been a very good experience over the – these years of the Biden administration. I very much appreciate the strong leadership that you have taken. And I’ve also had the opportunity to work very closely with you on those issues.

And out of that comes, of course, an interest in what do we need more of when we do less of the old. And as very correctly said, Tony, in the 21st century we will need critical minerals as raw materials for almost everything new, both how we produce clean energy but also how we use clean energy. And on top of that comes a significant change in geopolitical affairs, which is problematic but we – which we need to be honest about and relate to. And it is particularly important that close friends and allies also understand the geoeconomic, the economic consequences of these geopolitical complications, because we don’t want that any country have a total dominance of the sources of, for instance, critical minerals.

Norway is the number one exporter of cobalt to the U.S., the number three exporter of nickel. We are the largest producer of graphite in Europe. Our geology is full of these minerals, so it is for us important to establish these links, which I think brings us together economically but also secures a strategic partnership not only in – as ever in the military and political field, but also in the economic field. It will build security, resilience, reliability in the value chains, and it will make it more easy to work forward faster, both to be more sovereign and secure on – as Western countries together, but also to accelerate the green shift.

So many good things come together in what we are now going to sign, and I am very happy with the cooperation we had with you personally and people here that – and that we are now at the moment where we can sign this Memorandum of Cooperation.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. Now down to work.

MODERATOR: Blinken and Foreign Minster Eide are signing the Memorandum of Understanding Concerning Cooperation on High-Standard, Market-Oriented Trade of Critical Minerals. This MOU formalizes the intent to advance high labor and environmental standards in global critical mineral supply chains while maintaining and identifying appropriate responses to non-market policies and practices in third countries.

(The Memorandum of Cooperation was signed.)

(Applause.)

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you.

FOREIGN MINISTER EIDE: All right, thank you.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, everyone. Thanks for your great work on this. Thank you.




Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide at the Signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation on High-Standard, Market-Oriented Trade of Critical Minerals
09/30/2024



Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide at the Signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation on High-Standard, Market-Oriented Trade of Critical Minerals
09/30/2024 04:22 PM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

Washington, D.C.

Colin L. Powell Treaty Room

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good afternoon, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be here with my friend Espen – friend, colleague – and also for me, for the United States, our partnership with Norway on so many things, especially in moments of challenge, is deeply appreciated, deeply meaningful.

As NATO founding members, our countries have an extraordinary history, a longstanding history, of working to address global challenges – not just the bilateral relationship, but between Norway and the United States, one that focuses on regional issues but also on global issues.

In April, we agreed to tackle one of the greatest threats to our national and economic security by working to secure our critical mineral and clean energy supply chains. And this is something that’s animated both of our countries for some time, and I think the work that we’ve done together reflects the intense importance that we attach to this.

Today’s signing of this Memorandum of Cooperation demonstrates a shared commitment to economic security in both a timely and tangible way. Developing secure, transparent critical mineral supply chains is essential if we’re going to achieve our global clean energy goals, but it’s also an essential aspect of our national security.

We have invested much toward this effort already. We’re already co-leaders of the Green Shipping Challenge. A substantial portion of Norway’s Government Pension Fund Global, the largest sovereign wealth fund in the world, is invested in U.S. renewable energy infrastructure. And Norway, of course, is also leading the way in decarbonizing even the most carbon-intensive industries, setting a remarkable example for so many around the world.

We also work together to accelerate investment in global supply chains alongside our 13 other partners in the Mineral Security Partnership, which, through the leadership of Under Secretary Fernandez, now consists of 32 projects around the world. Global demand for critical minerals, we know, is only going to increase. It’s going to expand dramatically as we build and deploy technologies that will drive the 21st century clean energy economy. No country, we know, can meet this demand alone. No country should control the world’s supply of these materials.

Alongside Espen, I’m very pleased to sign this Memorandum of Cooperation to further unlock the full potential of what our two countries can accomplish together and, as well, working with many others. This is a partnership that really is foundational to the future – the future of the 21st century economy, the future of clean energy, the future of national security.

So with that, Espen, the floor is yours.

MINISTER EIDE: Thank you, Secretary Blinken. Thank you, Tony, my good friend. I’m really thrilled to be here today and that we now can sign this Memorandum of Cooperation on critical minerals. Let me first say that I want to express my solidarity and give my condolences to the people that are affected by Hurricane Helene, which has been very devastating to many parts of this country and yet another example why we need to accelerate cooperation on climate change. And to work on decarbonization, climate change has been a very good experience over the – these years of the Biden administration. I very much appreciate the strong leadership that you have taken. And I’ve also had the opportunity to work very closely with you on those issues.

And out of that comes, of course, an interest in what do we need more of when we do less of the old. And as very correctly said, Tony, in the 21st century we will need critical minerals as raw materials for almost everything new, both how we produce clean energy but also how we use clean energy. And on top of that comes a significant change in geopolitical affairs, which is problematic but we – which we need to be honest about and relate to. And it is particularly important that close friends and allies also understand the geoeconomic, the economic consequences of these geopolitical complications, because we don’t want that any country have a total dominance of the sources of, for instance, critical minerals.

Norway is the number one exporter of cobalt to the U.S., the number three exporter of nickel. We are the largest producer of graphite in Europe. Our geology is full of these minerals, so it is for us important to establish these links, which I think brings us together economically but also secures a strategic partnership not only in – as ever in the military and political field, but also in the economic field. It will build security, resilience, reliability in the value chains, and it will make it more easy to work forward faster, both to be more sovereign and secure on – as Western countries together, but also to accelerate the green shift.

So many good things come together in what we are now going to sign, and I am very happy with the cooperation we had with you personally and people here that – and that we are now at the moment where we can sign this Memorandum of Cooperation.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you. Now down to work.

MODERATOR: Blinken and Foreign Minster Eide are signing the Memorandum of Understanding Concerning Cooperation on High-Standard, Market-Oriented Trade of Critical Minerals. This MOU formalizes the intent to advance high labor and environmental standards in global critical mineral supply chains while maintaining and identifying appropriate responses to non-market policies and practices in third countries.

(The Memorandum of Cooperation was signed.)

(Applause.)

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thank you.

FOREIGN MINISTER EIDE: All right, thank you.

SECRETARY BLINKEN: Thanks, everyone. Thanks for your great work on this. Thank you.




Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Norwegian FM Eide
09/30/2024


Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Norwegian FM Eide
09/30/2024 07:11 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Norwegian FM Eide
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Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Norwegian FM Eide


Readout





September 30, 2024



The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:


Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide today in Washington and reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to further strengthen the U.S.-Norway relationship. The Secretary thanked Norway for its commitment to Ukraine, including its decision to donate six F-16 fighter jets and provide over $7 billion in long-term security and humanitarian assistance. The Secretary and Foreign Minister discussed concerns for the PRC’s support to the Russian defense industrial base. They also discussed the situation in the Middle East and underscored the importance of continued diplomatic efforts to bring stability to the region, including by reaching a ceasefire in Gaza that secures the release of all hostages. Secretary Blinken and Foreign Minister Eide also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to cooperate on critical mineral supply chains that safeguard labor and environmental standards globally.



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Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Hostage Recovery Humanitarian Aid Norway Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State


Assistant Secretary Stewart Travels to Poland
09/30/2024

Assistant Secretary Stewart Travels to Poland
09/30/2024 08:33 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Assistant Secretary Stewart Travels to Poland
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Assistant Secretary Stewart Travels to Poland


Media Note





September 30, 2024



Assistant Secretary for Arms Control, Deterrence, and Stability Mallory Stewart will travel to Warsaw, Poland from September 30-October 5. She will participate in the Warsaw Security Forum and the 19th NATO WMD Conference.


At the Warsaw Security Forum, Assistant Secretary Stewart will take part in a panel discussion on a “Global Perspective on Rules-Based International Order: Divided Into Camps” in order to highlight Russian behavior that undermines the rules-based international order.



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Arms Control Arms Control and Nonproliferation Bureau of Arms Control, Deterrence, and Stability Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs North Atlantic Treaty Organization Office of the Spokesperson Poland Travel


Secretary Blinken’s Call with UK Foreign Secretary Lammy
09/30/2024


Secretary Blinken’s Call with UK Foreign Secretary Lammy
09/30/2024 09:57 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Blinken’s Call with UK Foreign Secretary Lammy
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Secretary Blinken’s Call with UK Foreign Secretary Lammy


Readout





September 30, 2024



The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:


Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy today. They discussed the need to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and the importance of ongoing diplomatic efforts to establish stability. On Gaza, the Secretary and Foreign Secretary reaffirmed joint efforts to resolve the conflict by reaching a ceasefire and bringing the hostages home.



Tags
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Middle East Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State


Republic of Cyprus National Day
10/01/2024

Republic of Cyprus National Day
10/01/2024 12:02 AM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Republic of Cyprus National Day
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Republic of Cyprus National Day


Press Statement





October 1, 2024



On behalf of the people of the United States, I send our congratulations to the people of the Republic of Cyprus on the 64th anniversary of its independence.


The Republic of Cyprus and the United States are partners in pursuit of a more peaceful and prosperous world and share a commitment to democracy and freedom. We are deeply grateful for Cyprus’s contributions and continued efforts to strengthen the rule of law, its leadership on regional security issues, and its continued assistance in support of civilians in crisis. The bonds between our nations have never been stronger, and we look forward to continuing to deepen our bilateral relationship.


We remain fully committed to a Cypriot-led, UN-facilitated comprehensive settlement to reunify the island as a bizonal, bicommunal federation with political equality for all Cypriots. The United States remains your steadfast partner and believes in the resilience of the Cypriot people. I extend my warmest regards and best wishes to the Cypriot people, and I look forward to another year of collaboration between our nations.



Tags
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Cyprus Office of the Spokesperson


Taking Action with Partners to Combat Russia-Based Cybercriminal Group
10/01/2024


Taking Action with Partners to Combat Russia-Based Cybercriminal Group
10/01/2024 10:45 AM EDT



Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson

The United States is today taking additional action against affiliates of the Russia-based, U.S.-designated cybercrime group Evil Corp. The Department of the Treasury is designating seven individuals and two entities associated with the group. We are taking this action in coordination with the United Kingdom and Australia, who are concurrently designating select Evil Corp-affiliated individuals.

Additionally, the Department of Justice has unsealed an indictment charging one of the Evil Corp members for his use of BitPaymer ransomware targeting victims in the United States.

Today’s action coincides with the second day of the U.S.-hosted Counter Ransomware Initiative summit. The United States will continue to work with our allies and partners to counter the threats posed by ransomware actors. We will not waver in our commitment to safeguard our businesses and citizens from cybercriminal groups that seek to profit from the suffering of their victims.

Evil Corp is a Russia-based cybercriminal organization responsible for the development and distribution of the Dridex malware. Evil Corp has used the Dridex malware to infect computers and harvest login credentials from hundreds of banks and other financial institutions in over 40 countries, resulting in more than $100 million in theft losses and damage suffered by U.S. and international financial institutions and their customers. Treasury sanctioned Evil Corp, its leader/founder, Maksim Viktorovich Yakubets, and many of its members and facilitators in December 2019. Concurrently with Treasury’s December 2019 action, the Department of Justice indicted Maksim and Evil Corp administrator Igor Turashev, and the Department of State’s Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program issued a reward for information of up to $5 million leading to the capture and/or conviction of Maksim. Treasury sanctions today were taken pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 14024 and E.O. 13694, as amended by E.O. 13757. For more information, see Treasury’s press release.




Under Secretary Jenkins Travels to Poland
10/01/2024



Under Secretary Jenkins Travels to Poland
10/01/2024 12:34 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Jenkins will travel to Warsaw, Poland from October 2-5. She will participate in the 19th NATO Conference on Weapons of Mass Destruction Arms Control, Disarmament and Non-Proliferation.

While in Warsaw, the Under Secretary will reiterate the importance of utilizing all tools of arms control and risk reduction to address our current security environment and attend an arms control and deterrence side event hosted by the Polish Institute of International Affairs.




Sanctions on One Entity and Two Individuals Undermining Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank
10/01/2024


Sanctions on One Entity and Two Individuals Undermining Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank
10/01/2024 07:29 PM EDT



Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Sanctions on One Entity and Two Individuals Undermining Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank
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Sanctions on One Entity and Two Individuals Undermining Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank


Press Statement





October 1, 2024



The Department of State is today imposing sanctions on two Israeli individuals: a violent Israeli settler and the CEO and director of U.S.-designated Hashomer Yosh. The actions of these individuals have contributed to creating an environment where violence and instability thrive. Their actions, collectively and individually, undermine peace, security, and stability in the West Bank.


Concurrently, the Department of the Treasury is designating Hilltop Youth, a violent extremist group that has rampaged through Palestinian communities in the West Bank. It has carried out killings, mass arson, and other so-called “price tag” attacks to exact revenge and intimidate Palestinian civilians. Hilltop Youth has repeatedly clashed with the Israeli military when it tries to counter Hilltop Youth’s destructive activities.


We call on the Government of Israel to take action and hold violent actors, like those designated today, accountable. We will continue to use our tools to promote accountability for violence that threatens peace and stability in the region, no matter the national origin, ethnicity, race, or religion of the perpetrators of such violence.



Tags
Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Countering Violent Extremism Division for Counter Threat Finance and Sanctions Israel Office of the Spokesperson Palestinian Territories Sanctions


Sanctions on Two Individuals Undermining Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank
10/01/2024

Sanctions on Two Individuals Undermining Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank
10/01/2024 07:36 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Sanctions on Two Individuals Undermining Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank
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Sanctions on Two Individuals Undermining Peace, Security, and Stability in the West Bank


Fact Sheet





October 1, 2024



The Department of State is today imposing sanctions on two Israeli individuals. The actions of these individuals contribute to creating an environment where violence and instability thrive. Their actions, collectively and individually, undermine peace, security, and stability in the West Bank.


The Department is designating the following individuals pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 14115:
EITAN YARDENI (YARDENI) is a violent Israeli settler. In late 2023, YARDENI joined a group that invaded the Palestinian town of Khallet Al Dabaa, abducting a Palestinian man, ransacking houses, and stealing personal possessions. In April of 2020, YARDENI, armed with a handgun, joined a group of settlers that attacked two Palestinians herding sheep near Harruba in the South Hebron Hills. YARDENI is being designated pursuant to section 1(a)(i)(B)(1) of E.O. 14115 for being responsible for or complicit in, or for having directly or indirectly engaged or attempted to engage in planning, ordering, otherwise directing, or participating in an act of violence or threat of violence targeting civilians, affecting the West Bank.
AVICHAI SUISSA (SUISSA) is the CEO and a director of U.S.-designated HASHOMER YOSH. SUISSA is being designated pursuant to section 1(a)(ii)(B) of E.O. 14115 for being, or having been, a leader or official of HASHOMER YOSH, an entity previously designated pursuant to E.O. 14115.
Sanctions Implications


As a result of today’s action, and pursuant to E.O. 14115, all property and interests in property of the designated persons described above that are in the United States or in possession or control of U.S. persons are blocked and must be reported to the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Additionally, all individuals or entities that have ownership, either directly or indirectly, 50 percent or more by one or more blocked persons are also blocked. All transactions by U.S. persons or within (or transiting) the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons are prohibited unless authorized by a general or specific license issued by OFAC or exempt. These prohibitions include the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any blocked person and the receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person. Additionally, the entry of designated individuals into the United States is suspended pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 8693.


The power and integrity of U.S. sanctions derive not only from our ability to designate and add persons to the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List, but also from its willingness to remove persons from the SDN List consistent with the law. The ultimate goal of sanctions is not to punish, but to bring about a positive change in behavior. For information concerning the process for seeking removal from the SDN List, please refer to the State Department’s web page on how to petition for delisting, which describes the process and provides examples of situations that may result in delisting.



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Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs Division for Counter Threat Finance and Sanctions Israel Office of the Spokesperson Palestinian Territories Sanctions


Under Secretary Fernandez’s Travel to Atlanta
10/01/2024


Under Secretary Fernandez’s Travel to Atlanta
10/01/2024 09:26 PM EDT



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Under Secretary Fernandez’s Travel to Atlanta


Media Note





October 1, 2024



Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez will travel to Atlanta, Georgia October 1- 3, 2024, to participate in the 9th Annual U.S.-Republic of Korea (ROK) Senior Economic Dialogue (SED). This will be the first SED to be hosted in a city outside of the countries’ capitals and will highlight the more than $24 billion in ROK private sector investment in Georgia pledged over the past three years, including in metro Atlanta.


During his trip, Under Secretary Fernandez will give keynote remarks at the ROK-U.S. Joint Public Private Economic Forum, hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) on Georgia Institute of Technology’s campus. Following the forum, Under Secretary Fernandez and members of the Korean delegation will visit the university’s 3D Systems and Packaging Research Center to meet with student and faculty researchers. The delegation will also hear directly from Korean firm Absolics about its research partnership with Georgia Tech and investment in Covington, Georgia to develop substrates technology for use in semiconductor advanced packaging. Later, the Under Secretary will co-chair the 9th U.S.-ROK SED, underlining the strong bilateral trade and investment relationship with the Republic of Korea and continued cooperation in areas such as critical minerals, semiconductors, and energy security. Under Secretary Fernandez will participate in a bilateral dinner with his Korean counterpart to close the SED.


During his meetings, Under Secretary Fernandez will promote the strengthening of the U.S.-ROK alliance, emphasizing the importance of close cooperation on economic security, the clean energy transition, and climate finance. He’ll also highlight how the Biden-Harris Administration’s signature legislative achievements, including the Inflation Reduction Act and the CHIPS and Science Act, have catalyzed foreign direct investment in Georgia and the United States.


To join the CSIS forum in-person or watch the livestream, please register here. To request an interview with a keynote speaker following remarks, please send an email to Sam Cestari at: scestari@csis.org. To stay up to date, follow Under Secretary Fernandez on X: @State_E, LinkedIn: @State-E, and Facebook: @StateDeptE. For press inquiries, please contact: E_Communications@state.gov.



Tags
Energy Georgia Office of Public Liaison Office of the Spokesperson Official Domestic Travel South Korea Trade and Investment Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment


Secretary Blinken’s Call with Transatlantic Quint Foreign Ministers
10/02/2024

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Transatlantic Quint Foreign Ministers
10/02/2024 07:58 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with United Kingdom Foreign Secretary David Lammy, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot, and Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. They discussed Iran’s unprecedented attack on Israel and the importance of coordinating on a response. They also discussed the importance of implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 to establish a security perimeter in southern Lebanon, strengthen UNIFIL, and establish the conditions for both Israelis and Lebanese to be able to return to their homes. Additionally, they coordinated efforts to resolve the conflict in Gaza by reaching a ceasefire agreement that brings home the hostages while increasing humanitarian access.




Day of German Unity
10/03/2024


Day of German Unity
10/03/2024 12:01 AM EDT



Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

On behalf of the United States of America, it is my honor to congratulate the people of Germany as you celebrate 34 years of unity on this German Unity Day.

German reunification in 1990 is a testament to the courage and determination of the German people in overcoming division and oppression, symbolizing the struggle for democratic ideals and the enduring power of freedom. The fall of the Berlin Wall was not just about breaking down barriers; it was a triumph of democracy and of the human spirit that inspired the world.

The United States is grateful to have Germany as an indispensable ally and partner; our two nations are united by a shared commitment to defending the principles of freedom and national self-determination. We commend Germany for its steadfast commitment to NATO and its leadership and generosity in supporting Ukraine against the Kremlin’s brutal war of aggression. Additionally, our governments are collaborating closely to seek a resolution to the crisis in the Middle East that ensures peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. We are working together to strengthen economic security and resilience and confront global challenges, including our collaboration to address the climate crisis.

Today, we join you in celebrating German Unity Day and look forward to our continued partnership towards a free, secure, and prosperous world. Congratulations to the people of Germany on this special occasion!




U.S.-Mongolia Energy Dialogue Joint Statement
10/03/2024



U.S.-Mongolia Energy Dialogue Joint Statement
10/03/2024 10:08 AM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…U.S.-Mongolia Energy Dialogue Joint Statement
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U.S.-Mongolia Energy Dialogue Joint Statement


Media Note





October 3, 2024



The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Mongolia following the successful conclusion of the second U.S.-Mongolia Energy Dialogue.


Begin text:


Delegations from the United States and Mongolia met in Ulaanbaatar for the second U.S.-Mongolia Energy Dialogue on October 1, 2024. The Department of State’s Bureau of Energy Resources (ENR) Deputy Assistant Secretary Kimberly D. Harrington and State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Mongolia Munkhtushig Lkhanaajav led the delegations. From the U.S. side, representatives of the U.S. Agency for International Development and the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Mongolia attended the dialogue. From the Mongolian side, representatives of the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, and private entities attended. The two sides discussed ongoing bilateral cooperation in the areas of energy and critical minerals and explored opportunities for future collaboration.


The delegations discussed priorities for continued bilateral energy cooperation, including modernization of electric power transmission and distribution infrastructure; power market development; emerging policy and regulatory tools that will support the clean energy transition by stimulating private sector investment; advancing the development of critical minerals; and support for deepening women’s participation in the energy sector.


The United States and Mongolia highlighted the Mongolia Electricity Regulatory Partnership established three years ago in collaboration with ENR’s Power Sector Program (PSP) and the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners to strengthen the Mongolian Energy Regulatory Commission’s capacity to develop a stable, efficient, transparent, and competitive energy sector. They discussed the future of advanced clean energy technologies, as well as how best to leverage Mongolia’s vast solar and wind resources to support its energy security and the clean energy transition. Both nations reaffirmed their shared commitment to submitting ambitious 1.5c-aligned Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Global Methane Pledge.


The two sides also discussed priorities for continued cooperation on critical minerals following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on June 27, 2023, by U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez and Minister of Mining and Heavy Industry of Mongolia Ganbaatar Jambal. In the framework of the MOU, the parties discussed opportunities to encourage private sector investment and involvement and to strengthen Mongolia’s energy and mining regulations in line with strong environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles and Mongolia’s implementation of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Standard.


They further highlighted recent bilateral cooperation in Mongolia’s mineral resource sector supported by ENR’s Energy and Mineral Governance Program, including two workshops in Mongolia led by the U.S. Commercial Law Development Program focused on the use of leading legal and regulatory practices to promote responsible private sector investment in Mongolia’s mining sector. Mongolia and the United States discussed future cooperation to help the Mongolian government improve its mining investment competitiveness and attract responsible investment options.


End text.


For further media information, please contact ENR-PD-Clearances@state.gov



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Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs Bureau of Energy Resources Climate Change Energy Minerals Mongolia Office of the Spokesperson U.S. Agency for International Development


Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha
10/04/2024



Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha
10/04/2024 09:30 AM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson
HomeOffice of the SpokespersonPress Releases…Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha
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Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha


Readout





October 4, 2024



The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:


Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha to affirm the United States’ support for Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s aggression. The two discussed the commitment of U.S. and partner assistance to strengthen the resilience of Ukraine’s energy sector this winter and looked forward to the participation of President Biden and other leaders at the upcoming Ukraine Defense Contact Group meetings in Ramstein.



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Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Office of the Spokesperson The Secretary of State Ukraine


The Week at State: September 27 – October 3, 2024
10/04/2024








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September 27 – October 3

Today marks the start of World Space Week. Over 40 nations are signatories to the Artemis Accords, which guide civil space exploration.

Here's what happened at State this past week. ⤵️🤝 Secretary Blinken joined the D-ISIS Ministerial.
🔒 We convened partners to address the threat of ransomware attacks.
🦻 We announced that our Department Press Briefings will include American Sign Language interpretation.


American Citizens Should Leave Lebanon Immediately

We continue to advise that U.S. citizens depart Lebanon now, due to the unpredictable nature of the ongoing conflict between Hizballah and Israel and recent explosions throughout Lebanon, including Beirut.

We are working 24/7 to help provide U.S. citizens in Lebanon with as many options as possible to depart. Americans in Lebanon should fill out our intake form so we can ensure that they are aware of all their options.








Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS Responds to Evolving Challenges

Ten years ago, the United States mobilized the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS.

As ISIS aims to reconstitute itself in the Middle East and makes territorial gains in Asia and Africa, our coalition must remain clear-eyed about the evolving challenge that we face, Secretary Blinken said at the D-ISIS Ministerial.

Secretary Blinken announced that the United States will provide:$146 million to enhance civilian-led border security and counterterrorism operations across Sub-Saharan Africa and Central Asia.
$168 million to the coalition’s annual Stabilization Pledge Drive for Iraq and Syria.

“This is not the time to let up,” Secretary Blinken said. “It’s a moment to recommit to our common mission, to decisively defeat ISIS, and ensure greater security and stability for all of our people.”


Secretary Blinken Addresses Strategy of Renewal

Secretary Blinken outlined how America’s strategy of renewal has made us stronger and safer in his essay in Foreign Affairs.

“With a fierce competition underway to define a new age in international affairs, we have pursued a strategy of renewal under this Administration, pairing historic investments in competitiveness at home with an intensive diplomatic campaign to revitalize partnerships abroad,” Secretary Blinken said on X/Twitter.


Fourth International Counter Ransomware Initiative Summit

Ransomware is a global threat to security, to public safety, and to economic prosperity, and it requires a global response. At the start of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we convened partners at the Fourth International Counter Ransomware Initiative Summit.

The Counter Ransomware Initiative is the largest international cyber partnership, consisting of 68 members committed to building collective resilience to ransomware and disrupting the ransomware ecosystem.

“This Counter Ransomware Initiative – and everyone here today – reminds us that we are not powerless, we are not alone. And by continuing to work together, we can advance a digital future that upholds our values and makes life more secure, more prosperous, and more full of opportunity for everyone,” Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources Richard R. Verma said.


Our Department Press Briefings Now Offer American Sign Language Interpretation

On October 1, the first day of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we launched American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation for the Department’s Press Briefings. This is in addition to live captioning already included for Department Press Briefings.

“Today’s action underscores the Department’s commitment to inclusion and our acknowledgement that all individuals are integral to the fabric of our country and our workforce,” Spokesperson Matthew Miller said at the briefing.


Secretary Blinken Condemns Iran’s Attack Against Israel

Initial reports suggest that Israel, with the active support of the United States and other partners, defeated the direct attack that Iran launched against Israel on Tuesday, Secretary Blinken said before meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar.

“We have demonstrated, once again, our commitment to Israel’s defense,” Secretary Blinken said. “We’ll remain in very close touch with Israel and other partners in the region in the hours and days ahead.”

In a phone call with Transatlantic Quint allies, the Secretary and his counterparts discussed Iran’s unprecedented attack on Israel.

Iran’s attack included some 200 ballistic missiles and marked the second time in five months that it has attacked Israel.

“This is totally unacceptable and the entire world should condemn it,” Secretary Blinken said.


U.S., Allies Call for Democracy in Venezuela

Secretary Blinken addressed regional and international efforts to respond to the urgent situation in Venezuela following the July 28 election.

“The Maduro regime may try to obscure the results, but the Venezuelan people have spoken,” Secretary Blinken said. “Now, our job is to ensure their voices are heard.”

At the UN General Assembly, members of the European Union, the Organization of American States, and the U.S. issued a joint statement, calling for respect of democratic principles and human rights.

“We applaud the Venezuelan people for their participation in the July 28 presidential election despite significant challenges,” the nations said in the statement. “Over 12 million people went to the polls and exercised their right to vote.”


News You May Have MissedPresident Biden set the refugee admissions target to 125,000 for the next fiscal year.
The U.S. announced new support to protect Ukrainian cultural heritage, demonstrating continued support for the people of Ukraine.
We welcomed Mark Rutte as NATO’s next Secretary General and thanked outgoing Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg for his service.
The U.S. announced nearly $2.1 billion in humanitarian assistance at the 79th UN General Assembly for people impacted by crises.
The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation announced more than $1.8 billion in investments and new initiatives to address vaccine production and other challenges.
The Millennium Challenge Corporation provided a $480 million grant to improve affordable energy access in Sierra Leone.








🔎 Looking AheadOctober 4-10: World Space Week
October 6-11: ASEAN Leaders’ Summit
October 7: Anniversary of the Hamas-Led Attack on Israel
October 11: International Day of the Girl Child
October 13-14: World Health Summit in Berlin Begins
👉 Note to Our Readers

We welcome your feedback on this newsletter. Send us your thoughts to EmailTeam@state.gov. 📩












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Under Secretary Fernandez’s Travel to Portugal and Spain
10/05/2024


Under Secretary Fernandez’s Travel to Portugal and Spain
10/05/2024 02:46 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez will travel to Portugal and Spain from October 6-9 to engage key partners across Europe on critical minerals supply chains and promote trade and economic opportunities with the United States.

In Lisbon, Portugal, October 6-8, Under Secretary Fernandez will meet with officials from the Ministry of Economy and Ministry of the Presidency as well as representatives from the Portuguese and U.S. private sectors, including leading critical minerals, telecom, data center, and energy companies. He will reaffirm U.S. support for strengthening economic, critical minerals, and energy cooperation in Portugal and throughout Europe.

Under Secretary Fernandez will then visit Madrid, Spain, October 8-9, for meetings with the Office of the Presidency, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Ecological Transition, and private sector representatives, including leading Spanish green energy companies. Under Secretary Fernandez will discuss key regional economic opportunities, including in Latin America and the Caribbean, and fostering inclusive growth and competitiveness through the Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity. He will emphasize the importance of critical minerals to building reliable global supply chains and highlight quality and sustainable infrastructure through the Blue Dot Network.

To stay up to date, follow Under Secretary Fernandez on X: @State_E, LinkedIn: @State-E, and Facebook: @StateDeptE. For further media information and opportunities to join events that are open to press or scheduled roundtable interviews, please contact E_Communications@state.gov.




Secretary Blinken’s Call with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Barrot
10/05/2024



Secretary Blinken’s Call with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Barrot
10/05/2024 04:34 PM EDT



Office of the Spokesperson

The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller:

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot. The two discussed the evolving situation in the Middle East and the importance of coordinating efforts on a diplomatic resolution that would allow citizens of Israel and Lebanon to return to their homes. They also discussed joint efforts to increase humanitarian aid in Gaza and secure the release of hostages. The Secretary reiterated the United States condemnation in the strongest terms of Iran’s military attack against Israel on October 1.

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