Search Results:  Human Rights and Democracy Fund  (708)
  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States of America, I offer my sincere congratulations to the Namibian people as you celebrate 34 years of independence on March 21.

    The United States values the enduring partnership and friendship between our people, rooted in our mutual commitment to democratic principles, human rights, and good governance. Together, we are working to build a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous future for th

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Namibia , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    We extend our sincere congratulations to Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto on his victory and once again applaud the Indonesian people for their robust turnout and commitment to democracy and the rule of law.

    The United States and Indonesia are celebrating 75 years of our diplomatic relationship grounded in democracy and pluralism.  As close partners and friends under our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, we are working hand-in-hand to deli

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Indonesia , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Russia’s recent presidential election occurred in an environment of intense repression of independent voices and the imprisonment, death, or exile of virtually all genuine political opposition.  The Kremlin has systematically marginalized groups advocating for democratic processes and rule of law, including election monitors.  Russian authorities also denied anti-war candidates’ registration for the presidential election on spurious technical pretenses and did

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Seoul, Republic of Korea

    Shilla Hotel

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you, everyone.  Thank you, and good morning again.  Thank you.

    So I again want to thank President Yoon and Foreign Minister Cho for bringing us together to discuss what is one of the most transformational forces that’s shaping our future, our world, our democracies – and that is artificial intelligence.

    I think it’s hard to overstate the extent to which

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Chile, United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Energy, Global Health, Global Women's Issues, Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Francis on the eleventh anniversary of his election to the See of Rome.

    The United States and the Holy See are united by common values such as respect for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression, as well as dignity for all. We continue to work together to address the challenges of climate change, hum

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    The White House

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Morning, everyone, and welcome – welcome to the White House.

    To the First Lady, Dr. Biden, tha

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Afghanistan, Bangladesh , Japan , United States

    Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    The United States is today designating eleven Zimbabwean individuals and three entities, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa, under the Global Magnitsky sanctions program for their connection to corruption or serious human rights abuses.  These designations are part of a stronger, more targeted sanctions policy towards Zimbabwe the United States is implementing following President Biden’s approval of a new Executive Ord

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States , Zimbabwe

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    Thomas Jefferson Room

    SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good afternoon, everyone. It’s a great pleasure, Foreign Minister, to have you here. We were just together just a few days ago in Brazil on the margins of the G20, where we had a very good, productive trilateral meeting with our colleague from Japan. But it’s important and timely to have you here in Washington at the State Depart

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Brazil , Japan , Korea, North , Korea, South , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Benjamin Franklin Room

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you and good morning, everyone.  Alicia, Carlos Ramiro, colleagues – welcome.  It’s wonderful to have you here today.  We have the opportunity today to host two of our most important partners in the region, Mexico and Guatemala.  And I have to tell you how much we appreciate the cooperation and the collaboration that we’ve had starting, of course, with the López Obrador administration.  I had the o

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Guatemala , Mexico , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    Loy Henderson Auditorium

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good morning.  (Applause.)

    MS AMIRI:  Good morning, everyone.  It is my distinct honor to welcome you to the Alliance for Afghan Women’s Economic Resilience Summit.  Today marks 898 days since Afghan girls were banned from secondary school, 890 days since Afghan women were told to stay home from work.  As a woman, imagine being stripped of your

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Afghanistan, Albania , Indonesia , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    JW Marriott Hotel

    QUESTION:  Secretary Blinken, thank you so much for the interview.

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  It’s great to be with you.  Thank you.

    QUESTION:  Why don’t I start asking about a very important topic for both of our countries?  Democracy was one of the main topics between your meeting with President Lula.  And what do you think that the two countries can learn with each other in t

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Brazil , Russia , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States, I extend my warmest congratulations to the people of Estonia as they celebrate their National Day.

    Estonia’s unwavering commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law continues to inspire us all. As we mark this significant occasion, we commend Estonia for its leadership in fostering innovation, economic prosperity, and security on the regional and global stage. The enduring friendship between the United

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Estonia , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Tomorrow marks two years since Vladimir Putin launched his full-scale invasion of Ukraine.  After ten years of conflict, sovereign, democratic Ukraine remains courageous in the face of formidable odds.  The United States will continue to stand resolutely with the Ukrainian people in their defense of their homeland.  Putin’s war threatens not only Ukraine, but also the security of the United States, our NATO Allies, and the free and open international order we

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Countering Terrorism, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of The Gambia on the 59th anniversary of your independence.

    On this occasion, we reaffirm our enduring partnership and friendship with the people and government of The Gambia. I look forward to expanding our close partnership on a wide range of initiatives which aim to strengthen democracy, advance gender equality, promote human rights, support regiona

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Munich, Germany

    Bayerischer Hof

    MODERATOR:  (In progress) for Germany.  Welcome.  (Applause.)

    Antony Blinken, Secretary of State of the U.S.  (Applause.)  Nice to have you.

    And Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, Republic of India.  Minister.  (Applause.)

    I hope that based on the topic of the session that you will not all agree with each other and we can have some sparks.  We have about 43

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: China, India , Iran , Israel , Italy , Russia , South Africa , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Countering Terrorism, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people of Lithuania as you celebrate your independence.

    As President Biden said in his July 12 speech at Vilnius University, “Lithuania stands today as a stronghold of liberty and opportunity, a proud member of the European Union and NATO.”  This year, you will celebrate the 20th anniversary of your membership in both organizations, marking your important par

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Lithuania , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Bayerischer Hof Munich, Germany

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good afternoon.  We’ve heard the reports from Russia of Aleksey Navalny’s death in prison.  For more than a decade, Russian Government, Putin, have persecuted, poisoned, and imprisoned Aleksey Navalny, and now reports of his death.  First and foremost, if these reports are accurate, our hearts go out to his wife and to his family.  Beyond that, his death in a Russian prison and the fixation and fear of one man only underscores the weakness

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: India , Russia , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    President Biden issued two executive orders directing federal agencies to take comprehensive action to address barriers to opportunity for underserved communities and to embed equity into all aspects of federal decision-making. Over the past year, the Department has taken concrete steps to advance equity in foreign policy by refining tracking of foreign assistance programs to embed equity and inclusion into global programming,

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good afternoon, everyone.  Georgios, my friend, welcome.  It is always good to see you and always an important occasion to say we’re so grateful for the partnership between our countries.  Administrator Nelson, Bill, wonderful to have you here today.  Dr. Daglis, you as well.  Thank you to both of you for all that you do to further our understanding of space to the benefit of everyone here on Earth.<

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Cyprus , Greece , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Countering Terrorism, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs, Treaties and International Agreements

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, the United States stands in solidarity with survivors and global activists in calling for an end to female genital mutilation and cutting.

    Female genital mutilation and cutting, no matter the type, degree, severity or motivation, is a human rights abuse that harms girls and young women in the United States and around the world.  All women and girls deserve to live free from gender

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States

    Topics: Global Women's Issues, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    The State Department is implementing a new policy today that will allow the imposition of visa restrictions on individuals involved in the misuse of commercial spyware.

    This new policy is the most recent action in the United States’ comprehensive approach to countering the misuse of commercial spyware.  Previous actions have included the issuance of an 

    New Zealand National Day

    Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I send my best wishes to the people of Aotearoa New Zealand as you commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6.

    The United States recognizes the significance of this day and the ongoing dialogue it inspires. We reaffirm our shared commitment to diversity and building a more equitable future for all.<

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: New Zealand , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    I congratulate Nayib Bukele on his electoral victory as President of El Salvador.  The United States commends the work of electoral observers and looks forward to working with President-elect Bukele and Vice President-elect Felix Ulloa following their inauguration in June.  

    The United States values our strong relationship with the people of El Salvador, forged over

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: El Salvador , United Kingdom , United States , Western Hemisphere

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.  First, let me say what a pleasure it is as always to have Secretary General Stoltenberg here in Washington at the State Department.  Let me first note the drone attack yesterday by Iranian-backed militia on U.S. forces in Jordan.  It killed three of our soldiers, wounded many others. First and foremost, I’m thinking of those who lost the

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Canada , China, Egypt , Finland , Hungary , Iran , Iraq , Israel , Korea, North , Qatar , Russia , Sweden , Syria , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Countering Terrorism, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of India on India’s Republic Day. The Constitution of India continues to provide an enduring framework for the world’s largest democracy and a foundation for its global leadership.

    As President Biden has said, our relationship with India is one of the most consequential in the world. The past year has been marked by important milestones in our Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, including our cooperation throughout In

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: India , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the American people, I extend heartfelt best wishes to all Australians around the world for Australia Day, January 26.

    The U.S.-Australia relationship is based on an unbreakable foundation of common values, beliefs, and aspirations. We share a commitment to democracy, individual rights, and the rule of law. Our societies are enriched by the wisdom of our respective Fi

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Australia , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Davos, Switzerland

    World Economic Forum

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Gemeinde Davos, Switzerland

    QUESTION:  I want to thank the Secretary for joining us today.  It’s great to see you –

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good to see you, Andrew.

    QUESTION:  — here in Davos.  This is your first interview since a lot of things have

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: China, Iran , Israel , Russia , Taiwan , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs

  • The Secretary of State

    The United States congratulates Dr. Lai Ching-te on his victory in Taiwan’s presidential election. We also congratulate the Taiwan people for once again demonstrating the strength of their robust democratic system and electoral process.

    The United States is committed to maintaining cross-Strait peace and stability, and the peaceful resolution of differences, free from coercion and pressure. The partnership between the American people and the people on Taiwan, ro

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: China, Taiwan , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On International Migrants Day, we recognize the hundreds of millions of migrants living outside of their home countries.  It is imperative that countries expand lawful pathways, protect vulnerable migrants, promote inclusion, and advance policies and processes to promote safe, orderly, and humane migration.  The United States is committed to leading these efforts globally.

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • The Secretary of State

    We live by the principle that all persons are born free and equal with inherent human rights. This principle – a product of foresight and humility by those who came before us – was enshrined 75 years ago today by the UN General Assembly when it adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The UDHR, now endorsed by nearly every country in the world, enumerates the human rights that must be universally protected, and sets a common standard of liberty and dignity f

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    The United States is marking Human Rights Day and the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10th by taking actions to promote accountability for human rights abuses and violations.  Together, the Departments of State and the Treasury today have imposed visa restrictions and sanctions on 37 individuals in 13 countries.

    With today’s actions, the United States is addressing some of the most challenging and harmful forms

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Canada , China, Haiti , Sudan , Uganda , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Dean Acheson Auditorium

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.  It’s genuinely a pleasure to welcome Foreign Secretary Cameron here to the State Department, to Washington.  The infamous special relationship has never been more important than it is now, and I think that’s reflected in the conversations we’ve had.  Actually, we began on the phone almost immediately after your appointment, then we were in Brussels together jus

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: British Indian Ocean, China, Finland , France , Guyana , Iran , Israel , Mauritius , Qatar , Russia , Rwanda , Taiwan , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States , Venezuela , West Bank

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, The Ocean and Polar Affairs, Treaties and International Agreements

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    After Uganda’s flawed 2021 presidential elections, I announced a visa restriction policy targeting those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic process in Uganda.  At that time, I implored the Government of Uganda to significantly improve its record and hold accountable those responsible for flawed electoral processes, violence, and intimidation.

    The Secretary of State

    On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the United States reaffirms its commitment to working in partnership with the international community and doing our part to help reach the Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015. We underscore the value of inclusion of persons with disabilities as essential to the effective implementation of Agenda 2030.

    Around the world, the disability community accounts for 1.3 billion of the world’

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Skopje, North Macedonia

    FOREIGN MINISTER OSMANI:  Secretary Blinken, dear Tony, dear friends, colleagues, it is such an honor to have the opportunity to have you and to host you at the end of the day.  Thank you for visiting North Macedonia and thank you for participating at the OSCE Ministerial Council, which is in the run-up of North Macedonia’s chairpersonship of the OSCE this year that happened to take place in extraordinary times. 

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Malta , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Brussels, Belgium

    NATO Headquarters

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Hello, everyone.  It is always great to be with my friend, my colleague, Dmytro Kuleba, but especially good here at – to be here at NATO and sitting around the table together and making sure and making clear – as we heard from every single country around the NATO table – our enduring commitment to Ukraine, to making sure that Ukraine has what it needs to defend itself against Russian

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Brussels, Belgium

    NATO Headquarters

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good afternoon, everyone.

    In March of 2021, I came here to NATO to affirm President Biden’s commitment to rebuild, to revitalize, to re-energize our core alliances and partnerships.  Indeed, they’re our greatest strategic asset: an unmatched network of alliances and partnerships.

    And I did this at NATO because some back then were questioning its relevance, its capa

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: China, Egypt , Iran , Israel , Korea, North , Qatar , Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I send my best wishes to the government and people of Mauritania as you celebrate 63 years of independence.

    Mauritania has shown an active commitment to civilian-led, democratic government and is a strong regional security partner. The United States appreciates the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Mauritania , United States

    Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    The United States congratulates Argentine President-elect Javier Milei on his victory in today’s election, and we applaud the robust democratic process through which the Argentine public has spoken. The strong turnout and peaceful conduct of the vote are a testament to Argentina’s electoral and democratic institutions.

    We look forward to working with President-elect Milei and his government on shared priorities that benefit the people of both countries,

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Argentina, United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of Latvia as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of your independence.

    The strong, vital partnership between Latvia and the United States is rooted in a shared commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and mutual respect. Together we are committed to maintaining steadfast support for Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its unprovoked war. As NATO Allies, La

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Latvia , Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    San Francisco, California

    Moscone Center

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good afternoon, everyone.  Prime Minister, (inaudible) hospitality (inaudible) economic and security partner.  We’re also working very closely together here (inaudible) good week.  And day in day out, we are working to

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Guinea , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    San Francisco, California

    PBS NewsHour

    QUESTION:  Mr. Secretary, welcome back to the NewsHour.  Thanks for joining us.

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good to be with you. 

    Additional U.S. Military Assistance for Ukraine

Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

Today, the United States is announcing a new package of weapons and equipment to support the people of Ukraine as they defend their country and their freedom against Russia’s aggression.

This package provides up to $125 million of arms and equipment authorized under previously directed drawdowns for Ukraine, and is accompanied by an announcement from the Department of Defense’s Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative on strengthening Ukraine’s air defens

Roles: Everyone: All Users

Regions: Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate Antigua and Barbuda on the 42nd anniversary of your Independence Day.

    Our countries share a commitment to democracy and a desire to promote a safe, resilient, and prosperous Caribbean region.  Through the U.S.-Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, we have made great strides in combating drugs and weapons trafficking, and under the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    Treaty Room

     

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good morning.  It’s a great pleasure to welcome Chairperson Faki here to the State Department, to Washington, for what is now our ninth High-Level Dialogue between the African Union and the United States.  I think this reflects the vital and increasingly close partnership between the United States and the AU, and it also reflects the critical role that the AU plays not only reg

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Dr. Geeta Rao Gupta, Ambassador-at-Large Office of Global Women’s Issues

    Washington, D.C.

    Benjamin Franklin Room

    AMBASSADOR RAO GUPTA:  Good afternoon, and welcome to the Department of State.  My name is Geeta Rao Gupta and I serve as ambassador-at-large for global women’s issues here in the State Department.  It is my honor an

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Afghanistan, Colombia , Iran , Israel , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    I offer my sincere congratulations on behalf of the American people to the people of Türkiye as you mark the centenary of the founding of the Turkish Republic.

    Over these 100 years, we have seen Türkiye play an ever more important global role and the friendship between the people of our nations grow deeper and stronger. Our NATO Alliance is the foundation for regional peace and security, and we stand together in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and demo

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United Kingdom

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I offer my sincere congratulations to the people and government of the Czech Republic as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of the founding of a free and democratic Czechoslovakia.

    Our nations share a deep friendship and an abiding commitment to democracy and the rule of law. We stand united in our support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s war of aggression. The Czech Republic has demonstrated that commitmen

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Czech Republic , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA), we reaffirm the United States’ strong and enduring commitment to advancing religious freedom for everyone, everywhere.  This instrumental legislation provided a range of new tools to give voice to the persecuted, to empower advocates, and to promote religious freedom around the world.  Freedom of religion or belief is a bedrock American value.  Twenty-five years ago, when

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warmest wishes to the people of Kazakhstan as they celebrate Republic Day on October 25.

    As the people of Kazakhstan on this day commemorate their declaration of sovereignty, we reaffirm the United States’ commitment to Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We commend Kazakhstan’s steadfast leadership since independence in advancing global dialogue and ef

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Kazakhstan , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer my warm congratulations to the people of Zambia on your 59th Independence Day celebration.

    The United States remains committed to strengthening our partnership with Zambia, built on our shared commitment to democracy, inclusive economic growth, security cooperation, and health security. Today provides a joyous oc

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States , Zambia

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    Benjamin Franklin Room

    QUESTION:   We go now to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who is at the State Department.  Good morning to you, Mr. Secretary.

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good morning, Margaret.  Good to be with you.

    QUESTION:  Tension is very high in the region.  Are you changing your security posture?  Are you pulling any U.S. personnel out of the area?

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Marga

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Egypt , Gaza Strip , Iran , Israel , United Kingdom

    Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    The United States welcomes the signing of an electoral roadmap agreement between the Unitary Platform and representatives of Nicolas Maduro.  This is a concrete step toward resolution of Venezuela’s political, economic, and humanitarian crisis.

    Consistent with our longstanding commitment to provide U.S. sanctions relief in response to concrete steps toward competitive elections and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, the United States Dep

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United States , Venezuela

    Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to Equatorial Guinea in honor of the 55th anniversary of your independence on October 12.

    The United States values our relationship with Equatorial Guinea, and we remain committed in our partnership to combat trafficking in persons, develop the initiative on Atlantic Cooperation, and promote maritime security and economic growth. In the coming year, we look forward

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, The Ocean and Polar Affairs

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warmest congratulations to the people of Spain as you celebrate your National Day.

    Spain is a close ally and a friend with whom we tackle a vast number of urgent global issues. Our friendship is based on shared values and interests such as the fight against climate change, the defence of democracy, and a commitment to an international rules-based order.

    The United States is grateful for Spain’s

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Russia , Spain , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    The United States joins the global community in recognizing the International Day of the Girl and reaffirms our commitment to advancing the rights and empowerment of girls and young women in all their diversity.

    Around the world, girls disproportionately experience the negative impacts of climate-related disasters; conflicts and humanitarian crises; and have lost years of educatio

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Global Women's Issues, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    As Ukrainians wage a tough counteroffensive, and as winter fast approaches, it is imperative that we help them take advantage of every single day. Today, the United States is announcing a new package of military aid, including weapons and equipment to help Ukraine succeed on the battlefield and protect its people from Russia’s brutal invasion. Today’s announcement is an important signal of the United States’ continued commitmen

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Uganda on the 61st anniversary of Uganda’s independence. Over the last 61 years, the American and Ugandan people have partnered to advance health, regional security, economic investment, agriculture, and education. The United States continues to support Ugandans in the pursuit of democracy, respect for human rights, peace, and prosperity for all.

    Secretary Antony J. Blinken With Margaret Brennan of CBS’s Face the Nation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    Benjamin Franklin Room

    QUESTION:  We go now to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who joins us from the State Department here in Washington.  Good to have you with us, Mr. Secretary.  I know you have been working —

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thanks, Margaret.

    QUESTION:  — straight through on this.  Can you answer the question yet of whether the Hamas assault is over?  Are there more attacks

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Iran , Israel , Saudi Arabia , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    Benjamin Franklin Room

    QUESTION:  Mr. Secretary, thank you for joining us this morning.  I know you’ve been working through the day, through the weekend.  What is the United States doing right now?  What comes next?

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, George, first, to put this in perspective – and as some of your correspondents just said – this is the worst attack on Israel since 1973, the Yom Kipp

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Iran , Israel , Saudi Arabia , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Countering Terrorism, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States of America, I extend to Prime Minister Sudani and the Iraqi people our sincere congratulations as you celebrate your independence.

    The 360-degree strategic partnership that exists between our two countries continues to advance our shared values as we work together to address global challenges like tackling climate change, promoting economic development, advancing human rights, protecting th

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Iraq , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of Germany as they celebrate 33 years of reunification on this German Unity Day.

    The American and German people share an inherent commitment to defend and promote democratic institutions, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. Over the years, our friendship has grown into a multi-faceted partnership. Today, the United States views Germany as a key G7 partner, vital NATO Ally

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Germany , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Guinea on the 65th anniversary of your independence.

    The United States continues to stand with the people of Guinea in their aspirations for democracy. We support the Guinean people in their pursuit of the return of a democratically-elected, civilian-led government, and we reaffirm our commitment to helping achieve that goal throughout this period of transition.

    On this occas

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Guinea , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of Cyprus as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your nation’s 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, freedom, and human dignity. The bonds between our nations have never been stronger, and we look forward to further deepening the full ra

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Cyprus , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Nigeria on the 63rd anniversary of your independence.

    The United States and Nigeria have built a strong partnership based on our shared values and common pursuit of a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure world. The United States is committed to strengthening our partnership and continuing to work together to promote inclusive economic growth, safeguard human rights, and combat inse

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Nigeria , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    The United States is committed to supporting and advancing democracy in Liberia and around the world. Today, I am announcing a new visa restriction policy under Section 212(a)(3)C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act for those undermining democracy in Liberia. This policy will take effect in advance of the upcoming election.

    Under this policy, the United States will pursue visa restrictions for those believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, u

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Liberia , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    Benjamin Franklin Room

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good afternoon.  Welcome.  Welcome back to the State Department for so many of you.  Welcome to the Ben Franklin Room, newly refurbished.  A lot went into this.  And I think maybe a word about Ben Franklin before we get to today’s event.

    As you all know, he was America’s first diplomat, ambassador to France, negotiated our first treaty, charted the Gulf Stream, pioneered el

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: China, France , Japan , Philippines , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Turkmenistan as they celebrate Turkmenistan’s National Day on September 27.

    The United States maintains an enduring commitment to Turkmenistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rooted in your country’s principle of positive neutrality. As we reflect on our bilateral achievements during the past year, we look to our 32nd year of diplomatic rela

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Turkmenistan , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown

    Washington, DC

    Treaty Room

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, good evening, everyone.  It’s a great pleasure to be here with Prime Minister Brown, and a particular pleasure because of the reason we’re here.  When we had the initial summit with our Pacific Island partners back in 2022, President Biden announced his intent to recognize the Cook Islands.  And today, with the exchange of letters signed by t

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Cook Islands , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malta as you celebrate 59 years of independence. The United States values its longstanding friendship with Malta, which started at the founding of our nation more than two centuries ago.

    We are grateful for Malta’s efforts in support of transatlantic and European values, including strong support for Ukraine and its sovereignty in the face of Russia’s aggression. We

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Malta , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the United States of America, I send best wishes to the people of Armenia on your Independence Day. Armenia put itself on a path towards freedom and self-determination when it declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, we have seen your commitment to democratic values, to developing and strengthening human rights, rule of law, economy, and justice for all Armenians. These values echo our own and we are proud to partner with A

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Armenia , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    New York City, New York

    Palace Hotel

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you, Uzra.  And I actually did not want to interrupt the important intervention that was going on.  (Laughter.)  So we can continue that, or I’m – I’ll pick it up later.  But I am so gratified to see so many colleagues here today both from governments but also from the private sector.  I think it speaks to the importance that we all attach to this effort, initiative,

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Korea, South , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    New York City, New York

    United Nations Headquarters

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you very much.  Mr. Prime Minister, thank you for focusing the Security Council on this critically important issue.  And Mr. Secretary-General, thank you for the moral clarity that you’ve shown in dealing with Russia’s war against Ukraine.

    We’re grateful to have been able to welcome President Zelenskyy to this council table, and we thank him.  We thank him

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Belarus , Iran , Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    New York City, New York

    Ford Foundation

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Administrator Power, Sam, my friend, thank you – thank you very much, but thank you especially for truly remarkable leadership at USAID.  I see that every day, and I see that around the world whenever I go to one of our missions around the world; where the rubber really meets the road is in the work of USAID, and it’s extraordinary, and it’s making a profound difference in lives a

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Moldova , Tanzania , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    Treaty Room

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Crown Prince Salman, Your Royal Highness, welcome back to the State Department, to Washington, a city that I know you know very well from your student days just up the road at American University.  We’ve had the chance to discuss that before.  Things have changed a little bit on campus, but we’re delighted to have you back in Washington.

    And to the National Security Advisor

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Bahrain , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Treaties and International Agreements

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Washington, D.C.

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Thank you.  Good morning, everyone.

    AUDIENCE:  Good morning.

    SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Dean Steinberg, Jim, thank you for the honor of joining the SAIS community to help inaugurate this truly magnificent new home.

    Jim has contributed so much over his remarkable career, but his most lasting contribution is the generation of thinkers, the generation of d

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Armenia , Australia , Canada , China, Ethiopia , France , India , Iran , Iraq , Israel , Italy , Japan , Korea, North , Lebanon , New Zealand , Russia , Sweden , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States , Yemen

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Countering Terrorism, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    I welcome the appointment of Dr. Eileen C. Donahoe as the State Department’s Special Envoy and Coordinator for Digital Freedom in the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy.

    The President’s appointment of Dr. Donahoe reinforces the importance of digital freedom and values-based technology governance work as Administration and Department priorities. As Special Envoy and Coordinator, Dr. Donahoe will leverage her deep technical knowledge and foreign poli

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I share my best wishes to the people of Tajikistan as they mark 32 years of independence on September 9.

    The United States reaffirms our commitment to supporting Tajikistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We are proud to continue to strengthen our partnership through economic linkages, expanding people-to-people ties, supporting civil society, and bolstering cooperation

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Tajikistan , United States

    Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Kyiv, Ukraine

     

    FOREIGN MINISTER KULEBA: (Via interpreter) Tony, welcome to Kyiv.  I think that there is – we don’t need any formal greetings because during this time with joint work – specifically with the beginning of the large-scale invasion – our relationship with the Ukraine and United States, they went to such level that we don’t need a – we need everything – what we need is just open and sincere conversation.  And this is what

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Norway , Russia , Saudi Arabia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Kyiv, Ukraine

    PRESIDENT ZELENSKYY:  Dear Antony, Mr. Secretary, your team – you’re very welcome to have you and to host you today.  And it’s important visit for us, for Ukrainians.  And I think that (inaudible) visit (inaudible) the full-scale war and a supporting message to our whole society.  Especially now when the war is here, this is a difficult challenge and difficult – a tough period for our society.  And always the leaders of United State

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy

  • Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

    Kyiv, Ukraine

    AMBASSADOR BRINK:  It is a privilege and an honor for me to be here with you as we give a very, very warm welcome to our Secretary of State, Tony Blinken.  Thank you, Mr. Secretary.  (Applause.)

    As members of Mission Kyiv, we all know the challenges and the demands of this work.  The hours are long – sometimes dangerous – and the future can seem uncertain.  But we also know why we’re here and we know why it matters.  We are h

    Roles: Everyone: All Users

    Regions: Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States

    Topics: Coronavirus (COVID-19), Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Human Rights and Democracy

    • Regions









































































































































































































































    • Topics