America.gov-Peace and Security

United States Heartened by Saberi’s Release from Iranian Prison

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 11 May 2009 18:48:11 -0400

The United States is heartened by the release of Iranian-American journalist Roxana Saberi from Tehran’s Evin prison after an appeals court cut her eight-year prison term to a two-year suspended sentence, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says.

Commercial Fleet Owners Ask U.S. Congress for Solutions on Piracy

Kathryn McConnell — Fri, 08 May 2009 15:58:30 -0400

Some members of the commercial shipping industry tell the U.S. Congress they want legal authority to carry armed security personnel on their vessels as a defense against pirates. But other specialists and government officials are cautious about arming merchant ships.

Assistant Secretary for African Affairs Carson Takes Office

Charles W. Corey — Fri, 08 May 2009 09:29:19 -0400

While advances have taken place in Africa in democracy and governance, economic development and resolution of conflicts, more progress must be made, as “the greatest moments in Africa’s long history have not yet been written,” says Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Johnnie Carson.

Reducing Nuclear Arsenals Is a Critical U.S.-Russian Concern

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 07 May 2009 16:08:53 -0400

Reducing nuclear arsenals is among the highest priorities shared by United States and Russia, but an array of other issues from the Middle East to North Korea also fills the crowded agenda between the two nations, Secretary of State Clinton says after meeting with her Russian counterpart.

Recognition Grows of Pakistan, Afghanistan as Regional Problem

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 07 May 2009 15:51:55 -0400

There is a new recognition that challenges to Afghanistan and Pakistan from Taliban and al-Qaida insurgents are a regional problem and require a common front, U.S. National Security Advisor General James Jones says after President Obama’s meetings with his Afghan and Pakistani counterparts.

Obama Proposes Massive Global Health Initiative

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 07 May 2009 11:36:26 -0400

The United States is launching a six-year global health initiative that will help some of the poorest regions of the world fight health challenges that kill people who could otherwise be saved with improved health care, says President Obama.

“Unprecedented Cooperation” in Pakistan, Afghanistan Talks

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 06 May 2009 18:50:24 -0400

Meetings in Washington involving President Obama, Afghanistan’s President Karzai and Pakistan’s President Zardari focus on common security threats and improving economic growth and opportunity. Obama says the meetings have “advanced unprecedented cooperation” between the two South Asian neighbors.

Anti-Piracy Efforts Along Africa Coast Show Some Success

Charles W. Corey — Wed, 06 May 2009 16:45:35 -0400

Efforts to blunt maritime piracy off the coast of Somalia in the Gulf of Aden are beginning to show some success, but there is an international consensus that more must be done, a State Department officials tells a congressional committee.

U.S. Delegation Seeks to Resume North Korea Talks

Merle David Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 06 May 2009 16:38:49 -0400

A U.S. delegation is traveling to Northeast Asia and Moscow to determine if North Korea can be convinced to resume Six-Party Talks. “We all, in the international community, have an interest in seeing a denuclearized Korean Peninsula,” State Department spokesman Robert Wood says.

U.S. Economy Should Improve in Late 2009, Fed Chair Bernanke Says

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 05 May 2009 09:57:54 -0400

While domestic unemployment is likely to increase in the coming months, there are indications that the pace of the current U.S. economic crisis may be slowing, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke says. “We continue to expect economic activity to bottom out, then to turn up later this year.”

Biden Urges Israel to End Settlements, Back Two-State Solution

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 05 May 2009 17:08:17 -0400

Vice-President Biden tells U.S. supporters of Israel that the United States is committed to Israel’s peace and security, but Israel must demonstrate its commitment to peace by working toward a two-state solution with the Palestinians and ending its building of settlements.

Pakistan’s Security Seen as Vital to U.S. National Security

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 05 May 2009 16:59:20 -0400

The hallmarks of U.S. engagement with Pakistan must be constancy and consistency to assure a strong partnership in the fight against the Taliban, State’s Richard Holbrooke tells a House panel ahead of talks in Washington involving President Obama and the presidents of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Obama Seeks Close Coordination with Afghan, Pakistani Leaders

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 05 May 2009 11:48:32 -0400

President Obama’s meetings with President Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan and President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan in Washington May 6 are expected to be “very productive” as the three leaders seek to improve trilateral cooperation in the face of common security and economic challenges.

Young Mariners Get Up-Close Lesson in Thwarting Pirates

Matt Herrick — Mon, 04 May 2009 18:05:10 -0400

Massachusetts Maritime Academy and other merchant marine institutions are preparing cadets to mitigate the threats posed by pirates off the coasts of Africa, South America and East Asia, as acts of piracy grow in number and daring.

United States Must Do More to Help Pakistan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 04 May 2009 15:27:13 -0400

The chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff says he is concerned about the progress the Taliban insurgency has had in Pakistan and believes the United States must do more over the next two years to help the Pakistani government and armed forces succeed.

Global Coordination Can Stop Pirates

Kathryn Mcconnell — Fri, 01 May 2009 15:26:52 -0400

Analysts testify that commercial ships traveling off the African coast should not be armed, despite increasingly brazen attacks on them by pirates. A State Department official says the United States hopes that growing international cooperation will improve maritime-security efforts.

Obama Marks His First 100 Days

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 18:28:34 -0400

Marking an odyssey that began 100 days ago when he became the first African-American president in U.S. history, President Obama reflects for long moments before the nation on what his presidency has achieved and what still needs to be done.

Terrorist Attacks Fell 18 Percent in 2008, Report Says

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 16:44:21 -0400

The number of terrorism attacks worldwide in 2008 fell 18 percent from 2007, and the number of deaths from attacks last year fell 30 percent from 2007, the State Department reports in its annual report on terrorism. “Al-Qaida and associated networks continued to lose ground,” the report said.

Senate Committee Reviews U.S.-Africa Relationship

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 10:35:29 -0400

Piracy and maritime security, Sudan, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Ethiopia, corruption, and freedom of the press — all important issues in the U.S.-Africa relationship — are addressed by Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs-designate Johnnie Carson in testimony before a Senate committee.

Key to Obama Foreign Policy Is Expanded Global Engagement

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 11:05:37 -0400

President Obama set three major foreign policy goals when his administration began 100 days ago: re-establish America’s standing in the world; create dialogue with friends, partners and adversaries based on mutual respect; and work together in building partnerships.

Democratic Policing Essential to Protect Individual Liberties

Jane Morse — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:52:28 -0400

Police officials are often the first contact a person has with a country’s legal system. The American Bar Association’s Rule of Law Initiative helps train law enforcement officials around the world so that the first citizen-police encounter is a positive one.

Experts Say Cooperation Between U.S., Russia Is an Imperative

Jonathan F. Schaffer — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:34:45 -0400

Experts from the United States and Russia, meeting in Washington for the annual World Russia Forum, see closer U.S.-Russian relations as less an option than an imperative if issues ranging from nuclear nonproliferation to energy security are to be addressed effectively.

World Bank Calls for Action to Prevent Global Catastrophe

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 16:24:40 -0400

The World Bank is calling for greater action by nations to curb the current financial and economic crisis before it turns into “a human and development calamity.” “There is a widespread recognition that the world faces an unprecedented economic crisis,” World Bank President Robert Zoellick says.

United States Supports Free, Independent, Sovereign Lebanon

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 15:04:36 -0400

The United States supports a free, independent and sovereign Lebanon, and parliamentary elections there in June that are without intimidation and outside influence, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says during a visit to Beirut.

Stability in Pakistan Is Central to U.S. Efforts in Afghanistan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 20:10:25 -0400

The stability and longevity of democracy in Pakistan is central to efforts by the U.S.-led coalition in Afghanistan, Defense Secretary Robert Gates says. “The Taliban in Pakistan are in fact an existential threat to the democratic government of that country.”

U.S.-Russia Nuclear Arms Reduction Talks Begin

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 12:37:28 -0400

The first round of “very productive” negotiations to replace a 1991 nuclear arms reduction treaty have begun in Rome between senior U.S. and Russian diplomats. The negotiations are aimed at developing a replacement for the 1991 Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty before it expires in December.

Progress in Afghanistan Depends on Progress in Pakistan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 17:58:15 -0400

Progress in suppressing a revived Taliban insurgency in Afghanistan depends on bringing stability and security to Pakistan, Secretary of State Clinton tells a congressional panel. Clinton says the administration is “deeply concerned by the increasing insurgency that is destabilizing Pakistan.”

United States Will Push for Increased Trade Liberalization

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 16:43:44 -0400

The Obama administration will work for the successful completion of the long-running Doha round of world trade talks and for congressional passage of three bilateral free-trade agreements, says U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk.

Clinton Praises Liberia’s Sirleaf for Debt Reduction Actions

Charles Corey — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:04:03 -0400

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, after a meeting with Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf at the State Department, praises the African nation for its recent debt-reduction program and pledges further U.S. development assistance.

Clinton Discusses Wide-Ranging U.S. Diplomatic Agenda

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 15:17:58 -0400

The United States is pursuing a wide-ranging diplomatic agenda that is based on strengthening alliances, cultivating partnerships with key regional powers and building constructive relationships with China and Russia, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says.

United States Will Be Engaged in Arab-Israeli Peace Process

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 16:45:03 -0400

The prospect of an Arab-Israeli peace still exists, but will require some difficult choices, says President Obama. “The United States is going to deeply engage in this process to see if we can make progress,” the president says shortly after meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah II.

Clinton Calls for Unity in the Americas

Crystal G. Ofori — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 16:38:13 -0400

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton calls for unity among the nations of the Western Hemisphere to confront issues affecting the hemisphere as a whole. In Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Clinton holds a digital town hall of the Americas and discusses a wide range of regional issues.

Obama Says U.S., Cuba Taking Critical Steps Toward a New Day

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 12:39:16 -0400

Although Cuba was not on the agenda for the fifth Summit of the Americas, the country was nevertheless on the minds of those participating in the gathering of 34 democratically elected hemispheric leaders April 17–19. “The United States seeks a new beginning with Cuba,” President Obama says.

Obama Praises Constructive Talks at Summit of the Americas

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 15:32:36 -0400

President Obama said the United States entered the fifth Summit of the Americas in equal partnership with the nations of the Western Hemisphere based on mutual respect, common interests and shared values, and leaves after three days of constructive talks with what he called a good first step.

United States, Mexico to Strive for Clean Energy Economies

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:19:15 -0400

The United States and Mexico form a partnership to create clean energy economies and reduce the effects of global warming. “This is a priority for the United States. I know it’s a priority for President Calderón,” President Obama says.

Obama Supports an Inter-American Arms Treaty

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 18:41:20 -0400

President Obama announces during a press conference in Mexico City that he will seek U.S. Senate ratification of an inter-American arms trafficking treaty that is designed to curb the flow of illegal firearms and ammunition to drug cartels and other armed groups operating in the Western Hemisphere.

United States Expands Fight Against Pirates

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 17:01:44 -0400

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says the United States is working on a long-term strategy that will thwart high seas piracy and restore maritime security to the Horn of Africa. “These pirates are criminals. They are armed gangs on the sea,” Clinton says.

Clinton Tells Donors’ Conference Haiti Needs Help Now

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 13:55:20 -0400

The time to help Haiti is now because inaction would lead to significantly greater human suffering, Secretary of State Clinton tells a conference of donors for Haiti. Delegates from 28 nations and organizations pledge $324 million in additional aid to Haiti over the next two years.

United States Praises U.N. Security Council Action on North Korea

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 12:55:11 -0400

The United States praises the U.N. Security Council’s unanimous condemnation of North Korea’s recent launch of a three-stage Taepodong-2 missile into the Pacific Ocean April 5 and its pledge to strengthen sanctions against North Korea for violating a 2006 U.N. resolution.

Obama Heads to Mexico, Summit of the Americas April 16–19

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 11:23:49 -0400

The United States believes attendance at the Summit of the Americas is part of a process of re-engaging with the Western Hemisphere, a senior U.S. diplomat says. The 2009 summit is being held in Port of Spain, the capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, April 17–19.

Obama to Allow More Travel, Money Transfers to Cuba

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 16:58:08 -0400

The United States will allow Cuban Americans unlimited travel and money transfers to family in Cuba, the White House says. Sending money to senior government officials and members of the Cuban Community Party remains prohibited. A 47-year-old trade embargo on Cuba also remains unchanged.

Relief Workers Might Suffer from Undiagnosed Trauma

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 09:56:50 -0400

In the aftermath of man-made and natural disasters, humanitarian aid workers provide critical recovery services to help the affected areas get back on their feet. But sometimes it is the aid workers themselves who need help as they confront their own stress and trauma.

Summit of the Americas: An Introduction

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 09:59:13 -0400

The fifth Summit of the Americas in April will promote human prosperity, energy security, environmental sustainability, public security and democratic governance. The overarching goal of the summit is to improve the lives and livelihoods of all Americans.

Podcast: Peta Thornycroft, Freelance Journalist

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 18:48:24 -0400

Listen to Peta Thornycroft offer advice to journalists covering conflict zones. Thornycroft has constantly taken extreme risks in her more that 35 years as an independent journalist in southern Africa.

United States Remembers 1994 Rwandan Genocide

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 11:58:54 -0400

President Obama says the anniversary of the 1994 Rwandan genocide is a somber occasion to reflect on the deaths of more than 800,000 people killed “simply because of their ethnicity or their political beliefs. The memory of these events also deepens our commitment to act when faced with genocide.”

Veteran Reporter Outlines Challenges of Reporting from Zimbabwe

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 19:10:50 -0400

Practicing effective journalism under dangerous or repressive conditions is especially challenging. Zimbabwean freelance reporter Peta Thornycroft talks to America.gov about her experiences and offers some expert advice and warnings on what it takes to get the job done.

Obama Makes Unannounced Visit to Iraq

David McKeeby — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 16:40:40 -0400

A gradual U.S. military withdrawal in Iraq will help cement security gains as the Iraqi government continues gaining strength, President Obama says during a surprise visit to Baghdad. Obama arrived in Iraq from neighboring Turkey, the final leg of a weeklong European tour.

Economic Crisis Top Item on Summit of the Americas Agenda

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 14:57:25 -0400

One of the central issues confronting the 34 leaders of the Western Hemisphere is that the economic gains so hard won over the past six years are being threatened by the current downturn in the global economy, says the White House adviser for the Summit of the Americas.

Repairing Ties in Turkey, Obama Reaches Out to Muslim World

David McKeeby — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 17:55:52 -0400

President Obama completes his first overseas tour in Turkey, where he says America’s new efforts to engage with the Muslim world are part of his administration’s commitment to a foreign policy rooted in mutual respect and seeking common solutions to global challenges.

NATO Renews Commitment to Afghanistan’s Future

David McKeeby — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 16:28:17 -0400

NATO marked its 60th anniversary by pledging renewed resolve in its mission to help Afghanistan root out terrorist safe havens and emerge from decades of conflict. NATO members know “al-Qaida is a threat to all of us, and that this collective security effort must achieve its goals,” Obama says.

Obama Seeks World Free of Nuclear Weapons

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 15:44:58 -0400

President Obama vowed that the United States will take concrete steps toward a world free of nuclear weapons. “We will reduce the role of nuclear weapons in our national security strategy and urge others to do the same,” Obama said in an April 5 speech in Prague.

Obama Condemns North Korea’s Missile Launch

Merle Kellerhals Jr. — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 15:01:19 -0400

President Obama condemned North Korea’s launch of a Taepodong-2 missile as a threat to the security of Northeast Asia and international peace and security. “With this provocative act, North Korea has ... further isolated itself from the community of nations,” Obama said April 5 in Prague.

United States, Europeans Share a Convergence of Views

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 18:55:07 -0400

President Obama holds separate meetings with French President Sarkozy and German Chancellor Merkel prior to activities at the NATO 60th anniversary summit in France and Germany. Among the issues confronting the NATO alliance at this summit is support for continuing operations in Afghanistan.

Obama Seeks Renewed Trans-Atlantic Ties

David McKeeby — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 17:17:31 -0400

The United States is taking a new approach to a host of emerging global challenges, but friends and allies such as Europe must shoulder their share of the burden, says President Obama, making the case for renewed trans-Atlantic ties during a town hall-style meeting in Strasbourg, France.

U.S. Says North Korean Rocket Launch Would Be Provocative Act

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 16:48:59 -0400

North Korea should reconsider launching a rocket because a launch would be an unnecessarily provocative act, a senior U.S. diplomat says. “If it does occur, we will be continuing to work closely with our partners and our allies in the U.N. Security Council,” Ambassador Stephen Bosworth says.

India a Crucial U.S. Partner, Says Obama

David McKeeby — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 17:59:47 -0400

India is a key partner of the United States in addressing a wide range of global challenges, President Obama tells reporters April 2 before meeting with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on the sidelines of the G20 financial summit in London.

Obama Vows Strengthened U.S.-South Korea Ties

David McKeeby — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 17:30:21 -0400

President Obama vows to further strengthen the U.S.-South Korea alliance, praising Seoul’s efforts to address the global financial crisis and its contributions to international peace and security. He met with South Korean President Lee Myung-bak on the sidelines of the G20 summit in London.

Obama Calls G20 Summit a Turning Point for Recovery

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:31:16 -0400

President Obama says the G20 Summit is a turning point in the pursuit of global economic recovery. “The London Summit was historic. It was historic because of the size and scope of the challenges we face and because of the timeliness and magnitude of our response,” Obama says.

G20 Pledges $1.1 Trillion for Economic Recovery

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 15:13:42 -0400

The world’s most powerful economies pledge $1.1 trillion to restore credit, economic growth and jobs. “Together with the measures we have each taken nationally, this constitutes a global plan for recovery on an unprecedented scale,” states a communiqué from the G20 London Summit.

U.S. Congress to Consider Unrestricted Travel to Cuba

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 14:04:26 -0400

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators believes that permitting U.S. citizens to travel to Cuba freely will break down economic and trade barriers between the two countries. Legislation to ease restrictions on travel to Cuba from the United States is pending in both chambers of Congress.

United States, China Agree to Enhanced Strategic, Economic Talks

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:27:28 -0400

The United States and China have agreed to actively seek improvements in U.S.-China relations and address global issues of common interest, President Obama and Chinese President Hu Jintao say. Obama has accepted an invitation from Hu to visit China later in 2009.

United States to Seek Membership on U.N. Human Rights Council

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:56:30 -0400

The United States believes working within the U.N. Human Rights Council is the best way to improve the council’s goal of thwarting global human rights abuses, says the U.S. envoy to the United Nations, and will seek a seat on the council during the next round of elections to the council on May 15.

Albania and Croatia Join NATO

Carlos Aranaga — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 14:55:00 -0400

Albania and Croatia are the newest members of NATO. In a joint ceremony at the State Department April 1, representatives from Albania and Croatia deposited instruments of accession to the North Atlantic Treaty, becoming the 27th and 28th members of the alliance.

Obama, Russia’s Medvedev Announce New Arms Control Plan

David McKeeby — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 14:54:40 -0400

President Obama and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev announce plans for deep, new cuts in their nuclear weapons arsenals in a move toward charting a new course in U.S.-Russian relations. “What we're seeing today is the beginning of new progress in the U.S.-Russian relations,” Obama says.

U.S. Says Progress in Afghanistan Depends on Commitment

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 10:55:11 -0400

Future progress in Afghanistan will depend on a substantial and sustained U.S. commitment, Pentagon officials say. The United States must eliminate safe havens in the Pakistani mountain range on the border of Afghanistan used by al-Qaida and Taliban and prevent these groups’ reemergence.

Obama Makes Debut on World Stage

David McKeeby — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:49:03 -0400

At the G20 summit in London, President Obama showcases his administration’s collaborative approach to foreign policy. “To confront a crisis that knows no borders, we have a responsibility to coordinate our actions and to focus on common ground, not on our occasional differences,” he says.

North Atlantic Treaty Travels for First Time to Europe

Carlos Aranaga — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:42:42 -0400

The treaty that brought the North Atlantic Treaty Organization into being on April 4, 1949, has left the United States for the first time to be featured at the 60^th anniversary NATO Summit, which will be held in Strasbourg, France, and Kehl Germany, and also Baden-Baden, Germany, April 3–4.

Clinton Calls for Renewed Global Engagement in Afghanistan

David McKeeby — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 18:02:03 -0400

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton calls for a renewed global commitment to stabilizing Afghanistan and the Pakistan border region. “What happens in Afghanistan matters to us all,” she tells the International Conference on Afghanistan in The Hague, Netherlands.

Obama Dispatches Special Envoy to Sudan

David McKeeby — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 16:54:22 -0400

President Obama sends special envoy Scott Gration to urge Sudan’s leaders to let more than a dozen humanitarian aid groups resume services to families driven from their homes by the crisis in the country’s Darfur region. Gration will visit to Khartoum, Darfur and southern Sudan for consultations.

New Afghan-Pakistan Plan a Comprehensive Strategy, Obama Says

David McKeeby — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 13:16:03 -0400

America’s new strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan is narrowly focused on dismantling terrorist networks but will employ a wide array of tactics, from strengthening regional security forces to a renewed focus on diplomacy and development, says President Obama.

Obama Heads to Europe with Extensive Schedule

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 13:36:15 -0400

President Obama heads to Europe to address issues that range from the global economy and financial regulation to security, especially in Afghanistan and Pakistan, nuclear nonproliferation and the Middle East. He will attend G20, NATO and EU summits, and visit Turkey.

United States Seeks Collaborative Solution to Financial Crisis

David McKeeby — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 18:09:16 -0400

The United States seeks a fresh start with its neighbors across the Americas, beginning with a collaborative approach to confronting the global financial crisis, says Vice President Biden. “We genuinely want to be collaborative. … We genuinely want to know what others think.”

U.S. Navy to Monitor Planned North Korean Rocket Launch

David McKeeby — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 17:42:22 -0400

The United States has deployed two missile-interceptor ships to monitor a planned North Korean rocket launch. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says the launch appears to be another step by North Korea toward nuclear weapon capabilities.

United States to Host Climate Change Forum in April

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 16:09:24 -0400

The United States has invited 16 major economies to a forum in April to discuss climate change and clean energy ventures, the White House says. The April 27–28 meeting in Washington is designed to culminate in a leaders’ meeting on the sidelines of the G8 Summit in July in La Maddalena, Italy.

Obama on a New Strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan

Janelle Simmons — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 10:34:21 -0400

The White House releases remarks made by President Barack Obama on his administration’s new strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Obama Announces New Strategy for Afghanistan, Pakistan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 13:49:26 -0400

Saying it is an international security challenge of the highest order, President Obama sets a new strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan that aims to disrupt, dismantle and defeat al-Qaida and the Taliban. One element in the strategy is training and increasing the size of the Afghan security forces.

Biden on a New Day for Partnership in the Americas

Amor Safi — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 12:23:31 -0400

In a March 27 news commentary, Vice President Biden discusses steps the Obama administration is taking to build partnerships with other countries in the Western Hemisphere.

Obama Urges Renewed NATO Effort in Afghanistan

David McKeeby — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:03:16 -0400

As NATO prepares to celebrate its 60th birthday, President Obama calls for a renewed commitment to Afghanistan and other shared security challenges facing the 26-nation alliance. “We are confident that we can create a process whereby NATO, which is already strong, becomes stronger,” Obama says.

Clinton Says United States Stands with Mexico Against Criminals

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:26:20 -0400

The United States “will stand shoulder to shoulder” with Mexico against criminals and drug kingpins who have been spreading violence and lawlessness along the U.S.-Mexican border, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says. Clinton is on a two-day trip to Mexico City and Monterrey.

United States Committed to Free, Democratic Lebanon

David McKeeby — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:30:49 -0400

Renewed engagement with Syria will not come at the price of America’s unwavering support for a free, democratic Lebanon, says a top U.S. diplomat. Such support is a key component to lasting peace and security in the Middle East, adds acting Assistant Secretary of State Jeffrey Feltman.

China Modernizing Its Military Power, Pentagon Says

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:07:57 -0400

China’s military modernization program has made considerable progress in building and fielding credible and capable military power with regional and strategic implications, a congressionally mandated report from the U.S. Department of Defense says.

Obama Administration Seeks New Progress in U.S.-Indian Relations

David McKeeby — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 17:50:41 -0400

The Obama administration wants to build on a landmark nuclear cooperation deal to continue a historic transformation in relations between the United States and India, Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg tells a policy research group.

Clinton to Discuss U.S.-Mexico Issues with Calderón

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:47:13 -0400

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is beginning her first diplomatic mission to Mexico with visits to Mexico City to discuss U.S. relations and to Monterrey to look at research on renewable energy and high-technology companies.

Obama Boosts U.S.-Mexico Cooperation Against Drug Cartels

David McKeeby — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 12:38:24 -0400

Top officials in the Obama administration announce a comprehensive strategy to expand U.S.-Mexican efforts to confront and dismantle violent drug trafficking cartels working in the region. “We are taking steps on both sides of the border,” the White House press secretary says.

United States Seeks Multilateral Diplomacy with World Community

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:04:49 -0400

Whether it is the crisis in Sudan’s western region of Darfur, Iran’s and North Korea’s attempts to create nuclear weapons, or atrocities being committed by a national leader, the United States actively seeks out partners and multilateral approaches to issues, a senior U.S. diplomat says.

Now Is the Time for Global Action on Economy, Obama Says

Peggy B. Hu — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:49:23 -0400

Now is the time for the leaders of the Group of 20 developed and emerging economies to take bold, comprehensive and coordinated action to jump-start economic recovery as well as launch a new era of economic engagement to prevent such crises in the future, President Obama says.

Obama Welcomes France’s Full Return to NATO

David McKeeby — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 11:57:59 -0400

President Obama welcomes French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s decision to fully return France to NATO as a move that will allow the United States and its trans-Atlantic partners to work together more effectively to confront shared security challenges.

NATO Faces Growing Challenges as 60th Anniversary Approaches

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 18:21:03 -0400

NATO’s 26 members will gather to celebrate the alliance’s 60^th birthday April 2–3 in the heart of Europe. A strategy for Afghanistan, NATO relations with Russia, selection of a new secretary-general and NATO’s evolution will dominate the agenda as the alliance members meet in France and Germany.

Sanctions Will Remain on Zimbabwe, U.S. Ambassador Says

Charles W. Corey — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 15:14:01 -0400

Zimbabwe’s new unity government must move to embrace internationally recognized human rights principles, says the U.S. ambassador to Zimbabwe. James McGee tells America.gov the United States will not lift sanctions without clear indication the new government “is moving in the right direction.”

Mexican Drug Violence a Shared Regional Challenge

Crystal G. Ofori — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 11:40:53 -0400

Mexico’s struggle against drug trafficking and organized crime is a shared challenge for the United States and the wider region, says a top U.S. official. “The Mérida Initiative is critical to our collaboration and success,” Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Roberta Jacobson says.

Obama Calls for New Beginning in U.S.-Iranian Relations

David McKeeby — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:15:59 -0400

In a special video message to the people of Iran, President Obama calls for a “new day” in relations between Washington and Tehran and a future rooted in honest engagement and mutual respect. The March 20 message comes at the beginning of Nowruz, the traditional Persian new year holiday.

Stabilizing Afghanistan Common Challenge for America and Iran

David McKeeby — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 17:27:04 -0400

American and Iranian diplomats will be attending two major meetings aimed at making new progress on a shared challenge: promoting security and development in Afghanistan and the Pakistan border region. Engaging Iran and stabilizing South Asia are among Obama’s top foreign policy priorities.

Obama Names Special Envoy for Sudan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 18:35:50 -0400

Ending the suffering and the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Darfur region of Sudan is a significant U.S. foreign policy goal, says President Obama. And to further that objective, Obama names retired Air Force Major General Scott Gration as new special envoy for Sudan.

Announcement of Special Envoy for Sudan

Janelle Simmons — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 17:33:04 -0400

President Obama announces the appointment of Major General Scott Gration as U.S. special envoy for Sudan.

Obama Welcomes Ireland’s Prime Minister to White House

David McKeeby — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:22:32 -0400

President Obama welcomes Ireland’s prime minister, Brian Cowen, to the White House for St. Patrick’s Day to honor close U.S.-Irish ties as well as to discuss global challenges facing both nations. “The contributions of the Irish to the American story cannot be overstated,” Obama says.

Clinton Spoke with Pakistani Leadership about Chief Justice

Merle David Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 19:14:44 -0400

A decision to reinstate the Pakistani chief justice came after telephone calls by Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton to Pakistani leaders over the weekend of March 14–15 urging continued political dialogue and nonviolence, a State Department spokesman says.

U.S. Companies Focus on Extracting Oil from Algae

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 18:31:46 -0400

Company researchers and military officials envision a day when algae will provide a source of inexpensive fuel for military and commercial vehicles and jets. The Defense and Energy departments are working with commercial companies to drive algae-to-fuel costs down sufficiently.

Obama, Brazil’s Lula Discuss Current Economic Crisis

Merle David Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 15:22:47 -0400

The United States believes that resolution of the current economic crisis requires an array of approaches, including stricter regulation of financial markets and increased use of stimulus plans to respond to the contraction in demand, President Obama says after meeting with Brazilian President Lula.

Diplomat Says Horn of Africa Crises Require African Solutions

Jim Fisher-Thompson — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:50:11 -0400

While foreign policy specialists believe it is important that solutions to economic and political challenges in the Horn of Africa — Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti and Somalia — be African “owned,” international entities will continue to have an impact on the region.

Obama Eager to Meet with Brazil’s Lula

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 14:25:59 -0400

President Obama meets with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on March 14 to discuss bilateral and regional relations, financial assistance and development to help with economic and social problems across the region, Assistant Secretary of State Thomas Shannon says.

Economy Seen as Overarching Issue for Americas Summit

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 15:56:47 -0400

While economic prosperity, energy security and environmental sustainability are primary issues for the fifth Summit of the Americas in April, the overarching issue confronting the Western Hemisphere is the current economic crisis, says a senior U.S. diplomat.

U.S.-China Partnership Faces Formidable Agenda, Says Clinton

David McKeeby — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:32:09 -0400

The United States and China face a formidable agenda, says Secretary of State Clinton, pledging to work with China to address common challenges and seize common opportunities. “The United States intends to work together with China to build a positive, cooperative and comprehensive relationship.”

Summit of the Americas Expected to Focus on Economic Crisis

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 16:50:30 -0400

A central concern facing the 34 nations at the fifth Summit of the Americas in April will be the global economic crisis, and whether the United States will take Latin America's needs into account, say a panel of U.S. experts.

Analysis: Obama Adds Turkey to Upcoming European Tour

David McKeeby — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 15:56:40 -0400

By adding Turkey to the itinerary of his upcoming European tour, President Obama seeks to renew ties with a key ally and increasingly active global diplomatic partner straddling Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East.

Obama: Growing Crisis in Darfur Is Not Acceptable

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:59:39 -0400

President Obama and U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon have agreed to seek ways to end the immediate humanitarian crisis in Darfur and work toward long-term peace and stability in Sudan. “It is not acceptable to put that many people’s lives at risk,” Obama said.

NATO Allies Share Vital Interest in Stabilizing Afghanistan

David McKeeby — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 10:03:46 -0400

America and its NATO allies share “a vital security interest” in stabilizing Afghanistan, says Vice President Biden. “The deteriorating situation in the region poses a security threat, from our perspective not just to the United States, but to every single nation around this table.”

Clinton Hails Renewal of U.S.-Russian Arms Control Talks

David McKeeby — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:06:47 -0400

A “fresh start” in U.S.-Russian relations will begin with a renewed commitment to shrinking stockpiles of nuclear weapons, says Secretary of State Clinton. “We intend to have an agreement by the end of the year,” Clinton says March 6, adding that the issue is a high priority for both governments.

Biden Seeks European Perspectives on Afghan-Pakistan Strategy

David McKeeby — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 17:05:30 -0400

Vice President Biden heads to Brussels to seek advice from allies on a new Afghanistan strategy. Biden will hold consultations March 10 with the NATO alliance’s principal forum, the North Atlantic Council, the NATO secretary-general, European Union leaders and non-NATO allies working in Afghanistan.

U.S. Envoys Meet with Syrian Officials

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 13:57:53 -0400

Representatives of the United States and Syria held comprehensive and constructive talks in Damascus, Syria, and found considerable common ground on an array of issues, a senior U.S. diplomat says. The key being sought in this opening with Syria is engagement, the official says.

Analysis: America and Russia “Press the Reset Button”

David McKeeby — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:22:58 -0400

By “pressing the reset button” on its relationship with Russia, America seeks strengthened partnerships on shared global challenges. “We believe that there are a lot of challenges and threats that we have inherited that we have to address, but there are also opportunities,” Secretary Clinton says.

Kenya Accepts Seven Alleged Pirates from U.S. Navy for Trial

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 18:52:06 -0400

Pirate attacks off the Somali coast have dropped from seven a month at the end of 2008 to only two a month in early 2009. The diminution of attacks can be attributed to the efforts of a coalition of navies patrolling the region as well as to efforts by countries such as Kenya to prosecute pirates.

Six Powers Seek Diplomatic Solution to Iran Nuclear Dispute

David McKeeby — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:43:00 -0400

On the sidelines of an International Atomic Energy Agency meeting in Vienna, Austria, representatives from the P5+1 — U.N. Security Council permanent members China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States, together with Germany — voice “serious concern” about Iran’s nuclear progress.

NATO Agrees to Resume High-Level Ties with Russia

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:57:58 -0400

NATO must find ways to manage differences with Russia and work constructively in areas of common interest, Secretary of State Clinton says. At a NATO meeting in Belgium, Clinton urges revival of the NATO-Russia Council, a forum created in 2002, as a mechanism for direct dialogue with Moscow.

Obama Says Sanctions Against Zimbabwean Officials Will Continue

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:28:17 -0400

President Obama says U.S. sanctions that have targeted Zimbabwean leader Robert Mugabe and his key supporters will continue due to their continued activities to undermine their country’s democratic processes and institutions. Obama cites an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to U.S. foreign policy.

U.S. Statement on Guinea-Bissau Announcement of Interim President

Amor Safi — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:44:52 -0400

The State Department releases a statement on the transition of power in Guinea-Bissau to Parliament Speaker Raimundo Pereira, the constitutional successor to the late President Joao Nino Vieira.

Time Is of the Essence for Palestinian State, Says Clinton

David McKeeby — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 18:30:30 -0400

America strongly supports the creation of a future Palestinian state, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says. In remarks in the West Bank city of Ramallah, Clinton pledges to work for peace by engaging a new Israeli government on halting settlement expansion and easing border restrictions.

Obama Seeks Improved Relations with Russia

David McKeeby — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 18:35:31 -0400

The United States seeks improved relations with Russia through strengthened partnerships to confront a wide range of shared diplomatic and security challenges, says President Obama. He also provides an update on the U.S. position on a proposed European-based missile defense system.

U.S. Will Work Vigorously for Independent Palestinian State

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 17:27:33 -0400

The United States will continue to work with Israelis and Palestinians to create a peace accord that includes the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, Secretary of State Clinton says in Jerusalem. “The road ahead, we acknowledge, is a difficult one, but there is no time to waste.”

Financial Crisis Tops Agenda in British Prime Minister’s Visit

David McKeeby — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 15:44:54 -0400

America’s long-standing “special relationship” with the United Kingdom is more vital than ever, says President Obama, as both nations stand together to face a host of emerging global challenges, from a global financial crisis to international efforts to stabilize Afghanistan.

United States May Boycott U.N. Racism Conference

David McKeeby — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 16:46:13 -0400

The United States will not participate in an upcoming U.N. conference on racism unless there are major revisions to a key draft document for the conference. Critics say the current draft unfairly singles out Israel for criticism and could erode the fundamental right to freedom of speech.

United States Pledges $900 Million for Palestinians

Merle David Kellerhals — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 14:15:45 -0400

Saying that time is of the essence, the United States pledges $900 million in U.S. humanitarian aid for the Palestinians at an international conference in Egypt. The United States is pursuing both short- and long-term strategies, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said.

Clinton Leaves for Middle East, Europe for Extended Talks

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:05:42 -0400

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is beginning a series of official visits to the Middle East and to Europe aimed at restarting Mideast peace talks and boosting trans-Atlantic relations. Clinton begins the trip March 2 at the Gaza donors conference.

Illegal Drug Trade Takes Lives, Ruins Societies

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 17:49:35 -0400

The illegal drug trade takes lives, ruins societies and undermines legitimate law enforcement and government institutions, according to the State Department's 2009 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report.

Legal Experts Take Action to Prosecute Pirates

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 15:58:38 -0400

An international commitment to combat piracy off the coast of Africa has grown strong as nations focus on the need to prosecute these criminals captured on land and at sea. The U.S. Navy and Coast Guard are working together to gather evidence needed to prosecute pirates under a new U.S.-Kenyan agreement.

Obama Says Combat Forces to Be Withdrawn from Iraq in 2010

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:16:20 -0400

The United States will withdraw most of its military forces from Iraq by mid-2010. “By August 31, 2010, our combat mission in Iraq will end,” President Obama says. “Because the most important decisions that have to be made about Iraq’s future must now be made by Iraqis.”

Engagement, Firmness Should Guide U.S. Russia Policy

Jaroslaw Anders — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 11:51:51 -0400

The new U.S. administration should base its policy toward Russia on positive engagement in areas of mutual interest, but it also should show firmness in defending its values and denying Russia a “sphere of privileged interests,” U.S. observers say.

Clinton Sends Envoys to East Asia for North Korea Talks

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:23:10 -0400

The new U.S. special representative for North Korea policy is traveling to four nations to revive multilateral talks to end the threat of nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula. During a recent private trip, Stephen Bosworth said he found North Korean officials “quite inclined toward continued dialogue.”

United States Urges Further Progress in Russia-Georgia Talks

David McKeeby — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 16:18:46 -0400

To strengthen a fragile peace in the South Caucasus, international cease-fire monitors must be granted full access to all of Georgia’s internationally recognized territory, including Moscow-backed separatist regions South Ossetia and Abkhazia, a U.S. official says.

Afghan, Pakistani Officials Join White House Strategy Talks

David McKeeby — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:12:58 -0400

Afghanistan and Pakistan have sent top officials to help the Obama administration build a newly reinvigorated international security partnership to eliminate terrorist safe havens in South Asia and help communities across the region emerge from decades of war and poverty.

Dennis Ross Named Adviser for Gulf Region, Southwest Asia

David McKeeby — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:07:11 -0400

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton selects former Middle East peace envoy Dennis Ross to be her top policy adviser on the Gulf Region and Southwest Asia, a portfolio that will include helping shape the Obama administration’s efforts to engage with Iran.

Obama Considers Japan a Strategic Ally

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:12:53 -0400

The visit by Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso, who is the first foreign official to meet with the president at the White House, signifies the strong partnership between the United States and Japan, says President Obama. They met February 24 in the Oval Office.

United States Calls for Renewal of U.N. Mission to Timor-Leste

Crystal G. Ofori — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:59:11 -0400

With help from the United Nations, Timor-Leste can continue to make strides toward lasting peace, says U.S. Ambassador Susan Rice. Rice urges support for the U.N. Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste, which has been working to rebuild institutions in Timor-Leste.

Clinton: Enhancing Relations with Governments and People

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:55:27 -0400

A significant part of Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s four-nation trip to East Asia was to connect with people in ways that they had not experienced in recent years. It is, Clinton said, an effort to create a common understanding between the United States and audiences abroad.

Allies Agree to Boost Afghanistan Aid

David McKeeby — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:38:50 -0400

NATO allies remain firmly committed to the international effort to stabilize Afghanistan, says Defense Secretary Robert Gates following a gathering in Krakow, Poland, of defense ministers from the 26-nation alliance. Gates cites pledges from 20 countries to increase security assistance and development aid.

America Builds New African Partnerships to Tackle Piracy

Charles W. Corey — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:07:49 -0400

The United States and international partners are helping African governments confront piracy and improve maritime security on two coasts of Africa. Jun Bando of the State Department says these issues must be handled in a comprehensive way that includes fisheries management, law enforcement and port security.

United States Seeks to Salvage Air Base Agreement in Kyrgyzstan

David McKeeby — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:49:59 -0400

As Kyrgyzstan moves to shut down a key air base supporting international efforts to stabilize Afghanistan, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says the United States is open to further negotiations, but also is exploring alternative supply routes in the region.

Spacecraft Missions Play Dodgeball with Orbiting Debris

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:46:57 -0400

Thousands of pieces of space debris are orbiting the earth, posing a potential threat to manned flight and vital communications satellites. U.S. and Russian officials are consulting in the wake of the February 10 collision of two of their satellites.

Clinton Names Special Representative for North Korea Policy

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 15:46:15 -0400

Veteran American diplomat Stephen Bosworth, the current dean of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, is selected as special representative for North Korea policy and will oversee the Six-Party Talks on halting North Korea's nuclear development program.

Biden Says Accurate Intelligence Essential for Policymaking

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 12:32:49 -0400

The Obama administration will need timely, credible and accurate intelligence from the nation’s 16-agency intelligence community if it is to carry out its goals and objectives over the next four years, Vice President Biden says.

Report Says Iran Has Enough Uranium to Make a Nuclear Bomb

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 11:46:28 -0400

The United States finds an international nuclear inspection report that shows that Iran has enough weapons-grade uranium on hand to make a nuclear bomb “deeply troubling,” State Department deputy spokesman Gordon Duguid says. The report indicates Iran has approximately 1,010 kilograms of uranium.

Obama Renews U.S. Commitment to Canada

David McKeeby — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:18:28 -0400

President Obama and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper announce a new clean energy initiative and joint efforts to confront the global economic crisis as both cite the close relationship of the two North American neighbors following meetings in Ottawa.

Defense Secretary Gates Reflects on the Changing Nature of NATO

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:35:28 -0400

The United States believes that its NATO allies can make a significant, longer-term contribution in Afghanistan on the civilian side while U.S. forces work on strengthening the military side, Defense Secretary Robert Gates says. Gates is in Krakow, Poland, for an informal meeting of NATO defense ministers.

United States Welcomes Progress in Russia-Georgia Talks

David McKeeby — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 09:52:27 -0400

Russian and Georgian negotiators in Geneva agree to avoid new clashes by opening new lines of communication, a move cautiously welcomed by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried. Fried also pledges that the United States will continue working with Moscow to promote peace in the region.

Obama’s First Foreign Visit Is to Canada

David McKeeby — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:16:20 -0400

Economics, energy and the environment will top the agenda when President Obama makes his first official trip to northern neighbor Canada. The one-day visit will feature a meeting with Canada’s governor general and talks with Prime Minister Stephen Harper, top officials and opposition leader Michael Ignatieff.

Obama Orders First New Troops to Afghanistan

David McKeeby — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 09:47:46 -0400

President Obama orders 17,000 additional U.S. troops to Afghanistan to stabilize deteriorating security conditions as his administration works with allies and regional partners to formulate a comprehensive recovery strategy for the shattered South Asian nation.

A North Korean Missile Launch Would Be Unhelpful, Clinton Says

Merle David Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 13:59:25 -0400

A long-range ballistic missile launch by North Korea would prove unhelpful in enhancing U.S. and North Korean relations, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says.

U.S. Wants Rigorous, Persistent Engagement in Asia, Clinton Says

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:18:50 -0400

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says that the United States wants a more rigorous and persistent commitment and engagement with East Asia across an array of issues from the current economic crisis to nuclear proliferation, climate change, clean energy, health and income.

United States Wants to Consult with Russia on Missile Defense

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 12:36:36 -0400

The United States wants to consult with its NATO partners and with Russia to determine if a cooperative approach to a missile defense shield in Europe can be developed, U.S. Under Secretary of State William Burns says in an interview in Moscow.

Top U.S. Commander Considers Road Ahead in Afghanistan

David McKeeby — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 11:22:34 -0400

Stabilizing Afghanistan will take an intensified international commitment to securing and serving the Afghan people, says U.S. Army General David Petraeus. According to Petraeus, the fundamental principles of counterinsurgency doctrine will be essential to success in the shattered South Asian nation.

Economic Crisis Seen Posing Significant Threat to United States

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 16:49:11 -0400

The most significant immediate threat to the United States is the global economic crisis, National Intelligence Director Dennis Blair says. “Time is probably our greatest threat. The longer it takes for the recovery to begin, the greater the likelihood of serious damage to U.S. strategic interests.”

U.N. Peace Building Shows Progress in Sierra Leone

Crystal G. Ofori — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:51:56 -0400

America applauds progress by the United Nations and the government of Sierra Leone in building a durable peace in the once war-torn nation. “We’ve come a long way in the United Nations’ ability to help countries and regions resolve, recover from and rebuild after conflict,” Ambassador Susan Rice says.

United States and Belize Implement the Merida Initiative

Janelle Simmons — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:20:56 -0400

The U.S. Department of State releases a statement on the implementation of the Merida Initiative by the United States and Belize.

Analysis of Mumbai Terrorist Attack Shows Strategic Planning

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:55:33 -0400

Those behind the terrorist attack in Mumbai, India, in November 2008 demonstrated a significant level of strategic thought that makes their group particularly dangerous, according to a recent study by the RAND Corporation, a public policy research organization.

U.S. Special Representative Begins Consultations in Pakistan

David McKeeby — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 16:21:23 -0400

Veteran U.S. peacemaker Richard Holbrooke launches talks with Pakistani leaders in Islamabad on ways to work together more effectively to strengthen security and promote new economic opportunities. “I am here to listen and learn the ground realities in this critically important country,” Holbrooke says.

Analysis: Afghanistan Needs the World’s Help

David McKeeby — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 16:05:22 -0400

The world cannot afford to abandon the people of Afghanistan, says President Obama, who is calling for an intensified global effort to eliminate terrorist safe havens and help its people rebuild their shattered nation after decades of conflict. “This is going to be a big challenge,” he said.

Obama Says U.S. Talks with Iran Must Be Built on Mutual Respect

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 17:10:41 -0400

Future relations between the United States and Iran will depend significantly on the willingness of Iranian officials to set aside years of mistrust for cooperation, President Obama says. “Its actions over many years now have been unhelpful when it comes to promoting peace and prosperity.”

Time to Revisit Relations with Russia, Biden Says

David McKeeby — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 09:29:57 -0400

The Obama administration will rebuild U.S.-Russian relations, says Vice President Biden, pledging improved cooperation on challenges shared by Washington and Moscow. “It is time to press the reset button and to revisit the many areas where we can and should be working together with Russia,” Biden says.

Biden Says Finding Lasting Mideast Peace Requires Collaboration

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 14:39:07 -0400

Vice President Biden tells a security policy conference in Munich that it will take close collaboration among Arab and European partners and the United States to find a resolution to the vexing challenges of creating a lasting Middle East peace.

Biden Lays Out U.S. Foreign Policy Goals, Approaches

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 18:49:59 -0400

Vice President Biden says the United States will be guided in its foreign relations by the principle that there is no conflict between its security and its ideals. He also said the international community must “listen to and learn from one another, and to work together for a common prosperity and security of all.”

U.S. Opposes Russian Military Bases in Abkhazia, South Ossetia

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 12:40:43 -0400

Russian efforts to establish three military bases in the Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions of Georgia could prove provocative and destabilizing, U.S. Charge d'Affaires Kyle Scott says at a meeting of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.

Clinton To Make First Foreign Mission to East Asia

Merle David Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 16:40:24 -0400

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton will address a broad range of issues, from economics to climate change, during an eight-day, four-nation trip through East Asia, a State Department official says.

U.S.-European Partnership Securing Kosovo’s Future

David McKeeby — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 15:53:22 -0400

As Kosovo nears the first anniversary of its independence, America and its European allies remain firmly committed to the new Balkan nation’s success, U.S. diplomat Kyle Scott tells the 56-nation Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.

Nations Pledge Unity in Containing Iran’s Nuclear Challenge

David McKeeby — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 12:43:53 -0400

Top diplomats pledge continued unity in efforts to convince Iran to suspend its nuclear program and welcome President Obama’s willingness to engage with Iran. Diplomats from China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, the United States and Germany underline their “common commitment to a diplomatic solution” to Iran’s nuclear challenge.

Special Representative Departs for Afghanistan, Pakistan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 15:43:38 -0400

The new U.S. special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan is making his first visit to the region to begin consultations, a State Department spokesman says. After a stop in London and attendance at a conference in Germany, Ambassador Richard Holbrooke will depart for Pakistan, Afghanistan and India.

Clinton, European Partners Set Common Agenda

Jaroslaw Anders — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 13:00:45 -0400

Secretary of State Clinton discusses Afghanistan, Iran and the Middle East with key European partners. Pakistan and relations with Russia are also on the agenda.

Iranian Satellite Launch Heightens International Nuclear Concerns

David McKeeby — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 13:06:28 -0400

An Iranian satellite launch underlines international concerns about its nuclear ambitions as top diplomats prepare to meet in Germany to discuss new ways to convince Tehran to suspend its controversial nuclear program and join the United States at the negotiating table.

U.S. Gravely Concerned About Escalating Violence in Darfur

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 16:31:01 -0400

The United States expresses “grave concern” about recent bombing raids in the southern Darfur town of Muhajiriya, in Sudan, and ongoing fighting between Sudanese government forces and rebels. The U.N. Security Council held a closed-door meeting on Darfur and other regional issues February 3.

Special Envoy Mitchell to Return to Middle East This Month

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:36:52 -0400

Middle East special envoy George Mitchell is to begin what will become high-level engagement by the United States in trying to end the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, says Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, after Mitchell briefs her on his just-concluded trip to the region.

Military Recruiting Numbers Climb in Weak Economy

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 16:13:22 -0400

Military recruiters always face a challenge, but the current economic downturn is making their lives easier. The Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines have recruited more candidates in early 2009 than at the end of 2008 and retention numbers are holding up well, too.

Gaza Truce Remains Fragile, Say U.S. Officials

David McKeeby — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 16:59:43 -0400

As President Obama’s Middle East envoy completes his first round of regional consultations, continued violence along the Gaza Strip’s border with Israel threatens international peacemaking efforts, says State Department acting spokesman Robert Wood.

U.S. Envoy Expresses Concern for Loss of Palestinian Lives

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 13:56:06 -0400

The United States is concerned about the loss of Palestinian lives and humanitarian needs in the Gaza Strip in the aftermath of a 22-day conflict between Israeli and Hamas forces, U.S. Middle East special envoy George Mitchell says.

U.S. Calls on Madagascar’s Leaders, People to Avoid More Violence

Amor Safi — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:14:22 -0400

The State Department releases a statement on the recent political violence in Madagascar.

Analysis: Will Iran Accept America’s “Open Hand”?

David McKeeby — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 09:30:10 -0400

Can President Obama bring change to nearly 30 years of strained ties between Iran and the United S tates? “If countries like Iran are willing to unclench their fist, they will find an extended hand from us,” Obama tells satellite channel al-Arabiya January 27.

Middle East Envoy Calls for Strengthened Gaza Cease-Fire

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 14:45:02 -0400

A lasting Gaza cease-fire must be based on an end to arms smuggling to Hamas and a reopening of blockaded borders, says George Mitchell, U.S. special envoy for Mideast peace. “It is of critical importance that the cease-fire be extended and consolidated, and we support Egypt's continuing efforts in that regard,” he says.

Obama Pledges New American Partnership in Middle East

David McKeeby — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 17:16:20 -0400

President Obama tells al-Arabiya the United States seeks a new relationship with the Middle East and broader Muslim world that is firmly rooted in “mutual respect and mutual interests.” Issues such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or the situation in Iran require cooperation at many levels to resolve, he says.

Defense Secretary Gates Says Afghanistan Is Significant Challenge

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 16:14:01 -0400

President Obama considers Afghanistan the “greatest military challenge” facing the United States as it works against an aggressive Taliban insurgency to bring peace and security, Defense Secretary Robert Gates says in his first congressional appearance since the Obama administration took charge.

American Envoy Pledges Renewed Commitment to United Nations

David McKeeby — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 18:13:08 -0400

The United States is committed to helping strengthen the United Nations so it can meet a host of emerging challenges, says America’s new ambassador to the international body, Susan Rice.

President Sends Special Envoy Mitchell to Middle East

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 15:49:35 -0400

One of the key missions of Middle East special envoy George Mitchell's trip to the region will be to consolidate the cease-fire after the three-week-old Gaza conflict, a State Department spokesman says, and to ensure progress toward Middle East peace.

Analysis: Obama Offers New Approach to Counterterrorism

David McKeeby — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 17:11:03 -0400

President Obama plans to continue building robust global partnerships to confront terrorism, but he has already signaled in his first days in office a new American approach to facing extremist violence. “America's moral example must be the bedrock and the beacon of our global leadership.”

New Navy Task Force Takes Aim at Pirates

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:49:59 -0400

The U.S. Navy is leading a new multinational task force to deter pirate attacks against commercial shipping vessels off the coast of East Africa. But deterring attacks also means removing the incentives for pirate activities, and that means prosecuting suspected pirates in court.

U.S. Foreign Policy Shifts with Lightning-like Speed

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 15:03:11 -0400

President Obama, with near lightning speed, has altered the course of U.S. foreign policy less than 48 hours after taking office by making clear that the country’s goals and objectives will be consistent with American values and the rule of law.

U.S. Sending Agriculture Development Teams to Afghanistan

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 11:45:01 -0400

The United States is sending teams of U.S. Army National Guardsmen to Afghanistan to enhance security, but also to enhance the country's agricultural economy, senior Pentagon officials say. Agriculture makes up 80 percent of the Afghan economy, and 85 percent of the population works in it.

Obama Names Special Envoys for Middle East, Afghanistan-Pakistan

David McKeeby — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 19:35:35 -0400

President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton announce former Senator George Mitchell as special envoy for Middle East peace and Ambassador Richard Holbrooke as special envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan — moves that underscore the commitment to renewing American leadership through reinvigorated diplomacy.

Obama Orders Guantánamo Shut Down

David McKeeby — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:51:30 -0400

President Obama issues orders closing the detention center at the Guantánamo Bay U.S. naval base in Cuba within a year and placing new restrictions on interrogation of terrorism suspects. The United States will fight terrorism “in a manner that is consistent with our ideals,” Obama says.

Obama Pledges “Active Engagement” on Middle East Peace

David McKeeby — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:41:45 -0400

President Obama reaches out to Middle East leaders to emphasize that progress toward peace in the region will be among his administration’s top foreign policy priorities. Obama tells them the United States will work to consolidate the fragile cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Obama Asks for 120-Day Delay for Guantánamo Trial System

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:59:06 -0400

At the request of President Obama, trial proceedings of detainees at the detention center at the Guantánamo Bay U.S. naval base in Cuba have been suspended until May 20, a Pentagon official says. The facility currently holds approximately 245 detainees captured in Afghanistan, Iraq and other places.

North Korean, Iranian Nuclear Efforts Pose Early Test for Obama

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 10:41:17 -0400

Panelists at a Washington conference urge the Obama administration to deal swiftly with the nuclear proliferation threat posed by Iran and North Korea. They also urge the United States to take a leadership role in strengthening the International Atomic Energy Agency and shoring up the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

United States, Israel Working to End Arms Smuggling into Gaza

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 16:06:21 -0400

The United States and Israel have reached agreement on security measures that will eventually help bring a durable cease-fire to the Gaza crisis, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says. The agreement includes provisions for monitors to help stem arms and explosives smuggling into Gaza.

United States, United Arab Emirates Sign Civil Nuclear Accord

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 12:38:23 -0400

The United Arab Emirates chose to import nuclear fuel for its reactors to produce electric energy rather than develop expensive and proliferation-sensitive uranium enrichment and reprocessing, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. “This is a powerful and timely model for the world and the region.”

U.N. Forms Group to Coordinate Actions Against Maritime Piracy

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 10:42:01 -0400

Twenty-four nations and five international organizations formed a group at the United Nations to strengthen efforts to thwart piracy off the coast of Somalia. The Contact Group on Piracy Off the Coast of Somalia pledges to report on its actions regularly to the U.N. Security Council.

United States Begins Moving Peacekeeping Equipment to Darfur

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 10:12:47 -0400

The U.S. Air Force has begun airlifting Rwandan peacekeeping equipment and supplies from Kigali to the Darfur region of Sudan as part of the U.N.-African Union peacekeeping mission. Two airlift missions were completed January 14, the U.S. Africa Command headquarters says.

U.N. Ambassador-designate Urges Cooperation Against Autocrats

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 17:46:45 -0400

Susan Rice, President-elect Barack Obama’s choice for U.S. representative to the United Nations, tells a Senate panel she plans to use effective and “sometimes quiet” diplomacy to seek support for international action against autocrats like the rulers of Zimbabwe and Burma and other human rights abusers.

Hillary Clinton Outlines Obama’s Africa Policy

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 16:19:23 -0400

In her Senate confirmation hearing, Secretary of State–designate Hillary Clinton outlines the next administration’s goals for engaging Africa. “The Obama administration recognizes that even when we cannot fully agree with some governments, we share a bond of humanity with their people,” she says.

Bush Legacy in Africa Is Comprehensive Partnership

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 16:19:54 -0400

The State Department’s top Africa official, Jendayi Frazer, says U.S. policy for the past eight years has been based on a “very solid, comprehensive and holistic” foundation of partnership that has improved the health and lives of Africans. In an interview, Frazer looks at the Bush administration legacy in Africa.

Hillary Clinton, Senators Seek U.S.-Russia Effort on Arms Control

Jonathan Schaffer — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 17:33:46 -0400

If confirmed by the Senate, Secretary of State-designate Hillary Rodham Clinton says she will work with Russia to extend a nuclear arms agreement set to expire later this year. Two key lawmakers urge the secretary of state nominee to re-engage with Russia on arms control and other issues.

Counterterrorism Should Top Obama Security Agenda, Bush Says

David McKeeby — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 18:44:51 -0400

Preventing terrorists from staging another attack on American soil may be the most urgent security challenge facing President-elect Barack Obama, says President Bush. “I wish him all the best. The stakes are high,” Bush says in his farewell press conference as president.

Presidential Transition Offers Opportunity to Build Bridges

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:26:16 -0400

Wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, relations with Iran and Pakistan and North Korean nuclear disarmament will dominate the new Obama administration’s early foreign-policy focus. But the global issues of proliferation, climate change and food security will compete for the new president’s attention.

U.S., Georgia Sign Blueprint for Military, Economic Cooperation

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:35:58 -0400

The United States and Georgia expand their cooperation in defense, trade, energy security, democratic institutions and cultural exchanges. “Georgia is a very important partner of the United States, a valued partner,” Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says.

U.S. Supports Egyptian Mediation Efforts between Israel, Hamas

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 15:20:26 -0400

The United States supports Egyptian mediation efforts to end the current crisis between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, and also supports a U.N. Security Council resolution calling for a cease-fire in the conflict. The Security Council voted January 8 for the cease-fire resolution.

United States Welcomes Gaza Cease-Fire Proposal

David McKeeby — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 18:00:31 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice joins Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and members of the Arab League in welcoming a new cease-fire proposal aimed at defusing the conflict between Hamas militants and Israel in the Gaza Strip.

United States Proposes Three Elements in a Gaza Cease-Fire Plan

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 13:19:36 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is working on three elements of a plan that could lead to a “sustainable, durable cease-fire” between the Israelis and Hamas in the Gaza Strip, a State Department spokesman says.

World Must Stay Engaged to Stop Gaza Violence, U.S. Says

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 14:12:50 -0400

U.S. leaders are reaching out to their counterparts in the Middle East and elsewhere in the international community in their efforts to achieve a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. The United States and the international community are not daunted by the task of bringing a halt to the violence.

United States Providing $5 Million to Somalia Security Force

Michelle Austein Brooks — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 12:48:41 -0400

The United States will provide $5 million to support the formation of a joint security force in Somalia, a State Department spokesman says. The announcement comes on the same day Abdullahi Yusuf announces his resignation after four years as president of the Transitional Federal Government.

Palestinian Refugee Agency to Receive $85 Million in U.S. Aid

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 18:03:43 -0400

The United States announces it is contributing $85 million in humanitarian aid to the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, as Bush administration officials continue calling on Israel and Hamas to agree to a durable cease-fire.

U.S. Working for “Sustainable and Durable” Cease-Fire in Gaza

Stephen Kaufman — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 16:30:43 -0400

Responding to violence in the Middle East, the United States calls on Hamas and Israel to avoid civilian casualties, but says Hamas violated the six-month cease-fire and Israel has a right to protect its citizens. U.S. officials are working actively to create a “sustainable and durable” cease-fire.

United States Eager to Team with China to Deter Pirate Attacks

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 09:04:13 -0400

African nations look to Asia for guidance on pirates. In the Straits of Malacca, pirates were dealt a serious blow through regional efforts. China joins international patrols off Somalia, adding clout there and giving hope for a resumption of U.S.-Chinese military ties.

U.S.-Mexico Talks Aimed at Reducing Drug Trafficking

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:27:11 -0400

The United States and Mexico continue to look for ways to break the power and impunity of drug-trafficking criminals that plague both sides of the border, Secretary of State Rice says. Drug trafficking is a joint problem and a joint responsibility, Rice says at a briefing at the State Department.

United States, Ukraine Sign Security Charter

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 17:03:10 -0400

The United States and Ukraine have signed a security charter that establishes areas of cooperation and reemphasizes NATO membership for Ukraine.

Middle East Peace Process Has Made Progress, Bush Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 16:32:53 -0400

President Bush, after meeting with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Washington, acknowledges that peace negotiations between the Israelis and Palestinians have been “a hard challenge,” but says the talks, though not completed, “have made a good deal of progress.”

Agreement Eludes Russia-Georgia Peace Talks

David McKeeby — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 17:59:13 -0400

Mediators in Geneva made progress, but fell short of an agreement to strengthen security and help refugees return home following the August 2008 conflict over Georgia’s Moscow-backed separatist regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia, says Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried.

Russia, U.S. Negotiators Meet on START Treaty, Missile Defense

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 14:45:28 -0400

While the discussions were useful, Russian and U.S. negotiators did not reach new agreements on either a replacement for the 1991 START I treaty or a proposed European-based U.S. missile defense system, a senior American official says following December 15 talks in Moscow.

Anniversary of U.S.-China Ties Highlights Complex Relationship

David McKeeby — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 12:39:08 -0400

As the United States and China look forward to celebrating 30 years of formal diplomatic ties in 2009, a look back at the past year shows the depth and complexity of their relationship. While they continue to strengthen ties, they also confront a host of shared security and economic challenges.

International Struggle Against Piracy Comes Ashore in Somalia

David McKeeby — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:08:49 -0400

The U.N. Security Council approved a resolution authorizing nations to work with Somalia’s transitional government against pirates operating in its territory. “History has demonstrated again and again that maritime operations alone are insufficient to combating piracy,” says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

U.S. Launched Deliberate, Comprehensive Plan Against Terrorism

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:52:20 -0400

The United States confronted a threat from global terrorists in 2001 unlike any previous threat faced by the nation, President Bush says. In response, the country launched “a deliberate and comprehensive approach” to thwart global terrorism and enhance the security of the U.S. homeland.

Arab States Share International Concerns About Nuclear Iran

David McKeeby — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 18:19:43 -0400

Iran’s neighbors share the international community’s growing concerns about the country’s controversial nuclear ambitions, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, adding that Tehran’s refusal to join negotiations continues to deepen Iran’s isolation. “The Iranians are paying real costs,” she says.

Annapolis Process for Mideast Peace Garners Strong Support

David McKeeby — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:15:45 -0400

Palestinian and Israeli negotiators have made considerable progress since restarting peace talks at the Annapolis Conference in 2007, says Secretary of State Rice, who joins partners from the United Nations, the European Union and Russia to urged both sides to redouble their efforts for a two-state solution.

Bush Makes Surprise Farewell Visits to Iraq, Afghanistan

David McKeeby — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 17:56:30 -0400

President Bush welcomes progress in Iraq and Afghanistan in a surprise farewell visit to the region and underlines America’s enduring commitment to the success of both emerging democracies under his successor. “I am of a different political party than President-elect Obama. But I want him to succeed,” he says.

Monitoring Mission Can Play Key Role in Georgia Dispute

David McKeeby — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 16:14:21 -0400

The 56-nation Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) has a key role to play in resolving the conflict over Georgia’s Russian-backed breakaway regions, U.S. diplomats say. “This is a moment of truth for the organization and we should act,” says U.S. official Kyle Scott.

Senate Report Examines Detainee Abuses

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 16:20:17 -0400

A U.S. congressional report indicates that abuse of detainees in Iraq, Afghanistan and at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, has compromised the moral authority and credibility of the United States in thwarting global terrorism.

Six-Party Talks Stall as North Korea Refuses to Sign Agreement

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:28:08 -0400

The United States and other members of the Six-Party Talks on eliminating nuclear weapons from the Korean Peninsula are reassessing the arms control negotiations with North Korea after it refused to verify its past nuclear activities in a written agreement offered by the Chinese, the White House says.

Blackwater Indictments Show America’s Commitment to Rule of Law

David McKeeby — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 08:33:22 -0400

The Justice Department brings criminal charges against five American private security contractors following a 2007 incident in Baghdad. “Those who engage in unprovoked and illegal attacks on civilians, whether during times of conflict or times of peace, will be held accountable,” says a Justice Department official.

International Community Focuses on Combating Piracy

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:45:10 -0400

Piracy on the high seas is a crime of opportunity involving hijacking, hostages, ransoms and payoffs. This crime has captured the attention of numerous foreign and defense ministries around the world. They are seeking remedies in the short term while also addressing root causes.

Manama Security Conference to Focus on Regional Issues

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 17:56:24 -0400

The main focus of the annual Manama Dialogue regional security conference in Bahrain will be on the regional balance of power, economic security, the role of the United States in the region and the changing security architecture, conference planners say.

Successes Against Terrorism Are Slow, Uneven, Bush Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:49:49 -0400

The results of efforts by the United States to thwart global terrorism are unfolding slowly and unevenly, but there are encouraging signs, President Bush says. And in confronting terrorism, Bush says, the United States also transformed its national security strategy and its armed forces.

United States Hails Iraqi Ratification of Security Pact

David McKeeby — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 09:28:39 -0400

The Iraqi government ratifies a U.S.-Iraqi security agreement calling for a full withdrawal of American forces from the country by the end of 2011, along with a companion agreement shaping the future of relations between Washington and Baghdad. The accord will go into force by January 1, 2009.

Pakistan Committed to Confronting Terrorism, Rice Says

David McKeeby — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 17:54:57 -0400

South Asia and the international community face a common enemy in terrorism, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says following talks in Pakistan, where officials pledge full cooperation with the probe into the recent attack on India’s financial and entertainment capital, Mumbai.

Rice Urges India-Pakistan Cooperation in Mumbai Attack Probe

David McKeeby — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:56:27 -0400

The terrorist strike on India’s financial capital, Mumbai, underscores the importance of building strong international counterterrorism partnerships to bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent future attacks, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Biological Terrorism Threat Is Increasing, Report Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 13:49:20 -0400

A new congressionally mandated report says the threat from a terrorist attack using a biological, nuclear or other unconventional weapon is quite real and could happen within the next five years. The report says terrorists are more likely to obtain and use a biological weapon than a nuclear weapon.

United States Backs Gradual Resumption of NATO-Russia Relations

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 14:42:53 -0400

The United States has no objection to a gradual, phased re-engagement between NATO and Russia, a relationship that had been suspended since the Russian-Georgia crisis in August, says Secretary of State Rice. Rice makes her comments in Brussels, Belgium, where NATO foreign ministers were meeting.

Joint Action Urged to Bring India Terrorists to Justice

David McKeeby — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 18:01:24 -0400

President Bush sends Secretary of State Rice to New Delhi, India, where she will offer America’s condolences in the wake of a devastating three-day terrorist attack in Mumbai and urge close cooperation with neighboring Pakistan’s new civilian government to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Envoy Schulte on Nonproliferation Safeguards Agreements in Syria

Amor Safi — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 16:08:37 -0400

Ambassador Gregory L. Schulte, permanent U.S. representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), delivers remarks at the IAEA Board of Governors meeting in Vienna on Syria.

Georgia and Ukraine in NATO Is Long-Term Goal, Says State’s Fried

David McKeeby — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 14:45:48 -0400

Leaders of the 26-nation NATO alliance have already agreed that Georgia and Ukraine will be members, says Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried, calling on the trans-Atlantic body to use an upcoming meeting in Brussels, BHelgium, to redouble support for long-term reforms in both emerging democracies.

U.S. Government Texts and Transcripts

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:22:33 -0400

This document lists official texts and transcripts related to Georgia.

State’s Glassman Calls Colombia a Leader on Fighting Terrorism

Amor Safi — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 11:05:02 -0400

James K. Glassman, under secretary for public diplomacy and public affairs at the Department of State, comments on Colombia’s success in fighting terrorism.

Afghan Army Becoming More Effective Force, U.S. General Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 17:14:42 -0400

The Afghan National Army now leads about 60 percent of the operations it conducts and is proving to be an effective fighting force that substantially enhances the security of Afghanistan, a senior U.S. general says. A police retraining program is also improving the situation in Afghanistan.

American Family Appeals to Iran for Answers on Missing Man

David McKeeby — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 17:34:08 -0400

As Americans look forward to celebrating the holidays with their loved ones, a Florida family struggles for answers about the whereabouts of one of their own — Robert Levinson, an American businessman whose March 2007 disappearance in Iran remains shrouded in mystery.

Russia’s Path: Boom or Bust

Jaroslaw Anders — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:53:31 -0400

Russia has the potential to be richer, more powerful, and more self-assured in 2025 if it invests in human capital, expands and diversifies its economy, and integrates with global markets, says a recently published U.S. report. On the other hand, multiple constraints could limit Russia’s ability to achieve its full economic potential.

Europe: Losing Clout in 2025

Jaroslaw Anders — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 11:45:04 -0400

Europe by 2025 will have made slow progress toward becoming a cohesive, integrated and influential global actor able to employ a full spectrum of tools in support of European and Western interests and universal ideals, according to a recently published U.S. report.

Ambassador Schulte Remarks on U.N. Agency Probe of Iran, Syria

Amor Safi — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:09:14 -0400

Ambassador Gregory L. Schulte, permanent U.S. representative to the IAEA in Vienna, delivers remarks on Director General Mohamed ElBaradei’s report on the IAEA’s investigation of Iran and Syria.

World’s Best Thinkers Predict Resource Scarcity in 2025

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 17:27:34 -0400

In 25 years, the world will likely face greater shortages of water for drinking and farming, insufficient food and competition for energy. The world, as a group of thinkers imagines it, will be multipolar. No nation will dominate with overwhelming power; instead, multiple nations will wield great power.

U.S. Intelligence Chief Outlines Successes Against Terrorism

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 16:18:15 -0400

U.S. partners in the war against terrorism, including Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, the Philippines and Pakistan, have made progress against al-Qaida and its affiliates. CIA Director Michael Hayden outlines counterterrorism priorities and cites the importance of the war of ideas as part of the greater struggle.

U.S. Envoys Report Progress in Russia-Georgia Peace Talks

David McKeeby — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:55:50 -0400

Mediators in Geneva have restarted Russia-Georgia peace talks, says Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried, who urges sending more international monitors to the region to strengthen security and help refugees return following the August 2008 conflict over the separatist regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

Bush Calls Qadhafi to Praise Settlement Agreement

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 11:46:52 -0400

A telephone call between President Bush and a world leader is a common enough event to not merit much attention, but when the president called Libyan leader Muammar Qadhafi November 17 it represents a remarkable turnaround in U.S.-Libyan relations.

Palestinian Youth Center Shows U.S. Commitment to Mideast Peace

David McKeeby — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 10:20:28 -0400

The U.S.-Palestinian Partnership is helping prepare a new generation of leaders essential to the successful creation of a Palestinian state, an undertaking that the State Department’s James Glassman says shows “the solid and continuing commitment of the United States government to the Palestinian people.”

Iraqi Cabinet Approves Security Pact with United States

David McKeeby — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 16:52:52 -0400

The Iraqi Cabinet approves a new U.S.-Iraqi security agreement calling for a full withdrawal of American forces by the end of 2011. In addition to the withdrawal date, the agreement would place new limits on U.S. forces operating in Iraq. The agreement now moves on to Iraq’s parliament for approval.

Bush Reflects on the Progress He Has Seen in Africa

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 09:50:49 -0400

President Bush says that among the most powerful experiences of his presidency is witnessing a new and more hopeful era dawning in Africa. “Over the past eight years, it’s been moving to watch courageous Africans root out corruption, and open up their economies, and invest in the prosperity of their people,” he says.

Rice Encourages Support for Israeli-Palestinian Peace Process

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 14:07:17 -0400

Palestinian and Israeli negotiators have pledged to continue peace talks begun at the November 2007 Annapolis Conference, and the international community fully supports their work. “The American people want to see the Palestinian people living in their own state,” Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says.

New U.S. Command Fulfills Requests Made by African Leaders

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 11:13:09 -0400

The new U.S. military command for Africa will remain headquartered in Germany for the foreseeable future as it partners with Africans to address the persistent challenges of the continent. Security reform is key to AFRICOM’s success because security is a precondition to successful economic development.

Rice Says Israeli-Palestinian Peace Is in U.S. Interests

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 16:27:27 -0400

The Palestinians and Israelis have demonstrated a brave commitment to substantive talks in an effort to reach a comprehensive peace settlement, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. “The United States will continue to support and facilitate the efforts of the parties to reach a lasting peace.”

Some American Forces Leave Iraq Ahead of Schedule

David McKeeby — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 18:28:17 -0400

Dramatically decreasing violence in Iraq will allow the U.S. military to reduce troop levels faster than expected, says White House spokeswoman Dana Perino. “Iraqi security forces are growing in strength and numbers and competence and confidence every day,” Perino told reporters November 6.

Rice Encourages Support for Middle East Peace Talks

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 14:52:54 -0400

The Israelis and Palestinians must maintain the momentum achieved a year ago in trying to reach a peace accord and the eventual establishment of a Palestinian state, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice during her eighth trip to the region.

United States Extends Condolences for Mexican Interior Secretary

David McKeeby — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 18:01:25 -0400

The United States offers condolences following the death of Mexican Interior Secretary Juan Camilo Mouriño Terrazo, a key figure in efforts to bring Mexico’s violent drug cartels to justice. A government-operated jet carrying Mouriño and seven colleagues crashed into a Mexico City neighborhood November 4, killing all passengers.

United States Disappointed by Russian Missile Plans

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 17:35:18 -0400

The United States is disappointed that Russia plans to deploy short-range missiles near the border with Poland and Lithuania, a State Department official says. Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said Russia plans to deploy Iskander missiles in Kaliningrad between Lithuania and Poland on the Baltic Sea.

United States Not Involved in Any Taliban Negotiations

David McKeeby — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 16:02:56 -0400

The United States supports efforts by Afghanistan’s government to reach out to militants willing to lay down their arms, but has no plans to negotiate with the Taliban, says Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher. “We have been and continue to be willing to support those policies,” Boucher said.

Piracy Off the Horn of Africa Threatens Relief Efforts, Trade

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 18:16:04 -0400

Piracy poses a global problem when it interrupts humanitarian relief operations and trade. It is also linked to criminal networks. Ships and aircraft from the United States, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the European Union are looking for ways to stem the threat.

U.S. Welcomes Russian Initiative on Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

David McKeeby — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:17:49 -0400

The United States welcomes reports that Russian President Dmitry Medvedev will host peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region as a more constructive approach to the region’s “frozen conflicts” than Moscow’s actions in the August 2008 Georgia crisis.

United States Condemns Renewed Conflict in Congo

David McKeeby — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:04:29 -0400

As thousands flee a new outbreak of violence in the eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the United States urges government and opposition forces to stand down and underlines America’s support for United Nations peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts.

Bush Expresses Confidence on U.S.-Iraq Troops Pact

David McKeeby — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 11:16:38 -0400

President Bush says he remains confident that a Status of Forces Agreement defining the future of U.S. military cooperation with Iraqi security forces will be passed, while policymakers see Baghdad’s proposed changes to the plan as further sign of political progress in Iraq.

United Nations Urges Transparency from Iran’s Nuclear Program

David McKeeby — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:51:23 -0400

If Iran’s nuclear program is peaceful as claimed, the United Nations’ nuclear guardian asks, why does Tehran refuse to answer questions about undeclared nuclear materials and research into nuclear weapons design? International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Mohamed ElBaradei wants to know.

Peace and Security Resources

Amor Safi — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 10:03:09 -0400

Palestinian, U.S. Business Leaders Working on Joint Ventures

Afzal Khan — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:31:22 -0400

The United States and the Palestinian Authority are working to create new business partnerships to attract investment and create jobs in the Palestinian Territories. Toward this goal, the U.S.-Palestinian Partnership and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce sponsor a Palestinian business forum in Washington.

Alleged Opium Kingpin Charged With Financing Taliban

David McKeeby — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 17:27:49 -0400

The arrest of an alleged Taliban-linked drug kingpin marks another step forward in international efforts to break linkages between opium traffickers and violent militants that threaten Afghanistan’s future, say top U.S. officials. Meanwhile, opium poppy cultivation is down by 22 percent.

Direct U.S.-Liberia Flights to Begin in 2009

Charles W. Corey — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 15:15:58 -0400

Travel between the United States and Liberia will be faster and easier thanks to a new direct flight that soon will be operating between both countries. Delta Air Lines and Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf announced the direct flight during her recent trip to the United States.

Bush, NATO Secretary-General Address Pressing Issues

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 20:16:06 -0400

NATO foreign ministers will meet in Brussels in December on the alliance’s relationship with Russia, the mission in Afghanistan and the readiness of Georgia and Ukraine to join the membership process. Albania and Croatia move closer to NATO membership as President Bush signs accession protocols October 24.

Rice Discusses Changes Across the Middle East

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 16:32:06 -0400

The Middle East is a very different place today, but it’s a different place for the better, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. In recent wide-ranging news interviews, Rice says democracy now is widely discussed across the Middle East in a way it had not been before.

United States Leads Surge of Donors Rebuilding Georgia

David McKeeby — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 17:15:27 -0400

The United States joins 67 nations, international financial institutions and private-sector donors to deliver $4.55 billion for Georgia. “We share a commitment to Georgia’s territorial integrity,” USAID Administrator Henrietta Fore tells a European Union-sponsored donors’ conference in Brussels, Belgium.

United States Focuses on Corruption-Terrorism Connection

Andrzej Zwaniecki — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:58:15 -0400

International terrorism and transnational crimes such as arms smuggling mostly have been viewed as separate threats. But evidence is growing that they are converging, particular in countries where corruption is rife. Analysts urge a response combining anti-corruption, counterterrorist and anti-crime measures.

Good U.S.-Liberian Relations Help Liberia Build Its Future

Charles W. Corey — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 15:16:00 -0400

Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf holds talks with President Bush at the White House October 22 to review that country’s progress, talk about its future and discuss bilateral relations, which are “as good as they can get,” says U.S. Ambassador to Liberia Linda Thomas-Greenfield.

U.S. Emphasizes the Need for International Space Cooperation

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 10:22:06 -0400

U.S. outer space policy has been consistent through administrations. It opposes arms control proposals and legally binding regimes that impose prohibitions on space use for military or intelligence purposes or fail to preserve U.S. rights to conduct research, testing and operations for civil or commercial purposes.

Russian Overtures to Venezuela Not a Threat, U.S. Official Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 16:27:32 -0400

The United States does not regard increasingly friendly relations between Russia and Venezuela as an emerging security threat, U.S. officials say, but each country is pursuing different interests and different agendas, making their relationship unstable and not likely to be enduring.

Persistent Conflicts Require Communal Approach to Stability

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 13:44:15 -0400

The Army reached out to a broad international constituency, including the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross, to rewrite its manual for post-conflict operations. Navigating the road to peace requires cooperation between military and civilian efforts, according to its authors.

Seven Nations to Join U.S. Visa Waiver Program

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:16:49 -0400

Business travelers and tourists from six European nations and South Korea will be able to travel to the United States without a visa in about a month, President Bush says. The Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia and South Korea will join the U.S. Visa Waiver Program on November 13.

Geneva Talks Seek Stability, Security in Georgia, U.S. Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 15:15:31 -0400

The United States welcomes international talks on security and stability in Georgia and its two breakaway regions, a senior U.S. diplomat says. “These talks underscore the broad international support with, of course, one exception, for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Georgia.”

U.S. Removes North Korea from State Sponsors of Terrorism List

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:34:42 -0400

The United States removed North Korea from its list of state sponsors of terrorism after the North Korean government agreed to resume dismantling a plutonium processing plant at Yongbyon and to allow international inspectors. But North Korea still remains subject to numerous other sanctions.

U.S.-India Nuclear Agreement Strengthens Partnership, Rice Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 18:12:24 -0400

The United States and India sign an agreement that allows for the sale of nuclear technology, enhanced nonproliferation safeguards and a strengthened partnership. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Indian Foreign Minister Pranab Mukherjee sign the agreement October 10 in Washington.

NATO Ministers Endorse Greater Anti-Drug Role in Afghanistan

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:27:13 -0400

NATO defense ministers concluded informal talks in Hungary October 10 with a new commitment to pursue the Afghan drug traffickers that fund insurgents. Allied maritime forces will also soon escort food shipments to Somalia and patrol international waters off the Horn of Africa to deter pirates.

Russian Claims of Privileged Sphere Draw Criticism

Howard Cincotta — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:49:38 -0400

Legal scholars express deep skepticism about Russia’s claim of extraterritorial right to protect its citizens. The principle of national sovereignty does not allow nations to grant citizenship “en masse” to citizens of another country without that state’s explicit consent, says one political scientist.

State Department’s Africa Bureau Celebrates 50th Anniversary

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:29:41 -0400

In celebrating the 50th anniversary of the State Department's Africa Bureau, Africans and Americans should look back at its history but also look forward to build upon the engagement, excellence and, at times, sheer persistence that have defined its work for the past 50 years, a senior U.S. official says.

United States Committed to NATO Membership for Ukraine, Georgia

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:27:36 -0400

The United States remains committed to NATO membership for Ukraine and Georgia, and it calls on southeastern European nations to send more troops to Afghanistan. Membership plans for Ukraine and Georgia will be discussed at the NATO foreign ministers meeting in December, as will membership for Macedonia.

Defeating Terrorism Requires Common Goal, Strategic Effort

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 16:16:02 -0400

No cause can justify or excuse the murder of innocent people, which makes the struggle against terrorism a fight for values and principles that are universal, says Ambassador Dell Dailey, the U.S. State Department’s coordinator for counterterrorism.

Regional Cooperation Focus of Macedonia Meeting

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 12:38:43 -0400

Macedonia is hosting 12 nations and two observers for the Southeast European Defense Ministerial October 7-9. U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates will attend the gathering before traveling to Budapest, Hungary, to meet informally with NATO defense ministers October 9-10 on Russia, Georgia and Afghanistan.

Palestinian and Israeli Teens Learn About Teamwork, Each Other

Julie Hyman — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 18:08:16 -0400

America.gov talks to six Palestinian and Israeli teenagers sailing together off the coast of Massachusetts in a project sponsored by the Northeast Maritime Institute and supported by the State Department. Participants agree that interactions like this one are a positive step toward peace in the Middle East.

Rice Says United States Seeks Closer Ties with Kazakhstan

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 16:36:16 -0400

The United States is trying to build closer ties with Kazakhstan, but that is not intended to undermine Russian influence in Central Asia, Secretary of State Rice says. Rice says an expanded relationship with Kazakhstan does not imply a zero-sum game, meaning that any U.S. gains in the friendship need not mean Russian losses.

U.S. Military Aid to Georgia Was Never Directed at Russia

Howard Cincotta — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 15:06:39 -0400

U.S. military assistance to Georgia in the five years before the Russian invasion was never a threat to Russian security interests, says a leading defense specialist. It sought to address needs along the violent Pankisi Gorge bordering Chechnya and to prepare units for service with coalition forces in Iraq.

Conflict Prevention Will Be Key for New Africa Command

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 19:33:05 -0400

Preventing drug trafficking, terrorism and conflict will be key as the new U.S. Africa Command becomes gradually more active on the continent. At AFRICOM’s launch October 1, Defense Secretary Robert Gates says societal problems and natural disasters can be “as destabilizing as traditional military threats.”

Congress Approves U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Accord

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 12:54:02 -0400

The U.S. Congress approves legislation that will bring India’s nuclear programs under international inspections and enhance trade between the two nations. “I look forward to signing this bill into law and continuing to strengthen the U.S.-India strategic partnership,” President Bush says.

European Union Monitors Enter Security Buffer Zones in Georgia

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:23:53 -0400

The 200-plus European Union civilian monitors begin taking up positions in formerly Russian-held security zones in Georgia as part of an August cease-fire deal between the EU and Russia. A U.S. State Department spokesman says deployment of EU monitors leads to the next step in the Russian withdrawal of forces from Georgia.

NATO Seen as Strengthening Security for All, Including Russia

Howard Cincotta — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 15:29:20 -0400

NATO operations in Afghanistan, Kosovo and the Mediterranean have not been directed at Russia but are intended to create a Europe that is more secure, democratic and free than at any time in its history. This benefits, rather than threatens, neighboring Russia by enabling more cooperation on mutual concerns.

Ambassador Hill Going to North Korea for Discussions

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 14:38:45 -0400

Assistant Secretary Christopher Hill will be traveling to Asia to discuss North Korea’s plans to restart its nuclear weapons development facility at Yongbyon. The United States is “very concerned about some of the reversal of disablement activities,” deputy State Department spokesman Robert Wood says.

U.N. Security Council Calls on Iran to Comply on Nuclear Program

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 14:27:48 -0400

It is unacceptable for Iran to defy the United Nations over its controversial nuclear weapons development program, says U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Zalmay Khalilzad. The Security Council action follows a September 15 report from the IAEA that said Iran had not suspended uranium enrichment.

Transatlantic Unity on Russia

Jonathan Schaffer — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:59:21 -0400

Russia’s recent aggressive actions call into question the type of relationship it wishes with the global community, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says, noting its international reputation is at its worst since 1991 and actions by Russian leaders are causing pain on their nation’s economy.

U.S.-Africa Chronology

David McKeeby — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:45:39 -0400

This list of significant events chronicles four and a half centuries of U.S.-Africa engagement and half a century of official relations, starting with the year 1565, when several colonists of African descent were part of the oldest permanent European settlement in what would later become the United States.

New U.S. Military Command to Focus Exclusively on Africa

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 17:29:59 -0400

The new Africa Command, headquartered in Germany, will be the sixth geographic command for the United States. It will bring together a unique staff, half civilians and half military officers, to coordinate activities across the continent to promote security, development and democracy.

Mideast Peace Process Continues to Advance, State’s Welch Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:59:04 -0400

Substantial progress has been made and will continue to be made in advancing the Middle East peace process, says Assistant Secretary of State David Welch. The United States has focused on four tracks to advance the Middle East peace process since the November 2007 Annapolis Conference.

U.S.-Afghan Security Dialogue Promotes Security, Prosperity

David McKeeby — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 17:13:36 -0400

The United States is committed to a long-term strategic partnership with Afghanistan, says Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte, and is dedicated to supporting its democratically elected leaders and promoting security and prosperity.

Russia's Use of Kosovo Analogy for Georgia False, Experts Say

Howard Cincotta — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 16:07:05 -0400

U.S. officials and foreign policy specialists virtually all agree that Russia’s attempts to cite Kosovo as a precedent for its military actions in Georgia are both misleading and unsupported by even a cursory examination of the facts. America.gov reviews the comments of a variety of knowledgeable observers.

Trans-Atlantic Unity Stabilizing Situation in Georgia

David McKeeby — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 15:37:29 -0400

On the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice discussed the Georgia crisis with her European counterparts, who reaffirmed their commitment to support Georgia’s recovery and ensure Russia honors its cease-fire commitments, says Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried.

Natural Resources Should Benefit All Africans, Says Official

David McKeeby — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 12:00:35 -0400

The United States is helping African countries use their natural resources more wisely and leverage their wealth into strong economies and strong states for the benefit of all of their citizens, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Todd J. Moss tells a Senate subcommittee.

United States Says Talks Will Resume on North Korea

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 18:18:44 -0400

International efforts to convince the North Koreans to give up their fledgling nuclear weapons development program have hit a rough spot, but there is still time to work this issue, says chief U.S. negotiator Christopher Hill. “We're really going to have to work very closely with our other partners,” he says.

World Must Stand Against Terrorism, Bush Says

David McKeeby — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:15:45 -0400

The international community must redouble efforts against terrorism by supporting emerging democracies, alleviating poverty and continuing progress toward the United Nations Charter’s global vision of peace and security, says President Bush in his eighth and final address to the U.N. General Assembly.

Enhancing Afghan Security Forces Seen as Significant Challenge

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:31:07 -0400

The most significant challenge facing the United States and its allies in Afghanistan is increasing the competence and reliability of the Afghan security forces, says U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates. Gates says the United States must encourage Afghanistan and Pakistan to work together to secure their mountainous border.

United States Expresses Support for Pakistan After Bombing

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:55:22 -0400

President Bush meets with Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari at the United Nations to discuss the September 20 truck bombing of the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad and review relations between the United States and Pakistan. Expressing condolences from the American people, Bush tells Zardari, “We stand with you.”

U.S.-Colombia Trade Agreement Would Enhance Security

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 16:34:47 -0400

Supporting Colombia's efforts to modernize its security forces, fight terrorists and drug lords, and provide the Colombian people with better lives and enhanced livelihoods is an essential goal of the United States, President Bush says.

List of National Security Biographies

Jacqui Porth — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:10:18 -0400

This document provides biographical information on U.S. officials involved in national security.

Bush Makes Eighth and Final U.N. Appearance

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 19:42:41 -0400

When President Bush steps into the cavernous United Nations General Assembly Hall for his eighth and final time as the leader of the United States, he will take a moment to look back and assess what has been accomplished in the international arena and also look forward to what still needs to be achieved.

NATO Supports Georgia’s Integrity, Unity Against Russian Action

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 17:47:25 -0400

NATO defense ministers wrapped up an informal meeting in London on September 19 with an acknowledgement that more needs to be done to help the Afghan National Army double in size. Ministers also discussed the conflict in the Caucasus and the need for compromise to reach a political solution.

Officials Urge Congress to Approve U.S.-India Nuclear Accord

David McKeeby — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 17:26:41 -0400

Congress must act quickly to approve a civil nuclear cooperation deal with India that can allow future leaders to continue a historic transformation in relations between Washington and New Delhi. “We believe the time is now for Congress to move forward on the 123 Agreement.”

Russia Must Change Course in Georgia, Says Rice

David McKeeby — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 14:05:11 -0400

The crisis in Georgia is the latest example of a Russia that has become “increasingly authoritarian at home and aggressive abroad,” says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. “Russia’s leaders are making some unfortunate choices. But they can make different ones.”

United States, Guinea Enjoy Robust Relationship on Central Issues

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 11:53:02 -0400

The people of the United States and Guinea enjoy a good relationship and share a wide array of common views, even as some challenges remain, says Phillip Carter III, the former U.S. ambassador to that country, who is now the U.S. principal deputy assistant secretary of state for African affairs.

Georgia Crisis Deepens Complexity of U.S.-Russian Relations

David McKeeby — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 18:38:20 -0400

The Georgia crisis has further deepened the complexity of diplomatic relations between the United States and Russia, a relationship whose future will likely see a mix of competition, conflict and cooperation, says Under Secretary of State William Burns.

Allies Launch NATO-Georgia Commission

David McKeeby — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:36:56 -0400

In the international community’s strongest show of support for Georgia to date, 26 trans-Atlantic allies met in Tbilisi, Georgia, to launch the new NATO-Georgia Commission to help the emerging South Caucasus democracy rebuild following Russia’s August 2008 invasion.

Bush Praises Strong Leadership of Ghanaian President Kufuor

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 15:57:14 -0400

President Bush praises Ghanaian President John Kufuor for his strong leadership and for active support in conflict resolution across Africa. Kufuor is visiting the United States and was welcomed to the White House September 15 as part of a full state visit.

Charges by Venezuela, Bolivia Against U.S. Ambassadors False

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 18:43:07 -0400

Charges made by the Bolivian and Venezuelan governments against the U.S. ambassadors assigned there are baseless, and tend instead to show a certain desperation, a State Department spokesman says. "The charges leveled ... are false, and the leaders of those countries know it."

Bush to Welcome Ghana’s President for State Visit

Charles W. Corey — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:06:33 -0400

President Bush welcomes Ghanaian President John Kufuor to the White House September 15 for a state visit — the highest-level official visit, reserved for America’s closest partners and allies. The two leaders will discuss issues focused on democracy, economic development and regional security.

U.S. Warns Against New Russian Troop Deployments to Georgia

David McKeeby — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:51:37 -0400

Russian President Dmitry Medvedev’s proposal to position large troop garrisons in Georgia’s separatist regions threatens to further undermine the fragile truce in the South Caucasus crisis, a U.S. official says. Under a cease-fire accord, Russian and Georgian forces are required to pull back to positions held before hostilities began.

Georgia Security Aid No Threat to Russia, Defense Official Says

David McKeeby — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 14:42:53 -0400

U.S. security cooperation with Georgia has never been aimed against Russia, says Under Secretary of Defense Eric Edelman. “The reality is something quite different” from recent claims by Russia’s Vladimir Putin that the United States is “arming Georgians to the teeth,” he tells a Senate committee September 9.

NATO Enlargement Not Directed at Russia

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:09:12 -0400

The post-Cold War enlargement of NATO was not directed against Russia. "NATO enlargement was intended to achieve emergence of a Europe whole, free and at peace — all of Europe, not just its western half," Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried tells a Senate committee.

Russian Support of Georgian Separatists Raises New Questions

David McKeeby — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:01:33 -0400

The Georgia crisis began long before Russia’s August 8 assault, following years of provocative acts engineered to obstruct peace efforts, says U.S. official Matt Bryza. “Moscow’s pretext that it was ‘intervening’ in Georgia to protect Russian ‘citizens’ and ‘peacekeepers’ in South Ossetia was simply false.”

Memorial to September 11 Victims Graces Pentagon Landscape

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:04:49 -0400

A new memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, is expected to draw millions of visitors annually. The memorial site reflects themes of remembrance and resiliency through its design of engraved steel benches and reflecting ponds.

United States Places Sanctions on Iran's Largest Maritime Company

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:02:23 -0400

The United States levels financial sanctions against Iran's largest shipping line and 18 affiliates for shipping military-related arms and cargo. The company shipped cargo for Iran's Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, which controls Iran's ballistic missile research, development and production.

President Bush Sends U.S.-India Nuclear Accord to Congress

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 13:22:02 -0400

President Bush asks the U.S. Congress to approve a civil nuclear agreement with India that reverses more than three decades of U.S. policy, but will bring India's nuclear programs under international nonproliferation inspections.

Russian Attack on Georgia “Pre-planned,” Says Pentagon

David McKeeby — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 17:29:03 -0400

Before Russia’s August invasion, U.S. officials sent a clear message to Georgia: resist Moscow’s attempts to provoke Georgian military action in South Ossetia or Abkhazia. Russia executed a “pre-planned” operation to change the status quo in Georgia, says Under Secretary of Defense Eric Edelman.

Gates Says More U.S. Troops Are Needed in Afghanistan

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 17:09:02 -0400

While the United States is withdrawing combat forces from Iraq as the levels of violence decline and security by Iraqi forces improves, additional forces are being sent to Afghanistan to bolster security as the insurgency strengthens, say senior U.S. defense officials Robert Gates and Mike Mullen.

United States Withdrawing 8,000 Troops from Iraq by February

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 14:26:40 -0400

Improving security across Iraq, coupled with a sustained reduction in levels of violence, is making it possible for the United States to reduce its forces by nearly 8,000 personnel by February 2009. “Iraqi forces are becoming increasingly capable of leading and winning the fight," says President Bush.

Georgia Crisis Will Affect U.S.-Russian Relations in Long Term

David McKeeby — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 10:08:38 -0400

The United States will take a “steady, determined and patient” approach to Russia as it reassesses relations following the Georgia crisis, working with allies to resist further aggression from Moscow while leaving the door open for future cooperation, says Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried.

Trans-Atlantic Unity Key to Resolving Georgia Crisis, Says Cheney

David McKeeby — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 17:50:12 -0400

“Does Russia really want to separate itself from the community of values that has fueled so much of its own economic progress?” Vice President Cheney asks in Cernobbio, Italy, September 6. “Do those leaders believe that bullying others will turn out well for their country’s future?”

Western Hemisphere Nations Consider Disaster Response

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:03:30 -0400

The Conference of Defence Ministers of the Americas concludes its eighth meeting with an emphasis on the need to address criminal trafficking in drugs, weapons and people as well as better disaster planning. The delegates next will meet in Bolivia in 2010.

White House Withdraws Russian Nuclear Agreement from Congress

David McKeeby — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 08:32:14 -0400

President Bush withdraws a U.S.-Russian civil nuclear cooperation agreement currently under consideration by Congress “in view of recent actions by the Government of the Russian Federation incompatible with peaceful relations with its sovereign and democratic neighbor Georgia.”

Georgia Crisis Tops Agenda on Cheney’s Ukraine Visit

David McKeeby — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 18:09:54 -0400

Ukraine set a courageous example to the world by standing with Georgia following Russia’s August 8 attack, says U.S. Vice President Cheney. “The people of Georgia are looking to both our countries, and to the rest of the free world, to support them in this time of great trial and testing, and we must answer the call.”

Rice Makes Historic Visit to Libya

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 17:57:22 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice becomes the highest-ranking American official to visit Libya in more than a half-century, opening the way for renewed diplomatic relations between Libya and the United States. "It is a historic moment,” Rice says. “And it is one that has come after a lot of difficulty.”

World Rallying to Georgia’s Side, Says Rice

David McKeeby — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:00:27 -0400

The international community has rallied to Georgia’s side in the wake of Russia’s recent attack, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, while all Moscow has managed to show the world is that its military can overrun its smaller neighbors and that its leaders may not honor their diplomatic commitments.

Cheney Condemns Russia's Invasion of Georgia

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:20:08 -0400

Vice President Cheney calls Russia's war against Georgia "an illegitimate, unilateral attempt" to re-draw Georgia's borders by force, which has been condemned by the free world. "Russia's actions have cast grave doubt on Russia's intentions and on its reliability as an international partner,” he says.

United States Pledges $1 Billion to Rebuild Georgia

David McKeeby — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 15:06:24 -0400

The United States will deliver a new $1 billion recovery package to help Georgia meet immediate humanitarian needs, enhance its stability and regain its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. “A democratic Georgia will survive, will rebuild and will thrive,” says Secretary Rice.

Cheney Begins Consultations with Former Soviet Republics

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 16:54:10 -0400

Vice President Cheney is beginning a series of consultations with the leaders of three former Soviet republics in the aftermath of Russia's recent incursion into Georgia and its recognition of the breakaway Georgian provinces of South Ossetia and Abkhazia.

North Korea Not Rebuilding Yongbyon Nuclear Complex, U.S. Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 16:38:36 -0400

The North Koreans appear to be moving some equipment that previously had been stored at its Yongbyon nuclear processing facility, but they do not appear to be rebuilding the plutonium processing plant as North Korean officials had threatened on August 26, a State Department spokesman says.

Iraqis Reclaim Anbar Province, Says Bush

David McKeeby — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:31:14 -0400

Coalition forces have returned security responsibilities for Iraq’s Anbar province to civilian control, says President Bush, who praised the region’s dramatic turnaround as a testament to the Iraqi people’s commitment to democracy. “Today, Anbar is no longer lost to al Qaida -- it is al Qaida that lost Anbar.”

United States Praises European Union Efforts on Georgian Crisis

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 12:53:54 -0400

The White House welcomes European Union support to convince Russia to withdraw its combat forces that now occupy large sections of Georgia in violation of a cease-fire pact. The White House also encourages the EU to dispatch civilian monitors to Georgia to give Russia no excuse for keeping its forces in Georgia.

Rice's Trip Signals New Beginning in U.S.-Libya Relations

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:05:42 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's upcoming trip to Libya signifies a new beginning in U.S.-Libyan relations. "Normalized relations between the two countries enables the expansion of bilateral cooperation in a number of areas," State Department spokesman Sean McCormack says.

Western Hemisphere Nations Gather to Discuss Regional Security

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 14:34:21 -0400

With the hurricane season in full swing, leaders from nearly three dozen nations in the Western Hemisphere will meet in Banff, Canada, September 2-6 to facilitate cooperation during and after natural disasters as well as through regional peacekeeping and promotion of civil-military relations.

Russia’s G8 Partners Condemn Its Role in Georgia Crisis

David McKeeby — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:32:33 -0400

The foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, in an August 27 joint statement, deplore the actions of Russia in Georgia and express their “continued support for Georgia's sovereignty within its internationally recognized borders.”

U.S. Rejects Russia’s Recognition of Georgian Separatists

David McKeeby — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 11:39:49 -0400

Russia’s recognition of Georgia’s separatist South Ossetia and Abkhazia regions is a “regrettable” violation of international peace-building efforts Moscow once helped shape, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who joins in widespread international condemnation of Moscow’s latest move in the Georgia crisis.

European Missile Defense System Is Limited, No Threat to Russia

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 16:25:57 -0400

The development of a limited ballistic missile defense system in Europe creates an important capability for NATO allies that poses no threat to Russia, says a senior U.S. diplomat. The United States has signed agreements with the Czech Republic and Poland for development of elements of the system.

Russia Still Violating Cease-fire in Georgia, Says White House

David McKeeby — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 17:05:44 -0400

Russia has reduced its troop presence in Georgia, but still is violating a cease-fire deal brokered by the European Union following Moscow’s strike on the South Caucasus democracy, says White House spokesman Tony Fratto. “We still see large numbers of Russian troops in undisputed territory,” Fratto says.

Georgia Crisis Raises Questions About Russian Policy, Rice Says

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 11:26:37 -0400

Russia’s attack on Georgia is not the start of a “new Cold War,” but it does raise serious questions about Russia's commitment to "further integration into the international community," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says. Russia's recent actions have damaged the country's reputation, she says.

United States Will Help Rebuild Georgia’s Military

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 09:47:43 -0400

In addition to delivering humanitarian aid for thousands of Georgians displaced by Russia’s recent military incursion, the Pentagon plans to deliver new security assistance as well. “We will have to help them rebuild because they are a partner in the war on terror,” says U.S. Army General John Craddock.

U.S.-Iraq Agreement on Military Forces Nearing Completion

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 16:28:17 -0400

The United States and Iraq are very close to completing a final strategic agreement that will permit U.S. military forces to remain in Iraq and continue to conduct operations after a United Nations mandate expires December 31.

Russian Provocations Contributed to Georgia Crisis

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:14:49 -0400

Russia’s attack on Georgia followed several months of provocative acts engineered in Moscow, and the conflict was something Washington urged Georgia to avoid, says America’s top envoy to the region, Matt Bryza. “Our message was … avoid a direct military confrontation with Russia at all costs,” he says.

Russia Must Accelerate Withdrawal from Georgia, U.S. Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:21:42 -0400

Russia does not need any additional time and does not need to continue setting additional dates in the future for a withdrawal of its forces from Georgia, an administration official says. "They just need to withdraw," National Security Council spokesman Gordon Johndroe says.

United States, Poland Sign Missile Defense Declaration

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 15:26:02 -0400

A plan to locate a two-part, limited missile-defense system in Eastern Europe has been achieved and will make a substantial contribution to NATO's collective security, the State Department says. "It is an agreement which will help us to respond to the threats of the 21st century," Secretary of State Rice says in Warsaw.

NATO Strengthens Ties with Georgia

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 11:52:55 -0400

NATO will strengthen its ties to Georgia through a newly created commission designed to support reconstruction and stabilization in the aftermath of the Russian-Georgian conflict over two Georgian breakaway regions. The commission will help assess damages and restore essential services in the conflict zone.

Palestinian, Israeli Students Team Up to Become Sailing Crew

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:42:16 -0400

For six Israeli and Palestinian students, life on a swaying vessel off the Massachusetts coast offers a unique opportunity to learn to live and work together. Eric Dawicki, president of the Northeast Maritime Institute, tells America.gov how a ship can promote integrated conflict resolution in the Middle East.

Russia Will Not Be Allowed to Destabilize Europe, Rice Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:06:05 -0400

After an emergency meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brussels, Belgium, Secretary of State Rice says Russia will not be allowed to win in Georgia and at the same time destabilize Europe by creating spheres of influence along its borders.

Bush Says Russia Has Damaged Its Global Credibility

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:15:21 -0400

In the aftermath of the harsh Russian-Georgian conflict this month over two breakaway provinces of Georgia, the Bush administration has begun a careful re-evaluation of the U.S.-Russia Strategic Framework Declaration issued in April and what the bilateral relationship will be in the future.

NATO Ministers Weigh Response to Georgia Crisis

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:25:20 -0400

NATO’s 26 foreign ministers will meet in an emergency session to underline the alliance’s commitment to Georgia and weigh ties with Russia in the wake of Russia’s attack on the emerging South Caucasus democracy. “Georgia will rebuild,” says Secretary of State Rice. “Russia’s reputation may not be rebuilt.”

United States Pledges Continued Cooperation with Pakistan

Stephen Kaufman — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:42:23 -0400

In the aftermath of President Pervez Musharraf’s resignation, the United States will continue its strong support for Pakistan’s democratically elected government and its partnership with the country against terrorism, Bush administration officials said.

Bush Says Russia Must Honor Agreement with Georgia

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 11:22:04 -0400

President Bush says Russia must honor the cease-fire accord it signed with Georgia to resolve a conflict that erupted over the breakaway regions of South Ossetia and Abkhazia August 7.

Rice Says Georgian-Russian Cease-Fire Agreement Reached

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 11:12:42 -0400

Russia's "bullying and intimidation" in Georgia are not acceptable ways of conducting international relations, President Bush says, reminding the Russian government that the Cold War, waged for a half century, is over.

United States, Poland Sign Limited Missile Defense Pact

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:15:40 -0400

A limited anti-missile defense system stationed in Europe will make a substantial contribution to NATO's collective security, the White House says. The United States and Poland August 14 signed an agreement for 10 missile interceptors, which have no warheads, in Poland.

U.S.-Libya Compensation Pact Opens Path for Expanded Relations

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 13:14:40 -0400

The United States and Libya reach an agreement to resolve lawsuits by American and Libyan victims of terrorist attacks and bombings in 1986 and 1988, says Ambassador David Welch. "When fulfilled, the agreement we signed today will permit Libya and the United States to move ahead in developing their relations," he says.

Gates Says Military Mission Aims to Save Lives, Ease Suffering

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:11:51 -0400

A broad U.S. military-led humanitarian relief operation has begun to assist the people of Georgia following nearly seven days of combat between Georgian forces and elements of the Russian army, says Defense Secretary Robert Gates.

Rice Rejects Russian “Protector” Role in South Ossetia, Abkhazia

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:11:10 -0400

Secretary of State Rice underlines the importance of respecting Georgia’s territorial integrity as American and European negotiators work for peace. “This is a member state of the United Nations whose internationally recognized boundaries have to be respected,” Rice says.

Rice Urges Russia to Cease Military Operations in Georgia

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:07:55 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says Russia must end military operations in Georgia immediately as it agreed to in a cease-fire agreement worked out by the European Union just days ago.

Russia Must End Military Assault in Georgia, Bush Says

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 11:06:58 -0400

The United States will “rally the free world in the defense of a free Georgia,” says President Bush, announcing that Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is heading to Europe to support mediation efforts with Russia, while the U.S. military will lead a humanitarian aid mission to the emerging South Caucasus democracy.

Rice Welcomes Progress Toward Resolving Georgia Crisis

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 11:03:01 -0400

The United States welcomes reports that Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has ordered a halt to military operations in Georgia, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. “Calm needs to be restored,” Rice says after she briefs President Bush on diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.

North Korea Must Provide a Verification Plan, U.S. Officials Say

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 13:26:42 -0400

North Korea cannot be removed from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism until it submits a plan that would allow international inspectors to verify that North Korea's nuclear program has been stopped, a State Department official says.

Georgia to Get U.S. Humanitarian Assistance

Domenick DiPasquale — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:01:54 -0400

The U.S. government will be providing new humanitarian assistance to help the people of Georgia affected by the current military confrontation with Russia. The funding, announced by the U.S. Agency for International Development, will be used for relief supplies that can assist as many as 10,000 people.

Russian Attack on Georgia Unacceptable, Says Bush

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:01:00 -0400

Russia’s continued attacks despite a proposed Georgian cease-fire mark a “dramatic and brutal escalation” in the crisis over the breakaway region of South Ossetia, President Bush says at the White House. “Russia has invaded a sovereign neighboring state and threatens a democratic government elected by its people.”

Bush Cites Political, Economic Progress Across East Asia

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 16:01:21 -0400

President Bush wraps up a three-nation, seven-day visit to East Asia, citing the enormous growth in political liberty and economic prosperity that has enhanced the lives and livelihoods of hundreds of millions across the region.

United States Seeks Emergency Mediation to Defuse Georgia Crisis

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 11:00:13 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice urges Russia to halt its attacks in Georgia’s breakaway South Ossetia region as the United States reaches out to its European allies to assemble an emergency mediation effort to defuse the crisis.

United States Urges Halt to Hostilities in South Ossetia

Domenick R. DiPasquale — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 10:57:47 -0400

The United States calls on Russia and Georgia to end the recent sharp escalation in fighting that has broken out in Georgia’s breakaway region of South Ossetia. The United States and Europe are working toward international mediation and “urgently seek Russia’s support of these efforts," Secretary Rice says.

Bush Reflects on Solid Foundation of U.S.-China Relations

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 13:55:57 -0400

The new U.S. Embassy complex in Beijing reflects the solid foundation underpinning U.S.-Chinese relations, President Bush says, and "is a commitment to strengthen that foundation for years to come." The $434 million, eight-story embassy is the second largest U.S. diplomatic post in the world.

Terrorism Cannot Destroy Strong U.S.-Africa Ties

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 13:42:15 -0400

The “unspeakable” bombing by al-Qaida of the U.S. embassies in Nairobi, Kenya, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 10 years ago strengthened the long-standing ties that bind the American, Kenyan and Tanzanian people, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says on the 10th anniversary of the bombings.

Bush Pledges Continued Commitment to Asia

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 12:09:54 -0400

The United States has played a pivotal role in Asia’s transformation from post-World war II poverty to a thriving economic powerhouse, says President Bush, pledging America’s continued commitment to strengthening diplomacy and trade ties, as well as confronting shared challenges across the region.

United States Transforming Alliance with South Korea, Bush Says

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 16:54:02 -0400

America’s half-century of partnership with South Korea is “one of the great success stories of modern times,” says President Bush. Transforming and expanding the relationship to meet the challenges of the 21st century take center stage as Bush meets President Lee Myung-bak in Seoul.

Notes from the Field

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 17:26:20 -0400

Look inside the provincial reconstruction teams (PRTs) as they work to improve the lives and livelihoods of Afghans and Iraqis.

Bush Travels to South Korea, Thailand and China

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 16:01:24 -0400

President Bush’s seven-day visit to three East Asian nations will blend ceremony with diplomacy, and likely will be his last official trip to the region before he leaves office next January. Bush will visit South Korea, Thailand and China from August 4 to August 11. It will be Bush’s ninth trip to the region.

New Defense Strategy Focuses on Terrorism, Extremists

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 09:42:30 -0400

The most significant threat to U.S. national security for the foreseeable future will come from terrorists and violent extremist ideology, according to the 2008 National Defense Strategy released recently by the Pentagon. The last strategy issued by the Pentagon was in March 2005.

U.S. Envoy Says North Korea Must Improve Human Rights Conditions

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 08:09:10 -0400

North Korea’s human rights conditions are “abysmal,” says U.S. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Christopher Hill, and must be addressed in parallel to negotiations on North Korea’s nuclear program if Pyongyang hopes to realize improved relations with the United States.

Bush Revamps U.S. Intelligence Operations

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 15:39:44 -0400

Reforming the U.S. intelligence community became a critical goal of President Bush following the 2001 terrorist attack on the United States. On July 31, he revised an executive order that specifies enhanced rules for intelligence operations and strengthens the authority of the national intelligence director.

Resignation of Israel’s Olmert Will Not Stop Mideast Peace Effort

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 18:51:12 -0400

Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s resignation announcement will not disrupt U.S. efforts to promote Mideast peace, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. “It’s an internal Israeli matter. We continue to be committed to the goals of Annapolis,” Rice tells reporters July 30 in Washington.

Bush Hails Improving Security Conditions in Iraq

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:02:26 -0400

President Bush welcomes Iraq’s continued security gains and political progress, which he said could lead to further troop reductions during his final six months in office. While “progress is still reversible,” Ambassador Ryan Crocker and coalition Commander General David Petraeus report “a degree of durability in [security] gains.”

United States Committed to Lebanon’s Independence

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 11:05:37 -0400

The United States is making a “long-term investment” in Lebanon’s democracy aimed at promoting peace and stability across the Middle East. There are “two visions of Lebanon at play,” says former U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Feltman: “one vision that’s allied with Syria and Iran … [and] another vision of Lebanon that’s looking westward.”

United States Continues Fight Against Spread of Nuclear Weapons

Julie Hyman — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 10:19:00 -0400

The United States continues to work to eliminate the spread of nuclear weapons, and is focusing on weaknesses in proliferation pathways, according to a senior U.S. official.

Internet Resources

Janine Perry — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 22:46:06 -0400

United States Imposes Sanctions on 10 Burmese Firms

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 15:30:04 -0400

The United States is imposing further economic sanctions on Burma in an effort to punish the ruling military junta for systematically oppressing the Burmese people. The U.S. Treasury Department announces financial sanctions against 10 companies suspected of being owned or controlled by the military-run government of Burma.

Duck and Cover

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:25:37 -0400

In 1951, the newly established Federal Civil Defense Administration (FCDA) commissioned production of a film to instruct children how to react in the event of a nuclear attack. The result was Duck and Cover, a film lasting nine minutes that was shown in schools throughout the United States.

Controlling the World's Most Dangerous Weapon

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:24:59 -0400

A new world emerged on September 11, 2001—a world more uncertain and dangerous than the one we knew before. In countries around the world, innocents are the target of a new type of war. Terrorists, including al-Qaida, are trying to acquire weapons of mass destruction.

U.S. Firmly Committed to NPT

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:22:26 -0400

Thirty-five years ago, the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons entered into force. Today, almost all nations are party to the treaty. The NPT represents a key legal barrier to nuclear weapons proliferation and makes a critical contribution to international security.

Nuclear Terrorism: Weapons for Sale or Theft?

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:21:58 -0400

Although nuclear terrorism has been a source of speculation and concern from the mid-1970s onward, the end of the Cold War heralded additional fears about the ability of sub-state actors to acquire weapons of mass destruction.

Not with a Whimper: Visions of Mass Destruction in Fiction and Film

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:21:18 -0400

It has so far proven very "difficult for novelists or filmmakers to portray the mentality of the stateless terrorist, the messianic fanatic who seeks to murder people indiscriminately, for no obvious purpose except to pile up the bodies," says Richard Pells, of the University of Texas at Austin.

North Korea: A Rogue State Outside the NPT Fold

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:19:38 -0400

The government of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK)—or North Korea—has never been in full compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), to which it acceded in 1985. The signing of a safeguards agreement allowing inspections of its nuclear program was postponed until 1992.

Libya Renounces Weapons of Mass Destruction

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:18:00 -0400

Libya's decision to give up its weapons of mass destruction programs is a real nonproliferation success story of the new millennium, Assistant Secretary of State for Verification and Compliance Paula DeSutter says.

New Players on the Scene: A.Q. Khan and the Nuclear Black Market

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:18:50 -0400

Current nonproliferation regimes "may be inadequate to deal with the emerging threat of non-state proliferation" that Pakistani nuclear scientist A.Q. Khan represents, according to U.S. Air Force Colonel Charles D. Lutes.

How to Strengthen the NPT

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:17:00 -0400

In order to strengthen the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), we must deal with today's reality. NPT parties must maintain pressure on existing violators and strengthen efforts to deter future noncompliance, according to Ambassador Jackie Wolcott Sanders.

After Iran: Keeping Nuclear Energy Peaceful

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 12:08:02 -0400

The best chance for nations seeking to prevent further nuclear proliferation is to enforce the original presumption of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty's Article IV, says author Henry Sokolski.

Taking Legislative Aim at Weapons of Mass Destruction

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 22:55:30 -0400

At their recent summit in Bratislava, President Bush and Russia's President Vladimir Putin agreed to conclude cooperative security enhancements at Russia's nuclear warhead—and material—storage facilities by no later than the year 2008.

About This Issue

Janine Perry — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 22:49:53 -0400

Just when we thought that the end of the Cold War also meant the end of nighttime terrors about nuclear annihilation, that evil atomic specter, rising out of a terrible mushroom-shaped cloud, has reappeared.

Pakistan Pledges to Confront Extremists

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:37:09 -0400

Pakistan is a strong ally and a vibrant democracy, and the United States will continue building a partnership with its government to confront terrorism through both security assistance and economic aid, President Bush said following his July 28 White House meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani.

United States Supports India's Civil Nuclear Pact

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 10:38:15 -0400

India is facing increasing demand for new energy sources to bolster its expanding economy and meet the needs of a population that now exceeds 1.1 billion people. A proposed U.S.-India civil nuclear accord could make ample energy resources a more likely possibility.

America Must Continue to Stand for Freedom, Bush Says

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 17:59:10 -0400

America must continue to stand with those who seek freedom not only from tyranny, but also from the scourges of poverty, disease and hunger, says President Bush. “The challenge for future presidents and future Congresses is to ensure that America always stands with those seeking freedom,” he said in Washington.

Rice Urges Congress to Pass U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement

Amor Safi — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:49:00 -0400

U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice comments on the United States partnership with Colombia and urges Congress to approve the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement.

U.S., Colombian Defense Ministers Comment on Colombia’s Progress

Amor Safi — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:53:12 -0400

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Colombian Defense Minister Juan Manuel Santos comment on Columbia’s progress in an op-ed headlined “Colombia’s Gains are America’s, Too,” which first appears in the July 23 edition of the New York Times.

Kazakhstan Committed to Reforms, Says State’s Boucher

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:46:36 -0400

Kazakhstan is earning America’s support for its bid to lead the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe by committing to further democratic reforms, says Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher. “The decision to support Kazakhstan’s chairmanship was not one the United States made quickly or easily,” he says.

Fourth Fleet Reborn to Provide Maritime Security in Latin America

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 13:44:59 -0400

The United States has re-established the U.S. Fourth Fleet to enhance maritime security in the southern region of the Western Hemisphere, says the U.S. chief of naval operations, and also to provide expanded humanitarian assistance, maritime training and support.

Colombia's FARC Terrorist Group Faces Devastating Reversals

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 12:57:17 -0400

The Colombian terrorist group known as the FARC is suffering mounting losses at the hands of aggressive Colombian military and law enforcement authorities while simultaneously watching its influence and relevance weaken. Every effort by the FARC to win relevance and influence in the past year has failed.

Arms Control Verification Requires Experts with Special Skills

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:00:30 -0400

Arms control agreements require a special breed of experts to monitor and inspect weapons production facilities and related equipment to ensure that countries abide by their political commitments. Verifiers must wear many hats as they seek to determine nations’ intent to comply with signed agreements.

White House Hails Arrest of Radovan Karadzic

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 17:04:29 -0400

The White House lauds Serbia after its arrest of one of the world’s most wanted fugitives -- Radovan Karadzic, the Bosnian Serb leader during the 1990s “ethnic cleansing.” “There is no better tribute to the victims of the war’s atrocities than bringing their perpetrators to justice,” says the White House’s Dana Perino.

Missile Defense Plan Directed at Rogue Nations, Not Russia

Domenick R. DiPasquale — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:38:03 -0400

The United States has reiterated that its planned missile defense system in Europe is not directed against Russia but rather against the growing threat from rogue nations such as Iran, according to a senior U.S. military official.

Rice Says Iran Has Not Been Serious in Nuclear Talks

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:19:30 -0400

The United States and five other world powers have shown they are serious that Iranian leaders must decide whether to halt Iran’s uranium enrichment program, which could be used in manufacturing nuclear weapons, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Burma, North Korea Top Southeast Asian Security Agenda

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 09:35:11 -0400

Against a backdrop of growing regional political and economic cooperation, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will discuss the challenges of Burma and North Korea as she meets with leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations July 23-24 in Singapore.

U.S. Humanitarian Aid Focuses on Saving Lives, Not Politics

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:40:18 -0400

The United States long has understood that providing humanitarian assistance for victims of disaster, whether natural or man-made, must be offered without political conditions. Saving lives and livelihoods demands nothing less, a State Department official tells a congressional hearing.

Rice Receives Leaders of Newly Independent Kosovo

Michael Buchanan — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 18:07:26 -0400

U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice welcomes top officials from Kosovo in their first visit to Washington, highlighting the new democracy’s progress toward strengthening government institutions and protecting Serb communities. She also reaffirms American support for Kosovo’s new administration.

United States Seeks New Agreement on Cluster Munitions

Samantha Berk — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 12:19:08 -0400

Although the United States will not commit to a blanket ban on cluster munitions, it is committed to enhancing civilian safety through improved technology. A U.S. delegation to the Conference on Certain Conventional Weapons at Geneva is working with other countries to find a solution to the humanitarian problem these weapons pose.

Indian, Pakistani Youth Plant “Seeds of Peace”

MacKenzie Babb, Michael Buchanan and Julie Hyman — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 11:10:08 -0400

Seeds of Peace was created in 1993 to give young leaders from regions in conflict the skills they need to move their societies toward reconciliation. The program brings young participants to a camp in the United States where they live and interact together. America.gov talks to participants in the 2008 program.

United States Seeks Improved Relations with Venezuela

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 18:16:07 -0400

The United States welcomes recent offers from Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez to improve relations, which U.S Under Secretary Thomas Shannon says are rooted in longstanding historical and commercial ties. “We would like to explore this diplomatic opening,” Shannon tells a congressional panel.

Open Skies Concept Builds Security; Could Be Used for Disasters

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 17:54:05 -0400

Unarmed aerial observation flights have been promoting confidence and military-to-military cooperation among the 34 members of the Open Skies Treaty since 2001. Now nations envision the possibility of using the treaty for future applications such as assessing potential threats after natural disasters.

Rice Launches New Civilian Response Corps

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:47:02 -0400

Helping states emerge from conflicts, disasters, and political crises represents a complex international security challenge, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and America’s new Civilian Response Corps offers a new approach to stabilization and reconstruction efforts.

United States Reducing Presence in Iraq, Bush Says

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 16:24:20 -0400

The United States and Iraq share the goal of improving security and strengthening the fledgling democracy to the point where U.S.-led coalition forces can leave the country, President Bush says. Afghanistan, Pakistan, Zimbabwe and Sudan’s Darfur region shared the spotlight in a July 15 White House press conference.

Experts Call for Expanded U.S.-Africa Agricultural Trade

Charles W. Corey — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 10:48:18 -0400

In the face of record-high food and commodity prices, there is no better time than now to expand the African Growth and Opportunity Act to further open and enhance agricultural trade between the United States and Africa, say experts at the AGOA Civil Society Forum held in Washington.

Milestone of 500 Open Skies Flights Celebrated

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 17:17:18 -0400

The 1992 Open Skies Treaty is one of the most wide-ranging international efforts to promote transparency and openness about military forces and activities. On July 14, treaty participants celebrated the symbolic 500th aerial observation flight. The actual flight will likely occur in August.

Internet Resources

Janelle Simmons — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 09:40:55 -0400

Rice Urges End to Separatist Violence in Georgia

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:56:50 -0400

Russia must do more to help defuse rising tensions between neighboring Georgia and its breakaway regions, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. “It needs to be a part of resolving the problem and solving the problem and not contributing to it,” Rice said July 10 in Tbilisi with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili.

Rice Receives Bulgarian Honor for Helping Free Medics

MacKenzie C. Babb — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 18:11:03 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice accepts Bulgaria’s highest honor for her help in freeing six medics imprisoned in Libya for more than eight years. "I'm glad and pleased to have played a role," Rice says on receiving the Stara Planina First Class Medal. "It was indeed a terrible ordeal but one I'm glad has ended."

Bush Praises Significant Progress on Climate Change

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:10:59 -0400

President Bush praised the major world economies for making significant progress during the final day of the Group of Eight forum by agreeing that there must be a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions if there is to be any hope of reining in global warming by mid-century.

Six-Party Talks Shift to Confirming North Korean Nuclear Claims

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 10:09:31 -0400

As envoys to the Six-Party Talks meet in Beijing to build on recent progress toward stabilizing the Korean Peninsula, verifying North Korea’s nuclear claims will top the agenda, says Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Hill. "Verification will probably take longer than just a few days. Iit will be weeks, and maybe months," he said.

Rice Signs Missile Defense Agreement in Prague

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 11:59:05 -0400

A new agreement between the United States and the Czech Republic to host a key component of a Europe-based missile defense system marks a step toward safeguarding the region and the international community, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

G8 Supports Cutting Greenhouse Emissions 50 Percent by 2050

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:08:09 -0400

The Group of Eight major economies agree that the deteriorating effects of greenhouse gas emissions on the environment require cutting emissions 50 percent by 2050 to rein in global warming, says a senior U.S. official.

New Research Shows Increased Arab Support for Two-State Solution

Michael Buchanan and Julie Hyman — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 11:17:32 -0400

The Arab world supports a two-state solution to resolve the Arab-Israeli conflict, according to recent research presented at the Saban Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution.

Bush, Russia’s Medvedev Highlight Agreement on Iran, North Korea

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:44:04 -0400

President Bush and Russian President Dimitry Medvedev highlighted their agreement on security challenges posed by Iran and North Korea following their first presidential meeting. “While there are some areas of disagreement, there are also areas where I know we can work together for the common good,” says Bush.

Significant Peacekeeping and Nonproliferation Successes

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:46:18 -0400

G8, African Leaders Discuss Zimbabwe

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:31:54 -0400

Members of the Group of Eight major industrialized democracies met with leaders from seven African nations to discuss actions to take against Zimbabwe over its flawed presidential runoff election and an array of global issues confronting Africa, including health, food, trade and investment.

United States Stands with Japan on North Korea Abductions

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 13:38:24 -0400

Despite recent advances, the path to peace on the Korean Peninsula still faces many obstacles, says President Bush, who urged Pyongyang to answer lingering questions about a secret North Korean program to kidnap Japanese citizens to help train intelligence agents on Japanese language and customs.

United States “Delighted” by Successful Colombian Rescue Mission

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 14:32:36 -0400

U.S. officials are offer praise and congratulations to Colombia for its military’s successful rescue mission that freed 15 hostages held by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), including three Americans. The FARC continues to hold many hostages and the United States also calls for their immediate release.

Food Aid, Development Issues Figure Prominently in G8 Summit

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 17:06:19 -0400

The Group of Eight major economies will hold critical meetings with leaders of seven African nations on the opening day of the annual G8 summit in Japan to address food aid and economic development assistance. President Bush will urge other leaders to fulfill their previous commitments to Africa.

Six-Party Talks Setting Stage for New Diplomacy in Northeast Asia

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 16:57:55 -0400

The diplomatic effort to convince North Korea to abandon its nuclear arsenal could lead to a new era of peace and stability, says Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Hill. “The Six-Party process is … also showing results in the issue of bringing the countries closer together.”

Secretary Rice Highlights Global Partnership with China

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 12:15:47 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s wide-ranging agenda in Beijing reflects the complexity and importance of today’s U.S.-China relationship. “The United States and China simply must work together if we are going to resolve the many challenges that we face in the international community,” Rice says.

Africa Forum to Focus on Expanded Trade, Economic Growth

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 18:10:18 -0400

When government leaders from sub-Saharan Africa meet in Washington July 14-16 at an annual economic forum, the focus will be on mobilizing private investment to expand trade and growth across the continent, say senior U.S. officials.

Merida Initiative Will Help Battle Drug Trafficking

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:18:07 -0400

Recognizing that illegal drug trafficking is not just a Mexican and Central American problem but also a problem for the United States, Congress and President Bush launch a multiyear partnership to provide equipment and training to curb the flow of narcotics.

Secretary Rice in China Discusses Relations with North Korea

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 16:53:27 -0400

Diplomatic engagement will be key to realizing a nuclear weapons-free Korean Peninsula, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in Beijing. “We, I believe, stand at the threshold of turning an area that has been a source of conflict into a source of cooperation.”

Bush Calls for Additional Sanctions Against Zimbabwe’s Rulers

Stephen Kaufman — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:26:42 -0400

“The United States stands ready to support a legitimate government” in Zimbabwe with development aid, debt relief and normalized relations with international financial institutions, President Bush says while urging sanctions against President Robert Mugabe’s regime after a “sham” run-off election and violence against political opposition.

Hospital Ship Offers Treatment in Southeast Asia, Pacific

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 12:44:16 -0400

The USNS Mercy is sailing to Vietnam, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and Micronesia, bringing together medical, dental and engineering teams and nongovernmental groups from multiple nations to coordinate humanitarian and civic action programs of lasting value.

U.S.-Chinese Relations Progress Despite Military Modernization

Julie Hyman — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 14:58:11 -0400

While questions remain about China’s expanding military investments, the country’s shared interests with the United States in enhanced regional security ensure cooperation and continued progress, senior U.S. defense officials say.

Congress Welcomes North Korea's Nuclear Declaration

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 11:14:03 -0400

Key members of Congress say North Korea's submission of its long-awaited nuclear declaration is critical to enhancing East Asian security by removing nuclear weapons from the Korean Peninsula. House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Howard Berman said North Korea's declaration is encouraging, but must be verified.

North Korea Nuclear Declaration Step in Right Direction, Says Bush

David McKeeby — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 13:57:08 -0400

The United States will lift key trade sanctions and remove North Korea from its list of state sponsors of terrorism following that nation’s decision to provide information about past nuclear activities, says President Bush. “This can be a moment of opportunity for North Korea,” Bush says.

United States to Ease North Korea Political, Economic Sanctions

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:08:20 -0400

The United States will remove North Korea from its list of state sponsors of terrorism within 45 days, as long as it can be verified that North Korean leaders have kept their promises and dismantled their nuclear bomb-making program, says National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley.

More Responsive, Coordinated U.S. Aid Effort Urged

Michael Buchanan — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 14:59:18 -0400

Growing global poverty and its array of related problems can be confronted only by a better partnership of U.S. agencies, say two former leaders of the U.S. Agency for International Development, America’s premier foreign-assistance agency.

Diplomacy Is Working on North Korea, Secretary Rice Says

Amor Safi — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 11:26:36 -0400

Multilateral talks with North Korea are the best way to learn more about and hopefully eliminate its nuclear weapons and programs, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says in an op-ed published in the June 26 edition of the Wall Street Journal.

United States Seeks Long-Term Partnership with Pakistan

David McKeeby — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 17:29:33 -0400

Pakistan’s democratically elected government presents America with a historic opportunity to revitalize its relationship with a key ally, says Assistant Secretary Richard Boucher. “The safety and security of the United States is inextricably linked to the success, security and stability of a democratic Pakistan.”

U.S. Navy Sends Divers, Ships to Help Philippines

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:08:02 -0400

U.S. Navy divers have joined with Philippine rescue workers in trying to find survivors of the sunken passenger ferry MV Princess of the Stars off Sibuyan Island in the central Philippines. Navy ships have joined in search and recovery operations in the aftermath of Typhoon Fengshen.

Under Secretary Glassman on How to Win the War of Ideas

Amor Safi — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 14:51:04 -0400

U.S. Under Secretary of State James K. Glassman’s op-ed on "How to Win the War of Ideas" appeared in the June 24 edition of the Wall Street Journal.

Nixon, Bunche Saw the Future of U.S.-African Relations

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 12:39:13 -0400

The Eisenhower administration’s creation of the Bureau of African Affairs half a century ago signaled a bold step away from what had been a Eurocentric, quasi-colonial policy view of Africa.

Nations Extol Virtues of Fighting Together Against Nuclear Terror

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 11:52:52 -0400

No country can thwart the threat of nuclear terrorism alone, but there is much being done collectively to deter, detect and deny safe havens to potential nuclear terrorists. Representatives to the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism recently met to consider strategies to fight this threat.

Palestinian Justice System Essential to Mideast Peace, Says Rice

David McKeeby — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 09:18:28 -0400

Security and the rule of law represent the foundations of any successful state, says Secretary of State Rice, citing $242.3 million in new aid targeted for the Palestinian justice system essential to the future of Mideast peace. “Every link in what we call the chain of security must be intact and unbreakable,” Rice says.

North Korea Moving Toward Nuclear Declaration, Says Rice

David McKeeby — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:51:31 -0400

North Korea may be ready to issue its long-delayed declaration of past nuclear activities, marking a step forward for international efforts to stabilize the Korean Peninsula, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. “The hope is that within ... the month that we might receive the declaration,” Rice tells CNN’s editorial board June 19.

Afghan Justice, Agriculture Sectors Grow, Confront Opium Trade

Julie Hyman and Michael Buchanan — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:47:20 -0400

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and its Afghan partners shut down the powerful drug trafficking organization of Haji Baz Mohammad, a Taliban-linked narco-terrorist, in 2005, after a four-year battle that demonstrated a close cooperation between the United States and the newly democratic Afghanistan.

United States, European Union Share Similar Policies for Cuba

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:40:29 -0400

The United States and the European Union have common goals for Cuba and they start with the release of political prisoners, a healthy respect for political opposition leaders, and free and fair elections for the Cuban people.

Rice to Visit China's Earthquake-Stricken Chengdu

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 14:57:13 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice will travel to Chengdu in China's mountainous Sichuan province June 29 to express the condolences of the American people to the survivors of the devastating May 12 earthquake.

South Caucasus Should Follow European Path, Says Fried

David McKeeby — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 10:55:25 -0400

America is dedicated to advancing the “frontiers of freedom” to Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia by helping them resolve conflicts and build democratic institutions that will let them share in the peace and prosperity enjoyed by others since the end of the Cold War, says America’s top diplomat for Europe.

International Community Investing in Afghanistan’s Future

David McKeeby — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:14:06 -0400

The more than $20 billion in new aid for Afghanistan raised at a recent conference reflects the international community’s confidence in the South Asian democracy, and a belief in the Afghan people’s determination to start the next phase of emergence from decades of war, poverty and oppressive Taliban rule.

Gaza Truce Is Helpful, United States Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 17:27:07 -0400

One of the objectives of the 2007 Annapolis Conference on the Middle East was to enhance security for Israelis and Palestinians, so a truce between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip can be helpful in moving peace negotiations forward, says State Department deputy spokesman Tom Casey.

Rice Emphasizes Successes in U.S.-East Asian Relations

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 12:41:14 -0400

Since the beginning of the Bush administration in 2001 one of the highest goals of U.S. foreign policy has been to deepen the chances for peace and security in Northeast Asia, and the effort seems to be succeeding.

United States Plans New Travel Procedures for 27 Countries

Jonathan Schaffer — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:03:32 -0400

Beginning January 12, 2009, travelers to the United States from 22 countries in Europe and five in the Asia-Pacific region currently exempt from certain U.S. visa requirements will be using a new online travel authorization process intended to determine whether they are law enforcement or security risks.

Rice Warns Israel on Settlement Expansion

David McKeeby — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 09:44:35 -0400

An Israeli plan to expand settlement activity in disputed areas of East Jerusalem could slow progress toward a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice warns during her latest peace mission to the region.

NATO Will Help Train New Kosovo Security Force

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 18:10:16 -0400

In their first meeting since the April summit in Romania, NATO defense ministers reiterate the alliance’s commitment to Kosovo’s security and agree to train its new army. Their decision came just before Kosovo’s new constitution entered into force June 15 and four months after Kosovo’s declaration of independence.

Voucher Program for Afghan Farmers Encourages Agriculture

Julie Hyman — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 17:37:01 -0400

The Afghanistan Vouchers for Increased Production in Agriculture is the new attempt to stimulate agriculture in Afghanistan, which is a top priority of the Afghanistan National Development Strategy.

U.S.-Russia Nuclear Pact Looks to Further Cooperation

Michael Buchanan — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 17:12:34 -0400

The new “123 Agreement” with Russia presents an opportunity for two former nuclear rivals to share peaceful nuclear technology and combat nuclear proliferation, a senior U.S. State Department official says. Allowed would be the transfer of technology, material and equipment under strict controls.

European Leaders Join Bush on More Iranian Sanctions

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 16:23:58 -0400

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, French President Nicolas Sarkozy and German Chancellor Angela Merkel join President Bush in further efforts to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons or the means to develop them.

On Berlin Airlift Anniversary, “Sweet” Memories of Support Remain

Michael Buchanan and MacKenzie Babb — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 17:58:43 -0400

When American planes filled the skies of blockaded Berlin 60 years ago, dropping much-needed supplies such as food and coal, one pilot’s parachutes carried a different cargo. Chocolate, candy and chewing gum fell from the plane of Gail Halvorsen in his one-man effort to sweeten the lives of the city’s children.

Accelerated Cooperation Needed to Fight Nuclear Terrorism

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 17:40:40 -0400

Experts who study terrorist behavior characterize them as opportunists looking to exploit any weakness. One area for potential exploitation is poorly controlled nuclear materials. That is why elements of the international community are working in concert through the voluntary Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism.

Marshall Plan Holds Lessons for Middle East, Says Bush

David McKeeby — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 17:30:27 -0400

As the Marshall Plan brought new hope to the people of postwar Europe, a new generation on both sides of the Atlantic must now come together to support others seeking peace and prosperity through democracy. “Europe and America must stand with reformers and democratic leaders,” President Bush says.

Afghan Determination Earns $20 Billion in New Aid

David McKeeby — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:30:04 -0400

Recognizing the Afghan people’s determination to rebuild their country, international donors pledge more than $20 billion in new aid at the International Conference in Support of Afghanistan. “We all know that success will not be easy, but Afghanistan has reached a decisive moment for its future,” says Laura Bush.

Weapons Proliferation Poses Serious Threat, Official Says

MacKenzie Babb — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 18:11:04 -0400

A broad partnership of nations must be ready to act against weapons proliferation and the illicit arms trade to successfully fight terrorism, a senior U.S. diplomat says. And the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction represents a major security threat of the 21st century that requires a new, comprehensive strategy.

U.S. First Lady Says Food Crisis Demands Global Response

Julie Hyman — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:54:16 -0400

Meeting people's basic need for food demands a global response as rising commodity and freight costs, devastating natural disasters and the ravages of conflict combine to threaten lives and livelihoods, first lady Laura Bush tells the World Food Programme’s executive board in Rome.

First Lady on the Challenges Facing Afghanistan

Amor Safi — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:45:17 -0400

Afghan Development Plan Confronts Drug Traffickers

David McKeeby — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 15:43:10 -0400

Drug trafficking fuels violence and encourages corruption, making it the single largest threat to Afghanistan’s future, say Afghan leaders in Paris to introduce the Afghanistan National Development Strategy. “Those who are engaged in the narcotics industry … provide funding for terrorist activities and fuel corruption.”

United States, Iraq Negotiating Forces Agreement

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:58:56 -0400

The United States is negotiating a new agreement with the Iraqi government about the future presence and makeup of U.S. forces in Iraq after a U.N. mandate expires at the end of 2008. "I think we'll end up with a strategic agreement with Iraq," President Bush says.

Bush, Germany’s Merkel Seek Common Front in Dealing with Iran

Michael Buchanan — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 08:54:03 -0400

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Bush express a strong commitment to presenting a common U.S.-European Union policy on Iran following their talks in Meseberg, Germany, June 11. Merkel says Iran should live up to its promise of nuclear openness or face additional consequences.

Bush Visits Europe 60 Years After Marshall Plan

Michael Buchanan — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 18:53:10 -0400

When President Bush touched down in Slovenia for his last major visit to Europe, he set foot on a continent that has reinvented itself. From the devastation of World War II to the thriving EU community of today, Europe has experienced a renewal with that has roots 60 years ago in the American Marshall Plan.

Afghans Appeal for Aid at Paris Conference

David McKeeby — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 17:42:03 -0400

As representatives arrive in Paris for the International Conference in Support of Afghanistan, assistant secretary Richard Boucher urges them to remember that after decades of conflict, “nation building” remains an all-too-literal description of the challenges still facing Afghanistan’s 32 million citizens.

Bush, European Leaders Support Additional Iran Sanctions

Merle Kellerhals — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 11:34:02 -0400

European leaders at the U.S.-EU Summit in Slovenia have agreed to a proposal to consider expanded sanctions on Iran, including greater restrictions on its banking industry, in an effort to restrain Iran's nuclear development program.

71 Nations Join to Prevent Nuclear Terror Attack

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 13:13:35 -0400

The threat of nuclear terrorism is bringing world leaders, the private sector and local officials together. A coalition of 71 countries is working to prepare for the consequences of an attack. While doing everything possible to prevent an attack, they are also preparing for the worst scenario.

Paris Conference to Showcase Afghanistan’s Progress

David McKeeby — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:53:51 -0400

An international conference will showcase Afghanistan’s achievements since 2001 and chart its course toward peace and prosperity. Representatives from more than 80 nations, international institutions and nongovernmental groups will meet in Paris June 12 for the International Conference in Support of Afghanistan.

First Lady Urges Redoubled Effort in Afghanistan

David McKeeby — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:36:31 -0400

Urging the world to “stand more strongly,” with Afghanistan, first lady Laura Bush visits the Central Asian nation to highlight signs of progress as well as continuing challenges there on the eve of an aid conference in Paris. “It’s very important for the international community to redouble their efforts,” she says.

New U.S. Public Diplomacy Head Cites “Arsenal of Persuasion”

MacKenzie C. Babb — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 12:49:07 -0400

Using the “arsenal of persuasion” -- soft power, smart power and public diplomacy -- is critical to beating terrorism, says James Glassman, the newly confirmed under secretary of state for public diplomacy and public affairs.

Rice to Meet with Israeli, Palestinian Negotiators

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 10:31:01 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is returning to Jerusalem and Ramallah to meet with the chief Palestinian and Israeli negotiators and assess progress in sensitive Middle East peace talks. In addition to the Middle East trip, Rice will attend the International Conference in Support of Afghanistan, June 12 in Paris.

Afghan Government Charts Challenges Ahead at Paris Conference

David McKeeby — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 17:26:36 -0400

Expanding security, confronting the influence of narcotics and corruption and coordinating international aid more effectively are expected to top the agenda as representatives from 80 nations and international organizations meet in Paris for the International Conference in Support of Afghanistan.

Bush Sees European Trip as Vital to Continuing Global Commitments

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 15:35:40 -0400

President Bush sees his final visit to Europe as a time to thank allies that have stood with the United States in Afghanistan and in Iraq during some of the most turbulent times of his presidency, but also as an opportunity to foster renewed commitment to vital issues affecting everyone.

Despite Rebuff, U.S. Helicopters Stand by to Help Burma

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 18:26:48 -0400

A U.S disaster assistance response team and heavy-lift helicopters are standing by in Thailand as part of an open-ended U.S. offer to assist relief operations in Burma. The offer of aid continues even though an earlier offer to fly aid inland to people in need was rebuffed by Burma’s military government.

International Community Monitoring Situation in Zimbabwe

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 16:58:40 -0400

The runoff election between Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe and opposition candidate Morgan Tsvangirai should move forward to avoid giving the current regime a victory it does not deserve, says U.S. Ambassador James McGee. "The Mugabe regime has entered into a campaign of violence and intimidation to ensure that people do not vote," he adds.

Bush To Begin Eight-Day Visit to Europe

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:36:13 -0400

President Bush will begin a visit to Europe that will focus on strengthening U.S.-European ties across an array of global issues. It will spotlight the U.S. role in supporting the transition of Europe after World War II, free and at peace, National Security Advisor Hadley says.

Security Council to Discuss Detention of Diplomats in Zimbabwe

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 09:36:50 -0400

The recent abuse of diplomats and an embassy employee by Zimbabwean forces is “absolutely outrageous behavior,” the United States says and it is raising the issue at the U.N. Security Council. But that outrage “is really nothing compared to what the Zimbabwean people suffer on a daily basis,” a U.S. official says.

A Better Africa for Africans Is Goal of U.S. Policy

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 18:52:25 -0400

The ultimate goal of U.S. foreign policy in Africa is to create a better environment for the Africans and better prospects for their future, and not to compete with the China for influence, U.S. officials tell a Senate subcommittee.

United States Does Not Seek Permanent Bases in Iraq

David McKeeby — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 17:11:31 -0400

The United States is not seeking to build permanent military bases in Iraq under a new agreement currently being negotiated, says Ambassador Ryan Crocker. “There isn’t going to be an agreement that infringes on Iraq’s sovereignty. The Iraqis are not going to accept it. And frankly, we wouldn’t want it.”

Casualties from Land Mines, Other Explosives in Sharp Decline

MacKenzie C. Babb — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 08:18:56 -0400

“In 2007, the annual number of reported casualties from land mines and explosive remnants of war worldwide decreased to 5,751, down sharply from approximately 26,000 just four years ago,” according to the 2008 edition of the State Department's To Walk the Earth in Safety, released June 3.

U.S. Navy Ships to Begin Withdrawing from Burma Coast June 5

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 14:38:04 -0400

The U.S. Navy will respond at a moment's notice to a request for humanitarian assistance for the Burmese people, but a small fleet of ships with relief supplies that has been sailing off the Southeast Asian nation's coast will begin leaving June 5, says Admiral Timothy Keating.

Syria Agrees to U.N. Inspection of Former Nuclear Site

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:59:40 -0400

The United States welcomed plans by the International Atomic Energy Agency to conduct an inquiry into a defunct Syrian nuclear reactor built with North Korean help, but cautioned Syrian officials to allow inspectors access to all suspected areas where nuclear activity may have been conducted.

Zimbabwe Suspends CARE Operations, Leaving 110,000 Without Food

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 16:27:49 -0400

Zimbabwe is depriving 110,000 people of food aid by suspending activities of the nongovernmental organization CARE. One-third of the population depends on international aid. The United States calls the decision, made as President Mugabe attends the U.N. World Food Security conference in Rome, “cruel irony.”

U.S. Official Says World Needs Tools to Fight Spread of Weapons

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:50:44 -0400

The State Department’s John Rood discusses recent initiatives taken by many nations to stop trafficking in deadly weapons and combat nuclear terrorism. At the same time that the United States works with partner-nations on such efforts, Rood said, it upholds previous arms-control treaties.

U.N. Wants Answers from Iran on Controversial Nuclear Program

David McKeeby — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 10:41:59 -0400

If Iran’s controversial nuclear program is as peaceful as Tehran claims, Mohammed ElBaradei, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, wants to know why it may have included side research into high explosives, warhead designs and other projects with “possible military dimensions.”

Death of Terrorist Leader Might Help End Colombia’s Civil Unrest

Eric Green — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 17:53:03 -0400

The death of Colombian rebel leader Manuel Marulanda might be a watershed event in Colombia, and could mark the beginning of the end of the country’s long-running civil unrest. Marulanda, the head of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, was wanted by the United States on cocaine trafficking charges.

East Asian Security Strengthened by U.S. Alliances

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:31:09 -0400

"For those who worry that Iraq and Afghanistan have distracted the United States from Asia and developments in this region, I would counter that we have never been more engaged with more countries," U.S. Defense Secretary Gates says. "The United States is a Pacific nation with an enduring role in Asia."

Navy Will Withdraw Rejected Relief Supply Ships from Burma

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 15:15:43 -0400

The United States will soon withdraw four U.S. Navy ships that have been stationed off the coast of Burma to provide much-needed humanitarian relief supplies to Cyclone Nargis survivors. "It's becoming pretty clear that the regime there is not going to let us help," Defense Secretary Gates says.

U.S. Intelligence Official Reports Major Gains Against Al-Qaida

David McKeeby — Fri, 30 May 2008 17:48:54 -0400

Al-Qaida has lost in Iraq and Saudi Arabia and continues losing ground elsewhere thanks to strengthening global counterterrorism partnerships and an increasing number of Islamic scholars and former militants who are questioning the terrorist group’s legitimacy, says CIA Director Michael Hayden.

Palestinian-American Leader Optimistic After Investment Meeting

Mofid Deak — Fri, 30 May 2008 16:04:05 -0400

Dr. Ziad Asali, the co-chair of the US-Palestinian Partnership, a public-private effort to support Palestinian economic and youth development, attended the recent Palestine Investment Conference in Bethlehem, the West Bank. Asali describes the conference in an interview with America.gov.

Peacekeeping Initiative Aims to Meet Growing Demand

Merle Kellerhals — Fri, 30 May 2008 10:08:59 -0400

Confronted with a shortage of capable peacekeepers and a limited ability to train soldiers and special police units for peace operations amid increasing demand, the United States and its Group of Eight partners launched an initiative to meet these needs.

Nations Endorse Strengthened Effort on Containing Weapons’ Spread

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 29 May 2008 17:56:41 -0400

On the eve of the fifth anniversary of the Proliferation Security Initiative, representatives from 88 countries endorsed a declaration to strengthen their ability to prevent or intercept the illicit transfer of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons; related delivery systems; and relevant technology.

Rice Urges More Debt Relief, Development Aid for Iraq

David McKeeby — Thu, 29 May 2008 17:40:32 -0400

Iraq’s improving security conditions are creating an opportunity for nations to help Iraqis make further progress in rebuilding their economy and developing democratic political institutions, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says at an Iraq review conference in Stockholm, Sweden.

Weapons Partnership Has Solid Record of Success, Says Bush

David McKeeby — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:27:16 -0400

Ninety nations have joined America to prevent the world’s most dangerous weapons from falling into terrorist hands, says President Bush, marking the fifth anniversary of the Proliferation Security Initiative and hailing the effort’s “solid record of success” in confronting the threat posed by WMD.

Former Afghan Land Mine Experts Retrain for New Employment

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 27 May 2008 14:14:16 -0400

Afghans have been so successful in removing land mines that they are in need of new jobs. This development has led to a series of State Department-funded workshops to provide job training in fields such as plumbing and carpentry -- peacetime skills that Afghanistan needs after so many decades of war.

U.S. Urges Technological Advancements for Cluster Munitions

Michael G. Buchanan — Tue, 27 May 2008 15:58:52 -0400

Specific goals of the Dublin Diplomatic Conference on Cluster Munitions are unproductive, says Ambassador Stephen Mull, as the United States seeks to work with its international partners to eradicate the full range of unexploded munitions left behind in the world’s conflict zones.

Burmese Activist’s Detainment Will Not Affect U.S. Disaster Aid

David McKeeby — Tue, 27 May 2008 15:21:03 -0400

As Burma’s military rulers extend the house arrest of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, President Bush expresses America’s disappointment with the decision as well as continued resolve to deliver aid to more than 1 million Burmese still recovering three weeks after a devastating tropical cyclone.

U.N. Agency Report Critical of Iran's Nuclear Cooperation

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 27 May 2008 17:20:11 -0400

A report by the International Atomic Energy Agency about Iran's nuclear development program is an indictment of that nation’s defiance of legitimate efforts to obtain clear information about the program, says U.S. Ambassador Gregory Schulte in Vienna, Austria.

U.S.-China Relations Show Progress

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 27 May 2008 16:07:36 -0400

The United States’ approach to building cooperation with China and influencing the choices its leaders are making about its role in the world is a long-term task, but respect, perseverance and patience are paying off, Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte says.

NATO Commander Says Afghan Illegal Drug Trade Aids Taliban

MacKenzie C. Babb — Fri, 23 May 2008 17:23:04 -0400

The illegal narcotics business so prevalent in southern Afghanistan poses, in some parts of the country, a greater threat than do insurgents, states General Dan McNeill, commander of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force, in a press teleconference from Kabul, Afghanistan.

Burma Allows Aid Workers, but Blocks Supply Ships

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 23 May 2008 16:31:27 -0400

The Burmese government has granted permission for international humanitarian aid workers to enter the country, including the hardest-hit Irrawaddy delta region, according to U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. But U.S., French and British naval ships will not be permitted to dock and unload supplies.

Nominee to Central Command Lists Success, Challenges in Iraq

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 22 May 2008 18:18:05 -0400

The nominee to be the next head of the U.S. Central Command, General David Petraeus, tells a Senate committee that the number of security incidents in Iraq has dropped to the lowest level in four years.

United States Welcomes Lebanon Agreement

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 21 May 2008 18:35:42 -0400

The Arab League-led initiative to end violence in Lebanon and help advance a stable government with a new president after an 18-month stalemate is a welcome development, a senior U.S. diplomat says. The United States believes that the government and its security forces should extend authority over all the country.

United States Will Increase Assistance to Pakistan

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 21 May 2008 16:31:13 -0400

Given the dangers Pakistan faces, it is essential that the United States provide a broad and integrated commitment of development, security and diplomatic assistance, a senior U.S. diplomat says. It must strengthen relations with the Pakistani people as it fights terrorists in the border regions, he says.

Burmese Response to Cyclone Aftermath Is Lacking, U.S. Envoy Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 21 May 2008 13:46:21 -0400

While the United States, the international community and relief agencies have responded by offering more than $100 million in assistance to Burma in the wake of Cyclone Nargis, the government's failure to accept outside help could lead to a second disaster, a senior U.S. diplomat says.

Palestine Investment Conference Set for May 21-23 in Bethlehem

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 20 May 2008 17:22:47 -0400

A gathering of political and business leaders at the Palestine Investment Conference aims to spur investor interest in the territories by showcasing business opportunities and projects ready to be launched, says Deputy Treasury Secretary Robert Kimmitt. The conference is being held in Bethlehem May 21-23.

United States Increases Humanitarian Assistance to China, Burma

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 20 May 2008 13:46:53 -0400

The United States is providing more than $815,000 in assistance to China following the May 12 earthquake in Sichuan province, including specialized search, rescue and recovery equipment, according to the U.S. Agency for International Development. The equipment is expected to arrive in Chengdu May 21.

Bush Finds Growing Mideast Agreement on Iran

David McKeeby — Mon, 19 May 2008 16:41:56 -0400

Progress toward Israeli-Palestinian peace dominated President Bush’s latest visit to the Middle East, but he also returned to Washington reporting growing agreement among regional leaders on Iran’s challenge to peace and security, citing actions by Iranian-backed groups in Lebanon, the Gaza Strip and Iraq.

Bush Reiterates Support for Palestinian State

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 19 May 2008 15:09:29 -0400

The Palestinian people have suffered for decades and have earned the right to their own homeland, President Bush says in Egypt at the World Economic Forum on the Middle East, and the United States strongly supports creation of a Palestinian state based on the rule of law and social justice.

United States Supports Saudi Arabian Civil Nuclear Program

David McKeeby — Fri, 16 May 2008 11:00:07 -0400

President Bush meets with Saudi King Abdullah to celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations and announce support for a civil nuclear energy program that will benefit Saudis, observe international standards and prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. The program will operate according to IAEA guidelines.

United States Rushing Aid Flights to China, Burma

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 16 May 2008 16:45:37 -0400

The United States will provide humanitarian relief to China in the wake of an earthquake that struck the Sichuan province area May 12. More U.S. relief assistance is being sent to Burma, and 500,000 metric tons of U.S. food aid is headed to North Korea.

United States Completes 13th Humanitarian Aid Flight to Burma

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 15 May 2008 08:31:00 -0400

The United States flew another five aid missions into Burma May 15, bringing the total number of flights to 13, but much more help is needed by the Burmese people, suffering in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis. The most recent flights delivered water, blankets, hygiene kits, mosquito netting and food.

Democracy Could Transform Middle East, Says Bush

David McKeeby — Thu, 15 May 2008 17:39:32 -0400

Democracy could bring a new future to the Middle East by undermining extremism and giving voice to millions of people across the region yearning for justice and tolerance, freedom and hope, says President Bush. “These values are the self-evident right of all people, of all religions, in all of the world,” he says.

Burma Cyclone Survivors Need World’s Help

David McKeeby — Wed, 14 May 2008 12:00:00 -0400

In Burma, more than a million people are in need of safe water and food two weeks after Cyclone Nargis struck, says USAID Administrator Henrietta Fore. “The extent of the devastation is vast and the relief efforts require the cooperation and coordination of the entire international humanitarian aid community.”

Bush Brings Optimism to Middle East

David McKeeby — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:25:59 -0400

Sixty years to the day of Israel's founding, President Bush calls on the nation to celebrate building the region's most dynamic democracy by working for peace in the Middle East. Bush will discuss progress toward peace in meetings in Israel, Saudi Arabia and Egypt during his tour of the region.

South Asia Offers Challenges, Opportunities, U.S. Diplomat Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 14 May 2008 16:19:21 -0400

The United States has a consistent policy for South Asia -- promoting democratic stability as the base from which to counter extremism and terrorism, says Ambassador Richard Boucher. "We do this by supporting the opportunities all people want, in education, health care and the economy," he says.

North Korean Nuclear Documents a Step Forward, United States Says

David McKeeby — Wed, 14 May 2008 09:49:04 -0400

As translators and analysts pore over 18,882 pages of newly released documents from North Korea, a top U.S. diplomat says the materials may represent “an important first step” toward a full declaration of Pyongyang’s nuclear activities, required under an agreement reached in the Six-Party Talks.

United States Condemns Jaipur, India, Bombing

David McKeeby — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:46:59 -0400

The United States condemns a series of bombings targeting markets and temples in India’s western city of Jaipur. “There is no justification for the murder of innocent people,” State Department spokesman Sean McCormack says.

America Stands with Lebanon, Bush Says

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 13 May 2008 18:46:01 -0400

The United States stands with the people of Lebanon against Hezbollah, says President Bush, who urges regional leaders to support Prime Minister Fouad Siniora and step up diplomatic pressure on the militants’ sponsors in Syria and Iran.

United States Offers Initial Earthquake Aid to China

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 13 May 2008 16:12:03 -0400

The United States is sending China an initial $500,000 toward disaster relief efforts after a massive earthquake that struck Sichuan province May 12. The United States also stands ready to send more aid as needed. Such aid could include specially trained disaster assistance response teams or search-and-rescue units.

Nuclear Weapons States Issue Strong Nonproliferation Signal

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 13 May 2008 10:13:10 -0400

Delegates to a conference to review the 40-year-old nuclear nonproliferation regime discuss challenges posed by Iranian and North Korean nuclear endeavors, according to a State Department official. At the end of the discussions, delegates say Iran’s nuclear program is “a matter of ongoing serious concern.”

First U.S. Disaster Aid Shipment Arrives in Burma

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 12 May 2008 17:35:58 -0400

Help is on the way for the people of Burma as authorities finally allow the first American C-130 cargo plane to land. The plane has humanitarian aid supplies for Irrawaddy Delta communities ravaged by Cyclone Nargis. And the United States is providing an additional $13 million in food aid and assistance.

North Korea Discloses New Nuclear Details

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 12 May 2008 16:16:17 -0400

North Korea has provided a top U.S. official with new details on its nuclear activities that may be an important first step in getting international efforts to stabilize the Korean Peninsula back on track. The newly released documents date back to 1986 and outline operations at the Yongbyon complex.

Bush to Promote Peace, Regional Dialogue During Visit to Mideast

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 12 May 2008 13:54:55 -0400

President Bush will mix symbolism and substance during a five-day, three-nation trip to the Middle East and will place considerable emphasis on the Israeli-Palestinian peace process. Bush is marking the 60th anniversary of Israel's founding and the 75th anniversary of U.S. ties with Saudi Arabia.

Weapons Removal and Safety Education Aided by U.S. Grants

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 12 May 2008 08:33:29 -0400

The dangers from exploding conventional weapons linger long after conflict ends. The State Department is distributing $4.4 million in fiscal year 2008 grants to 32 organizations around the world to destroy conventional weapons, mines and a variety of munitions and to help the victims.

Rice Condemns Terrorist Group Hezbollah’s Attacks in Lebanon

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 09 May 2008 10:59:20 -0400

The United States continues to offer full support to the legitimate Lebanese government and condemns the armed attack by Hezbollah and its allies, says Secretary of State Rice. "We condemn the use of force by illegitimate armed groups and call upon all parties to respect the rule of law," she says.

Merida Initiative Takes Aim at Transnational Crime

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 09 May 2008 10:55:53 -0400

Under the Merida Initiative, the United States, Mexico and several Central American countries are confronting the shared threat of transnational organized crime. A U.S. diplomat says the United States has a strategic interest in reinforcing this partnership to check illicit activity in the region.

U.S.-Russian Relations Reflect Differences, Concerns and Promise

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 09 May 2008 18:01:49 -0400

U.S. and Russian relations have notable concerns, but also a degree of promise. And the United States looks forward to working with the new administration of President Dmitry Medvedev, says a senior U.S. diplomat. The relationship will be guided by the Strategic Framework Declaration.

Burma Agrees to Allow U.S. Cargo Plane with Relief Supplies

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 09 May 2008 16:28:11 -0400

Seven days after Cyclone Nargis slammed into Burma's densely populated Irrawaddy Delta killing thousands and displacing thousands more, the ruling military junta has given permission for the United States to send in a military C-130 cargo plane with emergency relief supplies on May 12, a White House spokesman says.

Bibliography

Richard Huckaby — Thu, 08 May 2008 14:34:24 -0400

Trade and Economics as a Force in U.S. Foreign Relations

Richard Huckaby — Thu, 08 May 2008 12:16:48 -0400

Emerging as a world leader in the 20th century, the United States, while continuing to pursue its own economic interests abroad, drew upon its Enlightenment roots and promoted the ideals of freedom, democracy, and open markets in the belief that “free nations trading freely” would result in the improvement of the human condition.

After the Cold War

Richard Huckaby — Thu, 08 May 2008 12:13:02 -0400

When the Cold War came to an end in 1989 with the dismantling of the Berlin Wall, when the countries of Eastern Europe regained independence, and when the Soviet Union disintegrated, there was a feeling that universal peace had descended on Earth. The fear of a war in which weapons of mass destruction would be used had vanished.

Brussels Universal and International Exposition (EXPO 1958)

Richard Huckaby — Thu, 08 May 2008 12:09:31 -0400

Perhaps the best known international exhibition in the Cold War period was the 1958 Exposition Universelle et Internationale de Bruxelles (Expo '58). Noticeable amid the general exuberance of the fair was the obvious tension between the United States and the Soviet Union, who used their pavilions to promote their rival political systems.

The Marshall Plan: A Strategy That Worked

Richard Huckaby — Thu, 08 May 2008 12:07:30 -0400

The myth of the Marshall Plan has become as forceful as its true historical legacy. From a one-paragraph suggestion by Secretary of State George Marshall at a Harvard graduation, had sprung a program that "evolved swiftly into a vast, spirited, international adventure: as the enterprise unfolded, it became many things to many men."

The Panama Canal: A Vital Maritime Link for the World

Richard Huckaby — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:13:27 -0400

When the SS Ancon sailed across the Isthmus of Panama in 1914, it ushered in the transformation of the American continent and the creation of a vital sea link for the entire world. David McCullough has said that its construction was of sweeping historic importance, and it has impacted the lives of tens of thousands of people.

U.S. Backs Peaceful Solutions, Democratic Leaders in Middle East

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 08 May 2008 09:57:49 -0400

U.S. policy for the Middle East is predicated on support for peaceful solutions and a strengthening of democratic leaders against extremists who use violence, repress fundamental freedoms and seek to undermine U.S. and allied interests, a State Department official tells Congress.

Burma Aid Is About Saving Lives, Not About Politics, Rice Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 08 May 2008 08:11:13 -0400

The United States and other nations, the United Nations, international relief agencies and nongovernmental organizations are prepared to bring considerable resources to Burma in the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis, Henrietta Fore, administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development, said May 8.

Democracy Transforming the Americas, Says Rice

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 08 May 2008 16:36:32 -0400

Democracy has transformed the Americas over the past decade, says Secretary of State Rice. The United States has fostered partnerships with countries in the Western Hemisphere through aid programs that complement trade agreements, debt forgiveness and by promoting trade and development.

Bush Prepares for a Six-Day Middle East Visit

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 07 May 2008 09:58:34 -0400

President Bush will use his six-day trip to the Middle East to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to a lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, and to meet separately with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon and Iraq.

U.S. Seeks Social Justice and Security in the Americas, Says Bush

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 07 May 2008 18:20:57 -0400

The United States is committed to partnerships with its neighbors, to promote social justice, opportunity and security for the Americas, says President Bush, and make the region “a place where poverty gives way to prosperity.”

U.S. Seeks Neighbors' Help on Sending Disaster Aid Teams to Burma

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 07 May 2008 16:51:33 -0400

The United States is asking Burma's neighbors to convince the ruling junta to permit disaster assessment teams into the country so that humanitarian relief efforts can begin the recovery from "a humanitarian disaster of immense scope." The U.S. Embassy says the death toll may have reached 100,000 people.

A Case Study: The Mythology of Martyrdom in Iraq

Susan Doner — Tue, 06 May 2008 10:34:16 -0400

Through online video clips and biographies of suicide bombers, Iraqi jihadists play on themes of humiliation, collusion, and redemption to demonize their enemies and motivate their cadres to make "heroic" sacrifices. These emotive elements are intended to galvanize support not just from activists, but from the broader Muslim public as well.

New Paradigms for 21st Century Conflict

Susan Doner — Tue, 06 May 2008 10:10:23 -0400

If the confrontation with terrorism is based on long-standing trends, it follows that it may be a protracted, generational, or multigenerational struggle. Thus, we need a grand strategy for combating terrorism that can be sustained by the American people, successive U.S. administrations, key allies, and partners worldwide.

Mass-Media Theater

Susan Doner — Tue, 06 May 2008 10:08:37 -0400

Modern terrorism can be understood in terms of the same production requirements as any theatrical engagement: meticulous attention paid to script preparation, cast selection, sets, props, role-playing, and minute-by-minute stage management. Terrorists feed the media, both directly and indirectly.

Bibliography

Susan Doner — Tue, 06 May 2008 17:34:47 -0400

Internet Resources

Susan Doner — Tue, 06 May 2008 17:34:18 -0400

A Strategic Assessment of Progress Against the Terrorist Threat

Susan Doner — Tue, 06 May 2008 17:26:49 -0400

Cooperative international efforts in the world community's conflict with transnational terrorists have produced genuine security improvements. But despite this undeniable progress, major challenges remain.

U.S. Provides $3.25 Million to Aid Burma Cyclone Victims

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 06 May 2008 16:37:26 -0400

The United States is providing $3.25 million in humanitarian aid to Burma and is prepared to do considerably more if the ruling military junta would permit, the White House says. Such additional assistance could include providing military medical teams and transport for large quantities of emergency supplies, President Bush says.

United States, Russia Sign Civil Nuclear Pact

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 06 May 2008 15:50:28 -0400

Once nuclear rivals but today partners, the United States and Russia sign a pact allowing development of nuclear energy for civilian purposes and strengthening efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation. The agreement is signed by U.S. Ambassador William Burns and Rosatom Director Sergey Kiriyenko May 6 in Moscow.

Terrorism, Crime Often Linked, Says Report

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 06 May 2008 13:39:36 -0400

While recent years have seen a drop in terrorism in the Western Hemisphere, a U.S. report highlights a new challenge: the growing link between terrorists and transnational organized crime. Terrorist activities are funded by contributions from individuals, false charities and front organizations and, increasingly, from criminal activity.

Improvements in Palestinians’ Lives Would Aid Mideast Diplomacy

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 05 May 2008 16:50:38 -0400

A Middle East peace settlement by January 2009 remains possible, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, if negotiators redouble their efforts to translate diplomatic progress into tangible improvements in the daily lives of Palestinians. Rice concluded visits to London, Israel and the West Bank to evaluate the progress of the peace talks.

World Population Growth Poses Security Challenges

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 05 May 2008 08:06:27 -0400

With the world’s population expected to reach 9 billion by mid-century, there will be significant regional and global security stresses, says the director of the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency. Michael Hayden discusses the rise of Asia and especially China and changes in the U.S.-European strategic alliance stemming from population growth.

Rice Urges Arab States to Do More to Help Palestinians

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 02 May 2008 11:27:28 -0400

As Mideast peace talks continue, nations must join the United States in efforts to improve the daily lives of Palestinians and help them to build a future state, says Secretary of State Rice. Countries with resources and an interest in the establishment of a Palestinian state need to provide those resources now, she says.

Bush Freezes Burma’s State-Owned U.S. Assets

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 02 May 2008 16:17:32 -0400

President Bush expands U.S. economic sanctions on Burma ahead of its May 10 referendum on what Bush calls “a dangerously flawed constitution.” The sanctions add all Burmese state-owned corporations to the existing list of individuals and entities whose assets have been frozen by U.S. Treasury officials.

Zimbabwe Final Vote Tally Has “Serious Credibility Problems”

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:55:28 -0400

The State Department says the official vote tally of Zimbabwe’s March 29 election has “serious credibility problems,” due to delays and irregularities. A runoff presidential vote is impossible while the leading opposition candidate and his supporters face abuse by President Robert Mugabe’s government, according to spokesman Tom Casey.

Africa-Centered Military Command Designed to Listen and Respond

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:34:17 -0400

The African continent faces a raft of security challenges. While the United States always has interacted with Africa through diplomatic missions, defense attachés and the Combined Joint Task Force for the Horn of Africa, the focus now has been sharpened through AFRICOM, which will be responsible for activities in 33 African countries.

Iran Is Most Significant State Sponsor of Terrorism, Report Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:13:39 -0400

Without state sponsors, terrorist groups would have far greater difficulty finding the funds, weapons, safe havens and recruits needed to plan and conduct acts of violence, the State Department says in releasing the 2007 Country Reports on Terrorism. Of the five countries listed, Iran remains the most significant state sponsor of terrorism.

United States Identifies 42 Foreign Terrorist Organizations

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:12:18 -0400

The State Department identifies 42 Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTO) in its 2007 Country Reports on Terrorism, released April 30. Designation as an FTO blocks a group's assets held in U.S. banks, denies visas to members and criminalizes the provision of support or resources to the group by U.S. citizens or others within U.S. jurisdiction.

New Report Showcases Global Progress Against Terrorism

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:10:18 -0400

International gains against terrorist cells in 2007 highlight the continuing need for a complex, comprehensive and collaborative strategy against terrorism, says State Department counterterrorism coordinator Dell Dailey in introducing the department’s reports on terrorism and counterterrorism activity in 2007.

Terrorism Report Highlights Continuing Global Challenge

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 11:08:29 -0400

Improving international cooperation allowed new gains against terrorism in 2007, but shifting terrorist tactics, the role of state sponsors such as Iran and the pursuit of weapons of mass destruction underline a continuing security challenge, according to an annual State Department report on global terrorism.

Talks to Continue Despite North Korean Proliferation Activities

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:34:53 -0400

The United States remains committed to the Six-Party Talks process despite revelations by U.S. intelligence officials that North Korea was helping Syria build a nuclear reactor. The multilateral process is “the appropriate and best way forward” on ending the threat of nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula, the State Department says.

Palestine Investment Conference Set for May 21-23

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:28:23 -0400

The Palestinian Authority is convening the Palestine Investment Conference May 21-23, in an effort to improve economic and social conditions in the territories, which is a critical component of the broader Middle East peace process. The conference is intended to help increase investment in the Palestinian economy.

United States, Russia Building New Economic Partnerships

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:22:44 -0400

On September 6, 2007, Muscovite Alyona Mikhailova made history by ordering a cappuccino, the first order taken at the first Starbucks coffee shop in Russia. For government officials and business leaders attending the new U.S.-Russia Economic Dialogue in Washington, it also signified their countries' deepening and expanding trade ties.

Rice Plans Full Agenda During Middle East Trip

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:29:01 -0400

In a five-day trip to Britain and the Middle East, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice aims to shore up Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, and discuss financial aid for the Palestinian Authority with allies. Rice will travel to Britain, Israel and the West Bank from May 1-5, the State Department says.

Syria Did Not Disclose Building Nuclear Reactor

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 16:48:33 -0400

Syria did not tell the International Atomic Energy Agency it was building a nuclear reactor in a remote area of eastern Syria with help from North Korean nuclear scientists and engineers, and after the reactor was destroyed in September 2007, made every effort to bury the evidence, White House press secretary Dana Perino says.

Time for Zimbabwe’s Neighbors to Exercise Leverage, U.S. Says

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 16:24:40 -0400

With forces loyal to Zimbabwe’s President Robert Mugabe preparing to use severe force against his political opposition, the State Department urges the country’s neighbors to use “maximum leverage” to help the country’s citizens avoid a dramatic crisis. This comes after riot police raided the headquarters of the opposition.

United States Reducing Nuclear Weapons at an Extraordinary Pace

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 16:24:29 -0400

The three presidential candidates support nuclear arms cuts and strengthening the 1970 treaty governing nuclear nonproliferation. Current officials say the United States has the lowest level of operationally deployed strategic nuclear weapons since the 1950s after having retired or eliminated 13 types of nuclear weapons since 1992.

Humanitarian Crisis in Darfur Worsening, U.S. Envoy Says

Merle D. Kellerhals — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 11:35:19 -0400

The humanitarian crisis in the Darfur region of Sudan is worsening and the number of killed and displaced people continues to grow, reflecting an atmosphere of continuing violence, a senior U.S. diplomat says. This devastating conflict has left 2.5 million people internally displaced and another 250,000 refugees in Chad.

Palestinian State Remains Leading U.S. Priority, Says Bush

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 11:29:57 -0400

Tough negotiations remain ahead for Palestinians and Israelis working for peace, but President Bush remains confident they still can set the stage for a two-state solution by January 2009. “The Palestinian state is a high priority for me and my administration,” Bush says in welcoming Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to the White House.

Forty-Year-Old Nonproliferation Treaty Under a Microscope

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:47:02 -0400

Nations that are party to the 1970 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty will gather in Switzerland for two weeks beginning April 28 to discuss the status of the venerable treaty regime. It will be the second of three meetings before they must make formal recommendations about the NPT during a review in 2010.

Public-Private Partnerships Foster Innovative Solutions

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 15:41:01 -0400

What would you do if you were offered $1 million to build a robot vehicle that could drive at speed, park, avoid pedestrians and cars driven by professional racers, and obey traffic laws? A Virginia Tech student jumped at the chance to team with professional engineers outfitting a car with electronics and computers to do just that.

AFRICOM Is Historic Step in U.S.-Africa Relationship

Charles W. Corey — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 18:24:46 -0400

The U.S. military’s Africa Command, known as AFRICOM, is “history in the making” and -- like the establishment of the Africa Bureau at the U.S. Department of State 50 years ago -- it is a vital step in an ever closer relationship between Africa and the United States.

States’ Negroponte Urges China to Begin Dialogue with Dalai Lama

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 18:31:41 -0400

The United States is deeply concerned about reports of violence and arrests in Tibet, where stability will not be possible unless China takes action to address long-standing grievances among the Tibetan people, say top U.S. diplomats, including Special Envoy Paula Dobriansky.

North American Leaders Defend Free Trade Pact

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 07:55:10 -0400

Since the United States, Canada and Mexico established the North American Free Trade Agreement in 1994, trade has tripled, laying a firm foundation for expanded regional cooperation, President Bush says. Bush and the leaders of Canada and Mexico praise the trade pact following their meeting in New Orleans.

U.N. Looking for Ways to Enhance African Peacekeeping

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 11:36:49 -0400

U.N. peacekeeping operations should have clearly defined goals and specific missions, timelines and budgets, and they should not be a substitute for ending conflicts or an excuse for delaying ways to resolve them. Part of the problem is that U.N. resources are overstretched and the supply of well-equipped peacekeepers does not meet demand.

Direct Dialogue Is Way Forward in Tibet, Says United States

Amor Safi — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 11:35:46 -0400

Paula J. Dobriansky, U.S. special coordinator for Tibetan issues and under secretary of state for democracy and global affairs, authors an op-ed for the Washington Post April 22, 2008, on U.S. efforts to promote dialogue between the Dalai Lama and Chinese leaders.

U.S. Supports African Stance Against Arms Shipments to Zimbabwe

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 18:14:14 -0400

The United States does not believe that shipping Chinese arms to Zimbabwe is in anyone's best interests, a U.S. official says. The United States urged countries in southern Africa not to unload a cargo of Chinese assault rifles, mortars and ammunition destined for landlocked Zimbabwe.

Meetings Signal Iraq's Regional Reintegration, Rice Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 17:12:44 -0400

The expanded Iraq neighbors meeting has emerged as a forum for the international community to address political, economic and security challenges facing Iraq and the region. Secretary Rice says that the United States remains committed to fostering a sovereign, democratic and prosperous Iraq at peace with itself and its neighbors.

U.S., South Korea Want North to Declare Nature of Weapons Program

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 11:37:24 -0400

Once North Korea declares the details of its nuclear weapons development program in a verifiable way, then the next steps in the process can be determined, say Presidents Bush and Lee Myung-bak of South Korea. The six-nation talks have made considerable progress in getting North Korea to dismantle its Yongbyon facility.

U.S., Allies Want Iran to Abandon Nuclear Weapons Research

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 09:59:28 -0400

From its location at the crossroads of the Middle East and South Asia, Iran could threaten three continents and eventually the United States in the next decade if it had nuclear weapons. However, its greatest threat is to moderate states within the region. The U.S. goal is to convince Iran to abandon its nuclear weapons ambitions forever.

U.S. Marks Anniversary of 1983 Beirut Embassy Bombing

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 16:24:06 -0400

President Bush marks the 25th anniversary of the 1983 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, by calling on nations to condemn terrorism. "All nations should condemn such brutal attacks and recognize that the purposeful targeting of civilians is immoral and unjustifiable," the president says.

Rice Urges Zimbabweans to Release Election Results

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 16:14:49 -0400

The United States stands with the Zimbabwean people in carrying out the results of recent national elections, but it also calls on the government to release election results immediately. Elections were held March 29, but the results have yet to be released. Secretary Rice says the longer the results are held, the more suspicion grows.

United States Values Strong Ties with Canada, Mexico

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 11:48:37 -0400

The United States has no closer neighbors than Canada and Mexico, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, making the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America a unique regional forum on trade and security issues. The relationship among the three countries is “one of the most critical” in American foreign policy, Rice says.

U.S. Wants Full Accounting of North Korea's Nuclear Programs

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 11:38:21 -0400

The Six-Party Talks with North Korea over its nuclear weapons program have shown progress, but there is still reason for caution and skepticism. The United States and its partners require "a full account from North Korea of all its nuclear programs, including uranium and nuclear proliferation activities," Secretary Condoleezza Rice says.

Bush, Great Britain’s Brown Call for New Iran Sanctions

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 11:24:18 -0400

New international sanctions are needed to convince Iran to suspend its controversial nuclear program, join international talks and benefit from a standing offer of support for a civil nuclear program, say President Bush and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown at a joint press conference in Washington.

Iraq Needs More Support from Neighbors, Rice Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 16:59:12 -0400

Iraq's fellow Arab states must fulfill their promises to increase their engagement -- diplomatic, economic, social and cultural -- with Iraq's government and people, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says on the eve of her departure for an Iraq neighbors’ conference in Kuwait.

Food Crisis Has Long-Term Global Challenges, Rice Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 14:00:03 -0400

President Bush is seeking an additional $350 million from Congress to provide immediate emergency food assistance, but the current food crisis has long-term global challenges, says Secretary Condoleezza Rice. "We need to encourage farmers and transporters, markets and governments to meet this urgent worldwide challenge," she says.

Kenya’s New Coalition Government Is Important Step Forward

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 11:39:14 -0400

The State Department praises the agreement between Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki and opposition party leader Raila Odinga to share power in a coalition government as a courageous decision that will move the country forward. Violence had swept across Kenya in the aftermath of its December 2007 election.

Support for Displaced Iraqis Urged by U.S. Official

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 18:03:39 -0400

Iraqi families displaced by conflict need more help, says a U.S. diplomat recently returned from the Middle East and Europe, where he urged nations to join the United States in lending continued support. “This is a shared responsibility and the stakes are high,” says James Foley, State Department coordinator for Iraqi refugee issues.

U.S. Committed to Building New Security Partnerships

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 11:39:50 -0400

America’s diplomats and military personnel are coming together in new ways to help friends and allies better safeguard their countries, improve area livelihoods and build regional security. Civilian and military experts are "building partner capacity" in many areas, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says.

African Development Bank, U.S. Agency to Aid Small Businesses

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 17:55:49 -0400

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the African Development Bank Group agree to mobilize up to $125 million in private funds for small- and medium-size African entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. A minimum 25 percent of the businesses helped will be owned by women, USAID says.

Bush Orders $200 Million for Emergency Food Relief

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 12:43:45 -0400

Responding aggressively to a worsening global food crisis, President Bush orders some $200 million in emergency U.S. food assistance to address the impact of rising commodity prices on U.S. emergency food aid programs, meet unanticipated food aid needs in Africa and elsewhere, and help relieve political instability in some regions.

Rising Global Food Prices Likely to Continue, Say Experts

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:10:15 -0400

Sharply rising costs for food staples and fuel are leading to deadly clashes in impoverished countries and likely will continue for some time, international experts say. Rising prices are attributed to a combination of factors, including reduced production, low food stocks, drought and higher energy and transportation costs.

From Profiles to Pathways: The Road to Recruitment

Susan Doner — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 10:33:35 -0400

In order to move beyond unhelpful debates about profiling, one should consider what involvement in terrorism implies. Involvement in terrorism is a complex process, comprising discrete phases that could be encapsulated as an individual engages in a gradual process of accommodation and assimilation across incrementally experienced stages.

Women as Victims and Victimizers

Susan Doner — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 10:32:53 -0400

Although women have long been involved in terrorist movements, they have recently migrated from mostly supportive roles to more active, operational ones, including suicide bombers. This growing role of women in terrorism has caused new questions to surface.

Collective Identity: Hatred Bred in the Bone

Susan Doner — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 08:16:33 -0400

The most powerful lens through which to view terrorist behavior is that of group, organizational, and social psychology, with a particular emphasis on collective identity. This article looks at how a group identity can rationalize an individual’s extremist behavior.

Terrorism: A Brief History

Susan Doner — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:27:32 -0400

A leading terrorism expert provides some historical context for the phenomenon of modern-day terrorism. As terrorism is one of the oldest forms of violence it is interesting that contemporary terrorism differs in some essential respects from that perpetrated in earlier times.

A Form of Psychological Warfare

Susan Doner — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:23:20 -0400

Terrorism is intended to have psychological effects beyond the immediate victims, intimidating or otherwise affecting the behavior of a much wider target audience. Terrorism is the deliberate creation and exploitation of fear in the attainment of political change, and is thus undeniably a form of psychological warfare.

Terrorism and Children

Susan Doner — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:22:38 -0400

Award winning journalist and film producer Obaid-Chinoy chronicles the many losses that children suffer when their societies are torn apart by terrorism, and their subsequent vulnerability to being recruited into extremism.

About This Issue

Susan Doner — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:21:54 -0400

Asian Partners Should Help and Lead, Negroponte Says

Deidra Avendasora — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 19:36:23 -0400

“America is a Pacific nation, and our prosperity and global stability are increasingly tied to that of Asia. The goal we seek … is an Asia that is growing in peace, prosperity, and freedom -- and we will continue our work with Asia’s leaders and its people to achieve that goal together,” says Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte.

Surge Puts Iraq Back on Track, Says Bush

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 16:26:35 -0400

Improving security conditions in Iraq reflect a “major strategic shift,” says President Bush, which is setting the stage for Iraqis to continue making political and economic progress and the United States to transition toward a supporting role. “Our job in the period ahead is to stand with the Iraqi government,” Bush says.

Assessment Needed Before Reducing Iraq Troops, U.S. Officials Say

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 15:21:15 -0400

U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker and General David Petraeus, military commander of U.S.-led coalition forces in Iraq, emphasize in a press briefing that there are significant political and security components to be evaluated before deciding how rapidly and how many forces can be withdrawn from Iraq.

Bush Administration Seeks $37 Billion To Bolster Diplomacy

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 12:11:52 -0400

President Bush is seeking more than $37 billion from Congress in fiscal year 2009 spending to strengthen U.S. diplomacy by helping countries build democracy, recover from conflicts and improve lives and livelihoods by confronting disease and poverty. Speaking before a Senate Appropriations subcommittee, Secretary Rice outlines key priorities.

Kenyan Leaders Urged to Resume Talks on Coalition Government

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 15:23:07 -0400

The United States is encouraging Kenyan leaders to resume talks aimed at creating a power-sharing Cabinet and a coalition government, say senior U.S. officials. The United States and the entire international community are ready to assist a coalition government, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Recent Developments Signal Progress in Iraq, Envoy Crocker Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 13:52:34 -0400

There has been progress in Iraq over the past seven months, though immense challenges remain and gains have been uneven and frustratingly slow, says U.S. Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker. "Sustaining that progress will require continuing U.S. resolve and commitment. What has been achieved is substantial, but it is also reversible," he says.

NATO Summit Concludes with Commitments for Future Work

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 18:16:39 -0400

NATO transacted important business during its 59th summit in Romania that goes well beyond extending membership invitations to Albania and Croatia. The alliance affirmed its shared, long-term commitment to Afghanistan by agreeing to a comprehensive political-military strategic plan endorsed by its members and by NATO security partners.

Bush, Putin Chart Course Ahead for U.S.-Russian Relations

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 18:06:56 -0400

President Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin chart the course ahead for their successors in their final presidential meeting, including steps toward a missile defense system jointly operated by Europe, Russia, and the United States. Bush and Putin also agree to step up talks on building a jointly managed regional missile defense system.

Summit Blog

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 10:32:19 -0400

A delegate to the Young Atlanticist Summit, held in conjunction with the NATO Summit, records her observations about the activities in Bucharest.

U.N. Chief Pledges Long-Term Effort in Afghanistan

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 17:41:16 -0400

The United Nations will not leave Afghanistan as long as its presence is needed by the Afghan people, U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says at the NATO Summit in Romania. Ban also expresses confidence in the new strategy NATO has developed to give its International Security Assistance Force a more comprehensive approach in Afghanistan.

NATO-Russia Council Concludes 2008 Bucharest Summit

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 17:18:46 -0400

NATO leaders and Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirm areas of security cooperation, including airspace management, civil emergency planning, scientific cooperation and environmental security, and Russia announces that it will open a new shipping corridor through its territory for nonmilitary goods in support of NATO’s mission in Afghanistan.

NATO Foreign Ministers to Reconsider Ukraine's Membership

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 15:33:55 -0400

NATO leaders say that Ukraine's request to join the security alliance will be reconsidered at a foreign ministers’ meeting in December. A post-meeting communiqué of the NATO-Ukraine Commission says it "agreed that Ukraine will become a member of NATO." President Bush has announced U.S. support of both Ukraine and Georgia for membership.

Cooperation Often Overlooked in U.S.-Russian Relations

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 14:44:49 -0400

From his first meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Slovakia in 2001 to what will likely be his final official visit with the Russian leader in the Black Sea coastal resort of Sochi, President Bush has stressed the importance of building a close connection while navigating the complex relationship between Washington and Moscow.

NATO Welcomes Albania and Croatia to Alliance

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 10:53:26 -0400

Leaders from NATO’s 26 member states unanimously welcome Albania and Croatia into the trans-Atlantic alliance, a move that President Bush says will further the cause of freedom and security in Europe. “Both these nations have demonstrated the ability and the willingness to provide strong and enduring contributions to NATO,” Bush says.

NATO Pledges Long-Term Security Commitment to Afghanistan

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 18:00:07 -0400

The 26-nation NATO security alliance has pledged to provide a shared, long-term commitment to the security and economic prosperity of Afghanistan. "In helping the Afghan people build security today, we are defending our basic values we all share," an alliance communiqué says. Afghanistan has been a central issue at the 2008 NATO Summit.

U.N. Peacekeeping Vital to International Security

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 17:29:06 -0400

U.N. peacekeeping operations serve as crucial tools in addressing a wide array of threats to international peace and security, especially where direct military involvement by the United States is not necessary or appropriate, a senior U.S. diplomat says at a congressional hearing on U.S. support and funding for such operations.

Czech Republic, U.S. Agree to Missile Defense Radar Installation

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 14:56:04 -0400

Advanced tracking radar technology -- key to protecting central European nations against long-range ballistic missiles launched from trouble spots -- will be installed in the Czech Republic by 2012, according to a joint U.S.-Czech communiqué issued during the 59th NATO Summit in Bucharest, Romania.

NATO Securing a Future of Freedom, Bush Says

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 16:43:02 -0400

As a community of democracies, NATO has helped Europe become a continent that is whole, free and at peace, but alliance members -- “no longer a static alliance focused on defending Europe from a Soviet tank invasion” -- must work to meet the security challenges of the 21st century, President Bush says on the eve of the 2008 NATO Summit.

NATO Expansion Decisions Rooted in Shared Democratic Values

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 16:40:30 -0400

As Albania, Croatia and the Republic of Macedonia look ahead to membership at the Bucharest, Romania, NATO Summit, a review of NATO’s expansion shows how the organization has remained true to its roots as a security alliance based on shared democratic values while meeting changing security challenges, experts say.

Protecting Space Environment Remains a Critical U.S. Interest

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 16:03:34 -0400

As outer space becomes increasingly vital to economic prosperity and international security, there is a growing need for finding new ways to deal with debris caused by rocket explosions and anti-satellite testing of past decades, a U.S. official tells a U.N. meeting in Geneva.

U.S. Supports NATO Membership for Ukraine and Georgia

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 10:51:19 -0400

Ukraine and Georgia can count on U.S. support when they make an initial bid for NATO membership at the 2008 Summit being held in Bucharest, Romania, President Bush says. "I think it's in our interests as NATO members, and I think it's in Ukrainian and Georgian interests, as well," he tells Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko April 1.

New Agreement May Improve Palestinian Livelihoods, Says Rice

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 10:30:57 -0400

A new Israeli-Palestinian agreement easing border restrictions for Palestinians in the West Bank will improve the livelihoods of area residents and may help negotiators make further progress toward Mideast peace, according to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Bush Accepts Putin’s Invitation for Talks in Russia

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 14:09:45 -0400

President Bush will hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin after Bush attends the upcoming NATO Summit in Bucharest, Romania. In the April 6 meeting, the two leaders are expected to discuss missile defense and the future of U.S.-Russian relations.

Surge Helped Restart Iraqi Political, Economic Life, Bush Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 16:44:29 -0400

The surge in U.S. forces across critical hot spots in Iraq in 2007 has helped Iraqis improve security and restart political and economic life, and is bringing the United States ever closer to a strategic victory against radical extremism and terrorism, President Bush says.

Delegates to Upcoming NATO Summit Face Full Agenda

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 17:05:35 -0400

Like NATO summits of the past, the 2008 meeting in Romania, is composed of familiar elements -- consensus building, defining priorities, creating messages and laying the foundation for the future. But it is also about shared values and common goals. America.gov looks at the official agenda for the summit and at meetings and related activities.

Bahrain, United States to Cooperate on Nuclear Energy

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 18:54:47 -0400

The United States and Bahrain will cooperate in a civil nuclear energy program that will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, meet future energy needs and prevent the spread of nuclear technology that could be used in making weapons. The new pact is discussed by President Bush and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa at the White House.

U.S. Supports Albania, Croatia, Macedonia for NATO Membership

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 13:22:40 -0400

NATO expansion has been a major success in enhancing the trans-Atlantic security alliance and in promoting democratic institutions and challenging corrupt practices that inhibit economic development, says a senior U.S. diplomat. These successes would be enhanced by bringing Albania, Croatia and Macedonia into the alliance, he adds.

NATO Action Plan Leads to Alliance Membership

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 13:21:34 -0400

NATO has an established route for aspiring members of the security alliance. They must be able to show that they can further the principles of the 1949 treaty that created NATO and contribute to security in the Euro-Atlantic area, as well as meet certain political, economic and military goals laid out in the 1995 Study on NATO Enlargement.

Additional Resources

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 12:36:16 -0400

Afghanistan Security Mission

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 12:34:54 -0400

Ambassador Khalilzad on Afghanistan’s New Deal

Amor Safi — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 12:11:37 -0400

Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad comments March 20 in a New York Times op-ed on the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.

Six-Party Talks Await Complete, Correct Data from North Korea

Derek Repp — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 12:06:34 -0400

The stalemate in the second phase of the Six-Party Talks on eliminating nuclear weapons from the Korean Peninsula results from not getting North Korea to agree to a "complete and correct" declaration of all its nuclear materials, capacity, and knowledge -- without exceptions -- says Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Hill.

Bush Calls Success in Iraq a Strategic Victory Against Terror

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 08:07:41 -0400

Five years ago the United States led an international coalition into Iraq to topple a brutal dictator and free 27 million people. Many challenges remain in building a new democracy, but the United States will stand with the Iraqi people because Iraq’s success will be a strategic victory against extremists, says President Bush.

United States Seeks Negotiations on Weapons Treaty

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 08:00:26 -0400

The United States is seeking agreement in the Conference on Disarmament to negotiate a treaty that would ban production of fissile material used to make nuclear weapons and other explosive devices. Such a measure would enhance international security, says U.S. disarmament conference representative Christina Rocca.

Somali Extremists Added to U.S. Terrorist List

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 14:37:00 -0400

Al-Shabaab, a Somalia-based extremist group with known ties to al-Qaida, is named as the latest addition to the State Department’s list of foreign terrorist organizations. “Al-Shabaab has used intimidation and violence to undermine the Somali government and threatened civil society activists,” a State Department statement says.

U.S. Will Take Relations with Muslim World to “Next Level”

Amor Safi — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 18:55:19 -0400

America.gov interviews Sada Cumber, newly named U.S. special envoy to the Organization of the Islamic Conference.

Rice Asks Chinese Authorities to Show Restraint in Tibet

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 12:23:49 -0400

The United States is urging all sides in recent civil strife between protesters and Chinese authorities in Tibet to refrain from further violence. "We call on the Chinese government to exercise restraint in dealing with these protests, and we strongly urge all sides to refrain from violence," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says.

American Doctor Teams with Marines to Save Iraqi Girl

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 18:09:24 -0400

U.S. Marines on a routine patrol in Haditha, Iraq, were looking for signs of enemy activity when they found something entirely different: a 2-year-old Iraqi girl with a serious and potentially fatal heart defect. Their compassionate actions helped save her life.

Provincial Reconstruction Teams Reconnecting Afghanistan

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 15:31:17 -0400

Security operations may dominate the news from Afghanistan, but behind the headlines are the diplomats, soldiers and civilian experts of the provincial reconstruction teams (PRTs) who are helping the people of Afghanistan make unmistakable progress rebuilding the country after decades of violence and oppressive rule.

Kosovo Independence Significant in Muslim World, Envoy Says

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 15:28:35 -0400

Kosovo may be Europe’s newest nation, but its significance extends well beyond the region. “To be able to secure a Muslim-majority state inside the European whole is a terrific signal that the Muslim world and the non-Muslim word can live side by side in peace and cooperation, one with the other,” says a U.S. diplomat.

What Kosovo Means for the Muslim World

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 17:21:37 -0400

“To be able to secure a Muslim-majority state inside the European whole is a terrific signal that the Muslim world and the non-Muslim word can live side by side in peace and cooperation,” says U.S. Special Envoy for Kosovo Frank Wisner in an America.gov interview.

Bush Reaffirms U.S. Support for Afghanistan, Iraq

David I. McKeeby — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 16:02:54 -0400

The United States remains committed to helping the people of Afghanistan and Iraq confront the forces of extremism and build effective democracies. “The effect of a free Iraq and a free Afghanistan will reach beyond the borders of those two countries,” President Bush says.

NATO Is Confronting New Responsibilities in a New Era

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 18:46:59 -0400

NATO's mission today essentially is unchanged from the day it was founded -- providing for the defense of its members. "But how NATO fulfills this mission is evolving," Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Fried tells a Senate hearing called to examine NATO expansion and effectiveness of the alliance leading up to the April 2-4 NATO summit.

Overriding Interests Help Prevent South American Conflict

Eric Green — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 10:52:05 -0400

Overriding trade and economic interests helped defuse an explosive situation in South America’s Andean region, analysts tell America.gov. A raid by Colombian forces on a guerrilla camp in Ecuador had drawn angry reactions from Venezuela and Ecuador, but regional leaders ended the crisis, for now, at a meeting in the Dominican Republic.

Missile Development, Proliferation Among Top U.S. Concerns

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 18:37:14 -0400

The heightened threat from advanced missile technology and the proliferation of missiles among countries of security concern are the major reasons the United States is pursuing a missile defense system, says a senior U.S. diplomat. The debate over a missile defense shield in Europe will be a featured issue at the NATO Summit April 2-4.

NATO Is a Democratic Community Anchored in Shared Values

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 09:45:16 -0400

Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Kurt Volker provides a preview of the Bucharest NATO Summit in April.

Bush Condemns Terrorist Attack in Jerusalem

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 17:58:23 -0400

The United States joins the international community in strongly condemning a terrorist attack on Jerusalem rabbinical students in an apparent bid to derail Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. "This barbaric and vicious attack on innocent civilians deserves the condemnation of every nation," President Bush says.

The United States and Nanjing: Friends for Almost 200 Years

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 12:54:26 -0400

Nanjing, one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China, is a city with a powerful sense of imperial and republican history, culture and arts, and searing wartime tragedy. It is the place where China and America were introduced formally and continues to play a vital role in their expanding, positive overall relationship.

Bush Requests Nearly $7 Billion To Strengthen U.S. Diplomacy

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 18:14:56 -0400

President Bush is requesting nearly $7 billion in extra funding to pay for diplomatic initiatives aimed at giving U.S. allies in the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Western Hemisphere tools they need to promote peace and stability, build strong governments, deliver essential services to their citizens and promote long-term prosperity.

Rice Urges Resolution to the Colombian-Ecuadorian Crisis

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 18:08:37 -0400

The United States supports a diplomatic resolution of the current border crisis between Colombia and Ecuador, which has strained regional security relations, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. At the same time, she warns that letting terrorist groups use cross-border areas for safe havens must not be permitted.

Rice Says Israeli-Palestinian Peace Talks To Resume

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 19:26:37 -0400

There are always enemies of peace who try to hold the Israeli-Palestinian peace talks hostage, but that simply can not be permitted when peace, security and prosperity for the Palestinian people are at stake, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. The parties have suspended talks but say they plan to resume.

U.S. Expects Constructive Relationship with New Russian Leader

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 10:52:37 -0400

The United States looks forward to working with Russian President-elect Dmitri Medvedev. “It's in our mutual interest for Russia and the United States to work together on areas of common interest such as non-proliferation, counterterrorism and combating transnational crime,” White House deputy press secretary Gordon Johndroe says.

Rice Urges Resumption of Israeli-Palestinian Peace Talks

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 18:59:55 -0400

During a visit to the West Bank city of Ramallah, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice urges Palestinian leaders to restart peace talks with Israeli leaders. Suspending negotiations plays into the hands of those who want the peace process derailed and prolongs the day when there can be a two-state solution, she says.

U.S. Calls for Global Partnership To Combat Narcotrafficking

Phillip Kurata — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 12:43:59 -0400

The world is growing more aware that no country or society is immune from the social, economic and political damage caused by international drug trafficking, a U.S. government representative says during the release of the 2008 International Narcotics Control Strategy Report.

NATO Summit to Address Afghan Strategy, Enlargement

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 09:46:39 -0400

NATO is committed to helping the Afghan people realize complete security, economic prosperity and political progress, and to keeping the alliance a relevant force for security and peace. These principles form the centerpiece of strategic talks between President Bush and NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer during a White House meeting.

U.N. Security Council Approves Third Round of Iran Sanctions

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 19:29:53 -0400

The vote by the U.N. Security Council to impose new sanctions on Iran illustrates that the council will take action when a nation violates its international obligations, says a senior U.S. official. The council approved sanctions March 3 for Iran's refusal to suspend uranium enrichment or answer questions about its nuclear program.

Rice Looks at U.S. Diplomacy in the 21st Century

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 19:32:35 -0400

The rapid international movement of information, money, technology and people -- commonly referred to as globalization -- is transforming the world and geopolitics, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, by empowering those nations that can seize its benefits and revealing the weaknesses of those that cannot.

United States Will Not Support Any Effort To Partition Kosovo

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 18:00:53 -0400

The United States will not support any effort to partition newly independent Kosovo, Under Secretary of State Nicholas Burns says during a briefing at the Foreign Press Center. Burns also discusses efforts to complete a U.S.-India civil nuclear accord, and a possible new U.N. resolution to sanction Iran.

Kenyan Unity Agreement Praised by United States

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 13:44:55 -0400

The United States congratulates Kenyan leaders for reaching a power-sharing accord that ends months of civil strife that nearly destroyed the country's society and economy. Kenya has been a long-time democratic ally of the United States and a nation that could be turned to for aid in efforts to resolve other crises in Africa.

U.S. Looks Forward to Continued Partnership with Pakistan

David I. McKeeby — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 12:41:14 -0400

The United States welcomes the return of civilian rule in Pakistan and looks forward to working with the new government once it is formed in the coming weeks to continue improvements in democracy, education and governance while promoting security and economic opportunity, Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte says.

Inroads Made in Thwarting Iran's Weapons Programs

Phillip Kurata — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 19:57:52 -0400

The United States has made important advances in thwarting Iran's nuclear and missile programs, says Treasury Department official Patrick O’Brien. In addition to domestic U.S. actions, multilateral efforts have imposed significant sanctions and have obligated states to freeze the assets of entities and persons associated with the programs.

Progress Being Made on North Korea Nuclear Issue, Rice Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 15:56:17 -0400

The United States believes considerable progress has been achieved on removing the threat of nuclear weapons from the Korean Peninsula, and even more can be expected with improved cooperation from the North Korean regime. The key ingredient is the political will to end the threat completely, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says.

Al-Qaida Remains Leading Threat, Say Intelligence Officials

David McKeeby — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 11:10:08 -0400

Top U.S. intelligence officials warn that al-Qaida and its affiliates remain a leading threat to the United States and its allies around the world, followed closely by the rapid spread of missile technologies and ongoing efforts by terrorists or nation states to acquire weapons of mass destruction.

First U.S. Envoy to Organization of the Islamic Conference Named

David McKeeby — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 13:46:05 -0400

President Bush has appointed high-tech executive Sada Cumber as America’s first special envoy to the Organization of the Islamic Conference. “The core of his mission is to explain to the Islamic world that America is a friend -- a friend of freedom, a friend of peace,” Bush says after a meeting with Cumber.

This Day in U.S. History

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 14:37:16 -0400

Bush Urges Congress To Double U.S. Aid to Africa

David I. McKeeby — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 17:53:37 -0400

Since taking office in 2001, the Bush administration has doubled U.S. aid to Africa in a move viewed as the single largest development undertaking since the reconstruction of postwar Europe under the Marshall Plan. But before leaving office, the president would like to see U.S. aid to the continent doubled again.

No Excuse for Further Delay in Kenya, Rice Says

David McKeeby — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 17:34:57 -0400

Amid continued deadlock and the threat of renewed violence in Kenya, the United States joins the international community and the Kenyan people in urging President Kibaki and his political rival Raila Odinga to honor their pledge to conclude a power-sharing agreement. “I am disappointed by the failure of leadership,” says Secretary Rice.

Rice Pleased with Chinese Support on North Korea Nuclear Programs

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:14:34 -0400

The United States is pleased with progress toward eliminating nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula, but North Korea also must honor pledges to issue a complete declaration of its nuclear programs. "The denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula is in everyone's interest," Secretary Condoleezza Rice says in talks with Chinese leaders.

New York Philharmonic Performs in North Korea

Merle D. Kellerhal, Jr. — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 13:24:35 -0400

"We thought there may be a mission accomplished here, and we may have been instrumental in opening a little door," New York Philharmonic music director Lorin Maazel says following the first performance by a U.S. orchestra in North Korea. The historic event combined Korean folk songs with some of the world’s best-known classical music.

New U.S. Military Command Responds to African Requests

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 17:30:53 -0400

The new U.S. Africa Command is not about militarizing the continent or its island nations in any way, says General William "Kip" Ward. Rather, the command -- which is similar to ones that already exist for Europe, the Middle East and South Asia, the Pacific and the Americas -- is to work with sovereign nations in support of mutual goals.

Kosovo's Independence a Just Solution, Says Burns

David McKeeby — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 19:03:00 -0400

The United States is proud to support the new independent state of Kosovo and views Kosovo's independence as the final stage “of the long and nonconsensual process of dissolution of the former Yugoslavia,” says Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Nicholas Burns in an Ask America webchat on America.gov.

Bush Pledges 1 Million Schoolbooks for Liberian Children

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:54:12 -0400

On the final stop of his five-nation Africa tour, President Bush tells the Liberian people that the United States stands with them and will help them recover from decades of civil war. As part of that effort, he pledges 1 million textbooks for Liberian schools and locally made school desks and seating for 10,000 Liberian schoolchildren.

United States Ready To Help Cubans Realize Liberty, Bush Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 13:33:28 -0400

The change from the regime of Fidel Castro should offer the Cuban people an opportunity to pursue democracy, and the United States is ready to help Cuba realize this possibility, President Bush says. Castro announced February 19 that he was stepping down as president of Cuba and commander of the Cuban armed forces.

Bush Explains Focus of Africa Military Command

Charles W. Corey — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 13:28:20 -0400

In Ghana, President Bush explains how the new Africa Command (AFRICOM) is a part of his administration’s strategy “to support African leaders to deal with Africa’s problems.” He says AFRICOM will not involve adding new military bases on the continent. He also announces a health initiative for neglected tropical diseases.

Bush Cites Positive Changes in Africa

Charles W. Corey — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 17:06:41 -0400

Africa has changed “in a very positive way” since President Bush first took office seven years ago, he says in Ghana. He attributes that change to the work of African leaders and also says the positive momentum in Africa has been aided by changes his administration has made to inject more accountability into U.S. assistance programs.

Bush Hails Kosovo Independence

David McKeeby — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 17:53:25 -0400

Pledging to work with Kosovo for a peaceful transition to independence, President Bush says, "Kosovo committed itself to the highest standards of democracy, including freedom and tolerance and justice for citizens of all ethnic backgrounds. These are principles that honor human dignity; they are values America looks for in a friend."

President Bush, First Lady Pay Respects to Genocide Victims

Charles W. Corey — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 17:44:24 -0400

President Bush and first lady Laura Bush visit the Kigali Memorial Centre to pay respects to the more than 800,000 victims of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and to genocide victims worldwide. After their tour, the Bushes lay a memorial wreath on one of the mass graves on the site, which contains the remains of more than 258,000 genocide victims.

United States Leading Global Response To Crisis in Darfur, Sudan

--------------------------------- — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 17:23:31 -0400

The United States is committed to ending the genocide in the Darfur region of Sudan and continues to lead the world in responding to the crisis there by providing humanitarian assistance to vulnerable populations, enabling the deployment of an international peacekeeping force and promoting a lasting political settlement, a White House fact sheet says.

United States-Rwanda Bilateral Investment Treaty

--------------------------- — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 17:22:37 -0400

President Bush and Rwandan President Kagame signed the United States-Rwanda bilateral investment treaty, underscoring the two countries’ commitment to open investment and trade policies.

Bush Announces Multiple Initiatives in Rwanda

Charles W. Corey — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 14:01:34 -0400

President Bush, on the third country stop of his five-nation Africa tour, announces a $100 million peacekeeper training initiative for Darfur, signs a bilateral investment treaty with Rwanda and tells Rwandans that the Peace Corps will be returning to their country for the first time since 1993.

Kenya Crisis Needs To End Soon, Rice Says

Charles Corey — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 17:10:18 -0400

The situation in Kenya is "a crisis that needs to end soon," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says following talks with Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki, political opposition leader Raila Odinga and other concerned parties. Violence following the flawed December 2007 presidential election has killed hundreds and displaced thousands.

Tanzanian Children To Receive Free Bed Nets, Bush Says

Charles W. Corey — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 16:54:01 -0400

Calling the suffering caused by malaria "needless," and "every death caused by malaria ... unacceptable," President Bush says a new initiative that will distribute 5.2 million free bed nets in Tanzania will be enough to protect every child in the country between the ages of 1 and 5. Bush also discusses other steps to prevent malaria.

United States Recognizes Kosovo as Independent State

Merle D. Kellerhals — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 14:42:55 -0400

The United States formally recognizes Kosovo as a sovereign and independent state February 18. “In light of the conflicts of the 1990s, independence is the only viable option to promote stability in the region," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says. Kosovo has been a U.N. protectorate since 1999 policed by 16,000 NATO-led forces.

U.S. Consulting with European Partners on Kosovo Independence

Merle D. Kellerhals — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 09:37:44 -0400

The United States welcomes the Kosovo government's commitment to implement the far-reaching provisions of a U.N. plan that includes supervised independence and protection for ethnic and religious communities, a senior U.S. official says. The Kosovo parliament formally declared its independence February 17 in Pristina.

Kenya Subject of Talks Among Bush, Rice, Tanzanian Leader

Charles W. Corey — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 16:31:28 -0400

White House press secretary Dana Perino summarizes a briefing on Kenya by Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete to President Bush and Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on the eve of Rice's mission to help resolve the crisis that has gripped Kenya since the deeply flawed December 27, 2007, presidential election.

First Ladies Launch Orphan Care Plan for Tanzania

Charles W. Corey — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 17:13:05 -0400

The first ladies of the United States and Tanzania are launching Tanzania's National Plan of Action for Orphans and Vulnerable Children to go into neighborhoods throughout Tanzania to identify and provide services to children who have been orphaned or are vulnerable as a result of HIV/AIDS.

Bush Signs Nearly $700 Million MCC Compact with Tanzania

Charles W. Corey — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 15:21:43 -0400

The Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact with Tanzania will provide nearly $700 million in five years to improve the country's transportation network, secure reliable supplies of energy and expand access to clean and safe water, President Bush says. Bush and Tanzanian leader Jakaya Kikwete also discuss fighting HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Tanzania Gives Warm Welcome to President Bush, First Lady

Charles W. Corey — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 15:21:26 -0400

President Bush and the first lady were greeted upon their arrival in Tanzania by dancing women and billboards thanking the United States for establishing the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and helping fight AIDS. Bush will sign an MCC Compact with Tanzania and visit the Amana District Hospital while in the country.

Rice Going to Kenya To Support Mediation Initiative

Merle D. Kellerhals — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 17:00:43 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is going to Kenya to bolster former U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan's mediation initiative and to deliver President Bush's message directly to Kenyan leaders. The United States is trying to help end civil strife in Kenya that followed the December 27 elections, says a senior U.S. diplomat.

Benin Visit Symbolizes U.S. Commitment to Africa

Charles W. Corey — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 13:53:01 -0400

President Bush's arrival in Cotonou, Benin -- the first stop on his historic five-nation Africa tour -- symbolizes the U.S. commitment to improving peoples’ lives all across the continent. In remarks with President Thomas Yayi Boni of Benin, Bush highlights initiatives to fight disease, improve education and encourage good governance.

Humanitarian Aid Key Component of Navy’s New Maritime Strategy

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 17:48:48 -0400

The familiar U.S. Navy hospital ship Mercy will visit Southeast Asia and the western Pacific this summer to provide humanitarian aid. International medical, dental and engineering teams and nongovernmental groups participating in Pacific Partnership 2008 have signed on to minister to those in need during Mercy's port calls.

U.S. Attorney General Visits Iraq To Support Legal System

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:20:02 -0400

Establishing a functioning national legal system based on the rule of law is a critical element for the Iraqi government. U.S. Attorney General Michael Mukasey acknowledges that building such a system is a serious challenge. America.gov looks at several U.S. initiatives under way in Iraq to boost the justice system.

U.S. Committed to Africa’s Success, Bush Says

David McKeeby — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 19:55:05 -0400

The United States has doubled assistance to Africa during the Bush administration -- the largest expansion of foreign aid since the Marshall Plan for recovery in Europe after World War II. And President Bush says that the region’s success lies in helping promote democracy and peace, which spur economic development and entrepreneurship.

Rice Headed to Kenya To Help Resolve Ongoing Conflict

David I. McKeeby — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 18:36:41 -0400

As ongoing strife grips Kenya since its disputed December 27, 2008, presidential election, President Bush announces he is sending Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Jendayi Frazer to Nairobi February 18 to urge an immediate end to violence and a restoration of democracy.

NATO Defense Ministers Prepare for April Summit

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 09:35:00 -0400

The pace of preparations for the NATO Summit in Romania in April quickens after NATO defense ministers meet in Vilnius, Lithuania, and discuss how to progress on 21st-century security issues in time for the Bucharest Summit.

U.S. Strongly Committed to Development and Stability in Africa

Charles W. Corey — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:21:23 -0400

President and Mrs. Bush’s trip to Benin, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana and Liberia will demonstrate America’s “strong commitment” to economic development, peace and stability in Africa, says National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley. Bush has partnered with African leaders to increase aid and wind down conflicts in the region, Hadley says.

U.S.-Africa Relations Chronology

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:36:39 -0400

A chronology of U.S.-Africa relations from 1943 to 2008

Secretaries Rice, Gates on What We Need Next in Iraq

Amor Safi — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 13:08:02 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rica and Secretary of Defense Robert Gates write about what to expect in Iraq in the coming months.

Senator Richard Lugar on Vital Role of NATO in Afghanistan

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:21:39 -0400

“The ongoing international effort to stabilize and rebuild Afghanistan must succeed,” Indiana Senator Richard Lugar, says. “There should be no doubt that Afghanistan is a crucial test for NATO.”

Palestinian Leader Fayyad Praises United States for Major Funding

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 18:38:32 -0400

Creation of a Palestinian state requires parallel progress on multiple tracks -- governance, security and economics -- and success depends on a serious and sustained commitment by the Palestinians and Israelis, the United States, the Quartet, the Arab countries and the global community, says Palestinian leader Salam Fayyad.

United States Sends Coats, Blankets and Food to China

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 12 Feb 2008 15:29:08 -0400

With China facing its worst winter in more than five decades, the United States moved quickly to lend a warm hand, providing 6,000 winter coats, 1,657 blankets and 87,552 boxed rations for the Chinese people. The $820,000 in aid was flown from Hawaii to Shanghai, where it was unloaded and given to the People's Liberation Army.

United States Urges Increased Aid for Afghanistan

David I. McKeeby — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 10:07:55 -0400

Increased development and security assistance are essential as Afghanistan works to recover from conflict and poverty, U.S. officials say. "If you look at the Afghanistan of 2001 and the Afghanistan of now, there is a remarkable difference for the better," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says in Kabul, Afghanistan.

Bush Africa Trip To Highlight U.S. Partnership with Region

Charles W. Corey — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:55:30 -0400

President Bush’s upcoming visit to Benin, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana and Liberia will demonstrate America’s commitment to the people of Africa and highlight how the United States has partnered with African leaders to address the challenges of disease, poverty and security.

Merida Initiative Seeks To Thwart Western Hemisphere Crime

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 20:41:23 -0400

Drug trafficking, international crime and illegal arms trafficking in the Western Hemisphere require regional solutions. To that end, President Bush has proposed an initiative that would combine U.S. domestic efforts with broader regional cooperation to multiply the anti-crime efforts.

Africa's Strategic Importance to U.S. Is Growing, Envoy Says

Jim Fisher-Thompson — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 19:41:01 -0400

A senior diplomat says her appointment as the first full-time U.S. envoy to the African Union highlights a growing U.S.-Africa partnership aimed at pursuing political stability and economic prosperity on a strategic continent. “This is an historic moment, both for the African Union and the United States,” Ambassador Cindy Courville says.

President’s Initiative Increases Access to Education in Africa

Jeffrey Thomas — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 18:56:39 -0400

When President Bush and first lady Laura Bush travel to Africa February 15-21, one of the programs in which they will have keen interest is the President’s Africa Education Initiative, a multiyear effort that focuses on increasing access to quality basic education in more than 30 sub-Saharan countries through scholarships, teacher-training and textbooks.

Africa Outreach Includes Training, Humanitarian Aid

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 18:09:36 -0400

A group of West and Central African nations are acquiring skills needed to oppose smugglers and pirates, protect revenues from illegal fish poachers and stem suffering from human trafficking, thanks to help from the international community through programs such as the Africa Partnership Station initiative.

Military’s Africa Command Will Promote Security, Spur Development

David McKeeby — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 12:40:57 -0400

The U.S. military’s new Africa Command (AFRICOM) will do more than help the region confront security challenges, say Bush administration officials. It also will be an essential tool to support governments across the continent as they develop African solutions to the continent’s development challenges.

State’s Shannon Remarks at House Hearing on Merida Initiative

Amor Safi — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 19:09:35 -0400

Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs Thomas A. Shannon testifies before the House of Representatives on the Merida Initiative and ongoing efforts to fight organized crime and drug trafficking.

U.S. Congress Examines Situation in Kenya

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 18:47:57 -0400

Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki, opposition candidate Raila Odinga and other political leaders must unite to stop the violence in their country, which has occurred in the wake of its deeply flawed December 27, 2007, presidential election, and act to promote stability in Kenya, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs James Swan tells Congress February 6.

United States To Welcome 12,000 More Iraqi Refugees in 2008

David McKeeby — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 15:58:41 -0400

It is a long road home for families displaced by war, but U.S. officials hope to offer as many as 12,000 Iraqis the chance to resettle in the United States by the end of 2008. “This is a tall order, but it remains attainable,” James Foley, the State Department’s senior adviser on Iraqi refugee issues, tells reporters.

Bush Administration Combating HIV/AIDS and Malaria in Africa

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 12:56:38 -0400

Deadly infectious diseases have wrecked lives and livelihoods in sub-Saharan Africa, forcing developing countries to cope with the loss of life, orphaned children and a shortage of working-age adults. During President Bush’s administration, U.S. aid to Africa, including disease prevention and care funding, has increased dramatically.

Bush Trip Will Showcase Strong Pro-Africa Legacy

Charles W. Corey — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 15:00:07 -0400

President Bush’s upcoming trip to five African nations is going to be "very historic and significant" because it will "solidify one of the strongest components" of his legacy: Africa, says former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Africa Rosa Whitaker. Bush will visit Benin, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana and Liberia February 15-21.

President Bush To Welcome Malian President to White House

Charles W. Corey — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 09:03:27 -0400

The upcoming visit of Malian President Amadou Toumani Toure to the White House for talks with President Bush February 8 "is confirmation of the increasingly close relationship between Mali and the United States" and further shows Bush’s close relationship with the leaders and people of Africa, a State Department official tells America.gov.

Ambassador Nuland on NATO Emerging in Afghanistan

Amor Safi — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 10:25:53 -0400

The U.S. ambassador to NATO writes about the 21st-century transformation of the democratic alliance.

Strengthening Afghan Governance a U.S. Priority

David McKeeby — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 17:17:53 -0400

A U.S. priority in Afghanistan in 2008 will be to help its leaders deliver needed services, security and economic opportunity to citizens, says a State Department official. From 2001 to 2007, the United States has contributed more than $23 billion as part of a long-term pledge to help Afghanistan emerge from decades of war and oppression.

Future Iraq Decisions Will Be Determined by Success, Bush Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 14:08:53 -0400

The United States has come too far in Iraq in defeating terrorists, militias and insurgents not to make sure it ultimately succeeds, President Bush says, and troop cuts will be based on the advice of military commanders and conditions. Bush also says security in Iraq is improving and reconciliation is taking place at the local level.

Kenyans Must Find Political Solution to Current Crisis, U.S. Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 10:02:08 -0400

The Kenyan people must work out a way forward from the current period of post-election violence, U.S. officials say. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says that everyone in Kenya, which is an important friend of the United States, should remain calm while a political resolution to the crisis is found.

America Is Spreading the Hope of Freedom, Bush Says

David McKeeby — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 11:02:34 -0400

“Our foreign policy is based on a clear premise: We trust that people, when given the chance, will choose a future of freedom and peace,” President Bush says in his final State of the Union address. Bush also is seeking a boost in U.S. foreign aid funding to help developing countries realize democracy’s benefits.

NATO’s Stake in Afghanistan Is High, Shortfalls Must Be Met

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 10:24:14 -0400

It will take a significant contribution by the international community to ease Afghanistan along a path where it can meet expectations. The coalition of U.S., NATO and Afghan forces has been working diligently to overcome the Taliban and promote security while fostering change in areas ranging from education to anti-corruption.

Rice Says United States Does Not Want Iran as a Permanent Enemy

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 13:57:05 -0400

Saying the United States “has no permanent enemies,” Secretary Condoleezza Rice urges Iran to cease its support for violent groups and its pursuit of technologies that could lead to possession of a nuclear weapon. In return, she says, both countries could work together for normalized relations and growing bilateral cooperation.

United States Pledges Support for DRC Peace Deal

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 12:38:25 -0400

The Bush administration welcomes the signing of a peace agreement between the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and armed groups that could bring an end to months of violent conflict in the country’s eastern region. It commends President Joseph Kabila’s leadership and urges all parties to “ensure urgent implementation.”

American Realism Links U.S. Ideals and Interests, Says Rice

David McKeeby — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 12:35:55 -0400

America’s interests are inseparable from its ideals, making its support for the spread of political and economic freedoms more vital than ever, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. “American Realism,” a belief in the power of democracy, free trade, human rights and the rule of law, is at the core of U.S. foreign policy, she adds.

Terrorist Group List Highlights Why Terrorism Is Unacceptable

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 16:18:16 -0400

The United States views action to identify and list "foreign terrorist organizations" as an effective tool for denying them financial aid, blocking their international travel and criminalizing support for them. Such listing also helps to expose terrorism as an unacceptable means for political change, says a State Department official.

Bush, Mubarak Pledge To Strengthen Efforts for Middle East Peace

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 16:31:58 -0400

President Bush says that, with steady engagement, a Palestinian-Israeli peace accord could be reached by the end of his term in office, and that the prospects for reaching an accord are strengthened greatly by the support from Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.

Bush Promotes Mideast Peace Plan, Security in Gulf

David McKeeby — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:29:58 -0400

In meetings with Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah in Riyadh, President Bush underlines the U.S. commitment to helping Palestinian and Israeli leaders realize their goal of a peace settlement and a Palestinian state by the end of 2008 and urges regional leaders to continue their support for the negotiations.

What is the Proliferation Security Initiative?

David McKeeby — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 19:52:54 -0400

Bush Promotes Freedom, Justice Across the Middle East

Merle Kellerhals — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 16:06:42 -0400

President Bush is encouraging the advance of freedom and justice throughout the Middle East during his eight-day trip to meet with leaders in the region, but he also is warning of the dangers posed by those who promote extremism, terrorism and insurgency that threaten regional security and undermine societies.

Deputy National Security Advisor James F. Jeffrey

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 18:59:27 -0400

Director of U.S. Foreign Assistance Henrietta H. Fore

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 15:59:05 -0400

Vice President Richard Cheney

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 17:10:05 -0400

Bush Pledges Support to Israelis, Palestinians Working for Peace

David McKeeby — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 12:40:31 -0400

After separate meetings with Palestinian and Israeli leaders January 9 and January 10, President Bush says he is increasingly confident that what might have been unlikely even a year ago is not only possible, but necessary: the creation of a Palestinian state by the end of 2008. “Is it possible for the Israelis and the Palestinians to work out their differences?” Bush asks in the West Bank city of Ramallah. “My answer is, absolutely, it’s possible. Not only is it possible, it's necessary. And I'm looking forward to helping.”

Bush Begins Journey To Bolster Peace, Security in Middle East

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 15:20:41 -0400

President Bush will arrive in Jerusalem January 9 to promote a Middle Eastern peace initiative begun at the November 2007 Annapolis Conference that seeks to bring the long-standing Arab-Israeli conflict to a peaceful resolution and create a democratic Palestinian state. But the trip also will serve to reassure allies and friends of the United States of its full commitment to regional security.

State’s Goldberger Discusses U.S. Commitment to Palestinian People

Amor Safi — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 14:27:43 -0400

Special Fund Aids Albania-U.S. Munitions Destruction Project

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:05:26 -0400

The recently completed U.S.-Albania munitions destruction project marked another success in the effort for disarmament and nonproliferation of weapons. Safety and environmental concerns were paramount in the project because it involved destroying Albania’s largest and most dangerous stockpile of surplus anti-ship mines, torpedoes and aerial bombs. The project was carried out under the auspices of the State Department’s Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund. It is one of many projects the fund selectively tackles.

Bush To Push for Mideast Peace in Regional Visit

David McKeeby — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 12:01:58 -0400

Setting out for the Middle East, President Bush hopes to build on the success of the November 2007 Annapolis Conference to keep up momentum toward a two-state solution for resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by the end of 2008. “What you see in the Middle East right now is a struggle between extremists and those who have a more hopeful vision for the future of the Middle East,” National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley says. During his trip, Bush will make his first official visits to Israel and the West Bank, with stops in Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.

Bush Administration Promises "Sprint to the Finish" in 2008

David McKeeby — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 12:35:10 -0400

In a series of recent interviews, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice discusses several U.S. foreign policy priorities for 2008, the Bush administration's final year in office. These include keeping up momentum in the Mideast peace process, continuing support for democracy in Lebanon, building on the surge in Iraq, halting controversial nuclear programs in Iran and North Korea, promoting stability in Afghanistan and Pakistan, resolving the status of Kosovo and addressing Russia's concerns over a proposed missile defense system based in Europe.

Pakistan Should Move Forward with Democratic Process, U.S. Says

David McKeeby — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 12:03:44 -0400

The United States is reaching out to political leaders across Pakistan in the wake of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto's assassination, urging them to move forward with the democratic process. "She was a champion for democracy," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says of Bhutto after signing a condolence book at the Pakistan Embassy in Washington. "The way to honor her memory is to continue the democratic process in Pakistan so that the democracy that she so hoped for can emerge."

Bhutto Assassination Condemned by World Leaders

David McKeeby — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 12:04:03 -0400

President Bush joins world leaders in shocked condemnation of the assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and urges continued progress toward democratic reforms in Pakistan. “The United States strongly condemns this cowardly act by murderous extremists who are trying to undermine Pakistan's democracy,” Bush tells reporters at his ranch in Crawford, Texas. “Those who committed this crime must be brought to justice.”

Sustained NATO Effort Needed for Long-term Success in Afghanistan

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 10:03:52 -0400

A moderate, stable Afghanistan is crucial to the United States, its NATO allies and the southwest region of Asia. To that end, NATO is leading some 40,000 troops from 37 nations under the umbrella of the United Nations-mandated International Security Assistance Force. Civil-military provincial reconstruction teams also are hard at work.

Middle East Peace Chronology

Helen I. Rouce — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 17:50:27 -0400

Rice Urges Donors To Join in Supporting Palestinian Authority

David McKeeby — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 21:18:44 -0400

Nations must match their commitments to Middle East peace made at the November 27 Annapolis Conference with financial contributions for creating a future Palestinian state, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. “Words and promises of support are helpful, but that alone is insufficient. Progress requires action, and it requires tangible financial assistance,” Rice says during a high-level international donors' conference in Paris, during which nations and organizations pledge $7.4 billion in assistance to the Palestinians.

U.S. Still Top Financial Contributor to Humanitarian Mine Action

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:41:26 -0400

Casualties from land mines worldwide have dropped from around 26,000 a year four years ago to a little more than 3,000 a year today, counting both land mines and other target-activated explosives. The United States long has been the largest financial contributor to humanitarian mine action -- a broad category that covers clearance, funding for prosthetics, training of mine removers, mine risk education, and research and development for better mine removal equipment and techniques -- and since 1993 has provided more than $1.2 billion to some 50 countries in this effort.

Donors' Conference Can Reinforce Palestinian-Israeli Efforts

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 21:21:29 -0400

The December 17 international, high-level donors' conference in Paris is an opportunity for the global community to reinforce its support for a resolution of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, and an opportunity for the Palestinians to show their genuine desire for statehood, according to senior U.S. officials.

State’s Goldberger Discusses Steps After Annapolis Conference

Amor Safi — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 14:25:53 -0400

Religious Leaders Condemn Terrorist Acts

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 16:16:35 -0400

Muslim, Jewish and Christian leaders in the United States join together in an interfaith peace-building effort to condemn terrorism and the violence it causes. In supporting this initiative, the Fiqh Council of North America -- the highest judicial body in the Muslim community in the United States -- issues a fatwa, or religious edict, saying "there is no justification in Islam for extremism or terrorism."

Support for Mideast Peace Goes Beyond Annapolis Conference

David McKeeby — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 21:28:26 -0400

Expect continued intensive diplomacy from Washington as Palestinian and Israeli leaders build on the success of the U.S.-sponsored Annapolis Conference, says a top U.S. diplomat. "There are a lot of historical reasons to be skeptical, but we see this as an unprecedented moment of hope and opportunity for Israelis and Palestinians," Thomas Goldberger, director of the State Department’s Office of Israel and Palestinian Affairs, says in a USINFO webchat.

Washington News in Brief

David McKeeby — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 16:15:59 -0400

Time for Mideast Peace Is Now, Bush Tells Annapolis Conference

David McKeeby — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 21:30:07 -0400

The time has come for a Palestinian state and peace in the Middle East, but Israelis and Palestinians will need international help, President Bush tells representatives from nearly 50 countries and international organizations at a one-day conference at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. "The time is right. The cause is just. And with hard effort, I know they can succeed," Bush says, following a joint meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.

International Engagement in Mideast Conference Cause for Optimism

David McKeeby — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 21:42:59 -0400

As President Bush met with Palestinian and Israeli leaders at the White House before the start of a U.S.-sponsored Middle East conference, officials highlight broad international support as essential to move the peace process forward. Some 49 nations, organizations and individuals, including 16 Arab states, have accepted invitations to the November 27 conference on the sprawling campus of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, outside of Washington, according to a State Department spokesman.

Annapolis Talks Foster International Support for Peace, Rice Says

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 23 Nov 2007 21:35:40 -0400

The November 26-28 Annapolis Conference is important to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in two ways -- it solidifies the launch of peace negotiations and it brings together international support, especially from Arab nations, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. For the United States, the two elements are critical to each other and to achieving success, Rice adds.

United States Announces Annapolis Conference on Middle East

Peggy B. Hu — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 21:37:17 -0400

Forty-nine nations, organizations and individuals have been invited to attend the U.S.-sponsored international Middle East conference November 26-28 in Annapolis, Maryland, according to State Department spokesman Sean McCormack. "The Annapolis Conference will signal broad international support for the Israeli and Palestinian leaders' courageous efforts and will be a launching point for negotiations leading to the establishment of a Palestinian state and the realization of Israeli-Palestinian peace," McCormack says.

U.S. presidents discuss desire for peace in the Middle East

Peggy B. Hu — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 15:57:58 -0400

U.S. Presidents and the Middle East Peace Process

Merle Kellerhals — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 15:53:42 -0400

Middle East Peace Conference Sets Stage for Formal Talks

Merle D. Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 21:39:27 -0400

Creation of a Palestinian state and resolution of long-standing Arab-Israeli issues are the focal points of a U.S.-sponsored international conference November 26-28. The meeting, however, will not lead to Palestinian statehood immediately nor even in the next few months, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says in discussing expectations for the meeting.

Report Strengthens Argument for More Iran Sanctions, U.S. Says

David McKeeby — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 16:45:35 -0400

Iran’s latest revelations to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) about its controversial nuclear program raise more questions than answers, U.S. officials say. The new IAEA report bolsters growing international support for a third round of sanctions to force Tehran to negotiate.

Upcoming Middle East Talks To Launch a Process, Rice Says

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 21:40:44 -0400

An upcoming U.S.-hosted Middle East peace conference in Annapolis, Maryland, will help launch ongoing discussions aimed at creating a Palestinian state and resolving the Arab-Israeli conflict, says Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. "It's, after all, an opportunity to launch a process, not try and conclude it at Annapolis," Rice says.

Iran's Nuclear Program Focus of European Leaders' U.S. Visits

David McKeeby — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 16:47:53 -0400

Growing international concern over Iran's controversial nuclear program is likely to dominate the agenda as German Chancellor Angela Merkel arrives at the Bush family ranch in Crawford, Texas, November 9, as it did for French President Nicolas Sarkozy's first official visit to Washington earlier in the week.

Russian Action on "Frozen Conflicts" Can Save Key Security Pact

David McKeeby — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 10:48:51 -0400

The United States is committed to helping Russia take necessary steps toward resolving "frozen conflicts" in Georgia and Moldova and thus defusing the Kremlin’s threat to suspend the Conventional Forces Europe Treaty, one of history’s most successful arms control agreements, a top State official tells Congress.

Iran Must Disclose Its Nuclear Activities

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 16:50:31 -0400

The European Union, Russia, China, and the United States recently reaffirmed a two-track approach to curbing Iran's nuclear weapons ambitions, and are offering negotiations conditioned on Iran’s suspension of enrichment and reprocessing activities. Greg Schulte, U.S. ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency, tells an audience at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute that Iran’s leaders still have the opportunity to open their nuclear activities to full scrutiny.

Six-Party Process Builds North Korea’s Relations with World

Robin Yeager — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 11:07:54 -0400

Several positive and significant steps have been achieved under the Six-Party Talks, and those steps are beginning to bring North Korea into a different relationship with other nations, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Christopher Hill tells two panels of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. He says the United States remains committed to replacing the 1953 Armistice with a permanent peace arrangement on the Korean Peninsula and believes that discussions of a Korean Peninsula peace regime could begin once North Korea fully discloses and abandons its nuclear weapons programs.

United States Sets Sanctions Against Iranian Revolutionary Guard

David McKeeby — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 13:11:18 -0400

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps is the target of a new set of U.S. sanctions against its support for international terrorism and role in proliferating weapons of mass destruction. “These actions will help to protect the international financial system from the illicit activities of the Iranian government and they will provide a powerful deterrent to every international bank and company that thinks of doing business with the Iranian government,” according to Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Annapolis Meeting Aims To Boost Moderates in Mideast Peace Push

David McKeeby — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 21:25:30 -0400

An upcoming U.S.-sponsored meeting in the United States of Israeli and Palestinian leaders aims to lay the groundwork for a Palestinian state and enhance long-term Middle East stability. “What we're trying to do here is to give to the moderate forces a chance to demonstrate that statehood is a reality,” Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice tells members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Using Children as Suicide Attackers Increases Sense of Barbarity

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:24:31 -0400

According to terrorism experts, the use of children in suicide attacks, although still infrequent, is becoming more common as terrorist groups continue to experiment with ways to breach security measures and enhance the ruthlessness and lethality of the violence. "The use of children, in particular, suggests that the [terrorist] groups responsible for their 'recruitment' are seeing a need to employ increasing extremes of barbarity," says Tom Koenigs, the U.N. secretary-general's special representative for Afghanistan.

U.S., U.K. Efforts To Stabilize Iraq-Turkey Border Intensify

David McKeeby — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 13:25:36 -0400

Stepped-up diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions along Iraq's northern border with Turkey after cross-border attacks by the terrorist group Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) are the focus of a meeting between Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and British Foreign Secretary David Miliband. President Bush also contacts Turkish President Abdullah Gul and Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki to discuss ways that the two countries could work to halt the PKK’s terrorist threat.

Profile of Suicide Terrorist Defies Common Stereotypes

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 14:30:29 -0400

Suicide terrorists defy stereotypes. They may be young or middle-aged or even children, married or single, men or women, educated, religious or not, according to a growing body of information, experts say. Research also indicates that many new terrorists often are self-selected and self-radicalized, and follow kin and friends into terrorist organizations to commit suicide attacks.

Suicide Terrorism on the Rise Worldwide, Experts Say

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 15:07:17 -0400

Suicide terrorism is on the rise and increasingly includes children as both victims and perpetrators, say terrorism experts. "What suicide terrorist attacks are about is ... killing large numbers of people in a target audience in order to generate the kind of fear and chaos that can produce political change in various ways," Robert Pape, a political scientist at the University of Chicago and director of the Chicago Project on Suicide Terrorism, tells USINFO. However, more than half of the attacks are unrelated to religion, he says.

Nongovernmental Groups Seek Peaceful Solution to Mideast Conflict

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 21:33:34 -0400

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) working to bring peace to the Palestinians and Israelis have relatively simple objectives -- end violent extremism and foster a resolution to the conflict. NGOs recognize they might not be able to resolve all the issues, but they believe they can help create a better environment for efforts to end hostilities. "The majority of the people living in the conflict want to do just that, live their lives, have business, provide for their families, and move on," says Darya Shaikh, executive director of the NGO OneVoice US.

Political Dynamics Shifted During 2006 Israel-Hezbollah Conflict

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 21:31:47 -0400

Nowhere is the old adage “the devil is in the details” truer than in a negotiation to separate and end fighting between warring parties. Terje Roed-Larsen, who has been involved for more than a decade in the Israeli-Palestinian peace effort, says the positions of parties can sometimes evolve “very radically over brief periods of time.” During an interview with USINFO, he also says negotiators must be ready to return to the table repeatedly in the quest for peace.

Nuclear Threat, Armed Conflict Reduction Highest U.S. Priority

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 18:23:06 -0400

The United States has been a leader in promoting gradual nuclear disarmament and garnering broad support for international efforts to destroy dangerous stockpiles of small arms and light artillery. During a speech to United Nations delegates in New York, U.S. Ambassador Christina Rocca points to sustained engagement in developing policies and systems seeking "to reduce the risk of proliferation or to stop proliferation when it is happening."

Small Arms Destruction Efforts Reverberate Around the World

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:26:07 -0400

Left unattended, even small stockpiles of surplus and obsolete AK-47 assault rifles, grenade launchers and shoulder-fired missiles could be stolen and used to fuel regional conflicts. Over the years, U.S. assistance has helped destroy more than a million such weapons in places like El Salvador, Suriname, Burundi, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Cambodia and weapons destruction programs are under way in Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Sinai Peacekeepers Are the Quiet Success of Camp David Accords

David McKeeby — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 21:24:00 -0400

The light blue helmets of United Nations peacekeepers may be known the world over, but under the dark orange berets of the Multinational Force and Observers serve soldiers from 11 nations whose quarter century of quiet success in keeping the peace along the Egyptian-Israeli border holds many lessons for future international peacekeeping missions.

Weapons Destruction Program Reduces Threat, Enhances Security

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 18:28:18 -0400

Albania’s recent destruction of its stockpile of chemical weapons is the latest success in ongoing partnerships between the United States and countries that have deadly weapons that are vulnerable to theft or illicit smuggling attempts by terrorists, criminals or rogue states. Senator Richard Lugar of Indiana and former Senator Sam Nunn of Georgia recently visited a chemical weapons destruction facility built to destroy Albania’s stockpile of chemical weapons. The facility was financed under legislation Lugar and Nunn authored in 1991.

Albania Completes Destruction of Deadly Chemical Weapons

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 18:32:10 -0400

Five years ago, Albanian defense officials discovered a cache of lethal chemical weapons left over from the Cold War era. Turning to the United States for technical and financial assistance, the Albanian government completed the destruction of the 16-ton chemical weapons stockpile in July. On September 1, in Tirana, Albanian officials and a U.S. delegation from Washington will commemorate Albania becoming the first country to complete destruction of its chemical weapons.

Security Council Concerned About Syria-Lebanon Arms Shipments

David Shelby — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 18:36:46 -0400

The U.N. Security Council adopts a presidential statement expressing its concern over reports of arms shipments from Syria to nonstate armed groups in Lebanon in violation of Security Council Resolution 1701. Among the provisions of resolution 1701, which put an end to a month of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in August 2006, the council declared that there should be no arms shipments to Lebanon except those approved by the Lebanese government. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Zalmay Khalilzad tells reporters in New York the statement sends “a strong message that Syria needs to do more … to stop arms shipments across its border into Lebanon.”

Rice Calls for Substantive Mideast Peace Meeting

David Shelby — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 21:05:52 -0400

An upcoming international meeting on Israeli-Palestinian efforts to achieve a two-state solution will be a forum for substantive discussions, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice tells Palestinian journalists in Ramallah. “This is to call people together so that we can really advance … Palestinian statehood,” she says.

Arab Leaders Renew Support for Iraq, Mideast Peace

David McKeeby — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 21:03:13 -0400

Arab leaders meeting with Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Defense Secretary Robert Gates in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, agree to continue aiding Iraqis and express support for intensified U.S. efforts toward a comprehensive Palestinian-Israeli peace.

Gulf Region Arms Sales Support Stability

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 18:45:17 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice announces a military assistance program for Israel, Egypt and the member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council, including Saudi Arabia, that is designed to enhance security and stability in the region. "This effort will help bolster forces of moderation and support a broader strategy to counter the negative influences of al-Qaida, Hezbollah, Syria, and Iran," Rice says.

Colombian Rebels Increase Land Mine Use, Raising Casualties

Eric Green — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 18:43:01 -0400

The world community is condemning a leftist Colombian guerrilla group whose increased planting of anti-personnel land mines is causing casualties in the South American nation. The State Department’s James Lawrence tells USINFO that the FARC’s “continued manufacture and use of land mines is in bold defiance of worldwide efforts to clear mined areas and ensure that no civilians are ever harmed by persistent land mines.”

Civil Nuclear Cooperation Goal of Draft Agreement

David Shelby — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 18:48:03 -0400

The United States and India reach an agreement to govern their cooperation in developing civil nuclear energy programs. It would allow the countries to cooperate in research and development and nuclear safety and to engage in commercial trade in nuclear reactors, technology and fuel. Assistant Secretary of State for Political Affairs R. Nicholas Burns, during a press briefing in Washington, calls the agreement “the symbolic centerpiece of a growing global partnership between our two countries.”

Pakistan “Indispensable” in Global Anti-Terrorism Fight

Eric Green — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 15:12:27 -0400

Pakistan is a vital ally in the ongoing global war against terrorism, says R. Nicholas Burns, the State Department’s under secretary of state for political affairs. Burns tells a congressional panel that Pakistan’s success fighting al-Qaida and the Taliban is indispensable to the global effort to defeat radical Islamic terrorist groups in South Asia and worldwide.

Rice Sees New Momentum in Quartet's Middle East Peace Efforts

Howard Cincotta — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 21:00:45 -0400

The United States has no higher foreign policy priority than the establishment of an independent and democratic Palestinian state living side by side in peace with Israel, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice declares during her first visit to Portugal and a meeting of the Mideast Quartet comprising the United Nations, European Union, United States and Russia.

Conventional Weapons Being Destroyed Globally with U.S. Aid

Stephen D. Mull — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 12:00:11 -0400

Al-Qaida Remains Significant Terrorist Threat, Report Says

David McKeeby — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 15:38:08 -0400

The terrorist organization al-Qaida remains a persistent and evolving threat to the United States, according to a new report from the U.S. intelligence community. "The main threat comes from Islamic terrorist groups and cells, especially al-Qaida, driven by their undiminished intent to attack [the United States] and a continued effort by these terrorist groups to adapt and improve their capabilities," according to declassified key findings based on the National Intelligence Estimate The Terrorist Threat to the U.S. Homeland.

Pakistani Government Praised for Confronting Extremists

David Shelby — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 15:32:59 -0400

The Pakistani government’s efforts to confront extremist forces draw praise from a senior U.S. diplomat, who also pledges support in upgrading Pakistan’s military capabilities and promoting economic development in the country’s tribal areas. Richard Boucher, assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian affairs, says the Pakistani government’s handling of the armed revolt at Islamabad’s Red Mosque showed decisive action against extremism, and cites recent arrests of Taliban fighters as evidence the government is serious about fighting violent militancy.

U.N. Priorities Focus of White House Meeting

David McKeeby — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 21:16:06 -0400

President Bush holds wide-ranging discussions with U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Iraq, Middle East peace, climate change, North Korea and efforts to stop the violence in Sudan’s Darfur region.

Proposed Mideast Conference Targets Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Merle D. Kellerhals, Jr. — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 20:57:49 -0400

A proposed high-level Middle East conference this fall to push for peace between the Israelis and Palestinians is intended to foster regional stability and speed the formation of a Palestinian state, says Assistant Secretary C. David Welch. The United States is supporting three efforts -- continued direct talks between the Israelis and Palestinians, enhanced regional security and international support to resolve a nearly 50-year-old conflict peacefully. "We believe that this is a moment for everybody to push the ‘go’ button and try and make this work," he says.

North Korean Reactor Shutdown a “Very Important First Step”

Stephen Kaufman — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 12:03:53 -0400

The shutdown of North Korea’s Yongbyon nuclear reactor and the first delivery of supplies of heavy fuel oil to Pyongyang represent a “very important first step” toward the elimination of nuclear programs from the Korean Peninsula, but quicker progress in the next set of steps outlined in a multilateral agreement is needed, the Bush administration says. “[W] e have a lot of work to do … [and] a very important first step was taken, but we have many more steps to go,” Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Christopher Hill says in Seoul, South Korea, adding “if we don’t take these steps a little more quickly than we’ve taken that first step, then we are going to fall way behind again.”

New Middle East Peace Steps Urged by Bush

David McKeeby — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 21:13:49 -0400

President Bush calls for a Middle East peace conference this fall to be led by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and include Palestinians, Israelis and regional neighbors who support creation of a Palestinian state. “The international community must rise to the moment and provide decisive support to responsible Palestinian leaders working for peace,” Bush says.

Nuclear-Free Korean Peninsula Is United States’ First Priority

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 12:18:39 -0400

The United States hopes to begin talks with North Korea aimed at achieving a peace treaty to the 1950-1953 Korean War before the end of 2007, but a senior U.S. envoy says such an agreement would not be reached until nuclear programs are eliminated from the Korean Peninsula. Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Hill tells reporters in Tokyo that a process aimed at ending the conflict could begin while the Six-Party talks continue, but “we’re not going to be reaching any peace agreement on the peninsula ahead of denuclearization.”

Radiation-Monitoring Stations Set Up at Russian Borders

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 12:31:50 -0400

The United States, in close cooperation with Russia, is spending billions of dollars to account for and secure Russian nuclear materials to keep the world safe from acts of nuclear terrorism. During the Cold War, it would have been difficult to imagine two nuclear superpowers cooperating on such a sensitive issue. But Russia and the United States have been working together since 1998 to put radiation sensors at key transit points – Russian ports, boarder crossings, international airports and key train and road intersections.

Bush, Russia’s Putin Signal Cooperation on Nuclear Energy Aid

Jim Fisher-Thompson — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 12:35:03 -0400

President Bush and Russian President Vladimir Putin signal a new spirit of cooperation on the peaceful use and spread of nuclear energy with a proposal to help the international community generate nuclear power. The Declaration on Nuclear Energy and Nonproliferation Joint Actions outlines a framework for the global sharing of nuclear expertise and technical assistance and follows extended U.S.-Russian talks on working with the international community to expand the safe use of nuclear energy.

Nuclear Weapons Nonproliferation Regime Challenges Experts

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 29 Jun 2007 12:37:04 -0400

International experts gather in Washington to discuss how to strengthen the nuclear weapons nonproliferation regime as officials outside Washington grapple with what to do about nonconformists like Iran and North Korea. The United States is committed to reducing the number of weapons and weapons-capable states while ensuring that the benefits of nuclear power are spread widely, U.S. Deputy Energy Secretary Clay Sell tells attendees at the annual nonproliferation conference hosted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

Former British Prime Minister Named Mideast Envoy

David McKeeby — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 21:11:28 -0400

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair will represent the Quartet -– the United States, Russia, the European Union and the United Nations -- in peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, the State Department announces. Blair, who stepped down as prime minister, becomes the first Quartet representative to the often tenuous peace negotiations in the Middle East.

Afghan Drug Trade Closely Linked to Taliban Insurgency

Vince Crawley — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 15:41:31 -0400

The drug trade in southern Afghanistan is related closely to the Taliban insurgency, and the Afghan government needs increasing support from NATO and international troops to help fight opium and heroin trafficking, U.S. and British counternarcotics officials say. Poppy crops have been reduced significantly or eliminated in much of northern and eastern Afghanistan, where governors and local leaders, often coordinating with the Afghan government, have worked hard to stop the drug trade, according to John Walters, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.

North Korean Nuclear Facility Could Be Disabled Before 2008

Stephen Kaufman — Mon, 25 Jun 2007 13:03:18 -0400

North Korea’s Yongbyon nuclear reactor could be disabled and a peace mechanism for resolving the decades-old Korean conflict could be in place by the end of 2007, according to the assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs. U.S. envoy Christopher Hill tells reporters that the coming weeks will be a “very important period” for the Six-Party Talks comprising North Korea, South Korea, Japan, China, Russia and the United States.

Thwarting Nuclear Terrorism Requires Global Cooperation

Porth — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 15:47:52 -0400

New Africa Command To Have Unique Structure, Mission

Jim Fisher-Thompson — Fri, 22 Jun 2007 13:30:53 -0400

The new Defense Department command in Africa, AFRICOM, will be unique in its mission and command structure, according to a senior Defense Department official. Ryan Henry, principal Defense Department under secretary for policy, tells reporters the United States is consulting extensively with African nations and other allies as planning for the new command, which is expected to become operational in the fall of 2008, continues. Henry tells reporters the purpose of AFRICOM is not waging war, but "to work in concert with our African partners for a more stable environment in which political and economic growth can take place."

United States Should Voice Concerns to Russia, Official Says

David McKeeby — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 13:16:05 -0400

The United States and Russia share many similar foreign policy goals, but need to continue to find new and better ways to talk through differences on security issues and views on democratic progress, Daniel Fried, assistant secretary of state for European and Eurasian affairs, tells senators. “Our strategic approach to Russia means that we defend and advance our interests while building on areas of common concern,” Fried says. “It means we must find the right balance between realism about Russia and the higher realism of commitment to defend and advance our values.”

U.S. Envoy in North Korea To Urge Progress On Nuclear Arms Talks

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 13:13:29 -0400

State Department spokesman Sean McCormack says it is “the appropriate moment” for U.S. envoy Christopher Hill’s unexpected visit to North Korea, coming amid similar consultations in the region with members of the Six-Party Talks – North and South Korea, China, Russia, the United States and Japan -- on implementing an agreement designed to rid the Korean Peninsula of nuclear weapons. “[I]t's an important moment … because we are testing the proposition that North Korea has made that strategic decision to abandon its nuclear weapons programs and to abandon its nuclear programs,” McCormack says.

U.S. Envoy Hopes Six-Party Talks Will “Pick Up the Pace”

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 13:19:14 -0400

The United States hopes talks on eliminating nuclear weapons from the Korean Peninsula will be re-energized and hastened following the transfer of previously frozen North Korean funds from Macau’s Banco Delta Asia. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Christopher Hill says he expects discussions among North Korea, South Korea, China, Japan, Russia and the United States, known as the Six-Party Talks, to resume in July and focus on the second phase of implementing the February 13 agreement between the parties.

Rice Praises Pakistani Progress Against Extremism

David Shelby — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 18:48:16 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice praises the progress Pakistan has made in combating extremism over the past six years and calls for free and fair parliamentary elections as a step toward the restoration of democracy. “I think we have to recognize that Pakistan has come a very long way since 2001 in its commitment to try and root out extremism, to try to make reforms -- educational reforms, reforms on concerns of women and the like,” she tells reporters.

Rice Announces Return of Direct Aid to Palestinian Government

David McKeeby — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 18:43:36 -0400

The United States is lifting financial and diplomatic restrictions on the Palestinian Authority and will donate $40 million to U.N. programs serving the Palestinian Territories, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says. “We intend to lift our financial restrictions on the Palestinian government, which has accepted previous agreements with Israel and rejects the path of violence,” Rice says.

United States Welcomes North Korean Invitation to Nuclear Agency

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 13:22:32 -0400

The United States welcomes North Korea’s decision to invite inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency back to Yongbyon as part of a multilateral agreement to shut down the North Korean nuclear complex there. Christopher Hill, lead U.S. envoy to the Six-Party Talks with North Korea, South Korea, Russia, Japan, China and the United States, says North Korea’s invitation is a very important first step in the disarmament process and one that “we have been looking forward to for some time.”

Pakistan Joins 50 Nations in Efforts To Prevent Nuclear Terror

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 18:50:56 -0400

Pakistan is the newest member of a 50-nation partnership to head off the potential of terrorists exploiting nuclear materials to sow chaos. The United States and Russia welcome Pakistan to the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism as the group of like-minded nations meets for the third time to build on existing counterterrorism efforts.

Azeri Radar Would Not Replace Czech Anti-Missile Site, U.S. Says

Vince Crawley — Fri, 15 Jun 2007 13:24:35 -0400

NATO’s 26 nations agree to assess by February 2008 the political and military implications of missile-defense systems in Europe, and U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says alliance members have voiced no criticism of the U.S. portion of the plan. Gates also tells reporters in Brussels, Belgium, that an Azerbaijan radar site, proposed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, would complement, not replace, an anti-missile radar system the United States is negotiating to build in the Czech Republic.

U.S. Seeks “Creative Compromise” To Keep Russia in Key Pact

Vince Crawley — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 13:28:25 -0400

The United States and other European nations want to address “seriously and creatively” Russia’s concerns over the future of the Conventional Forces Europe Treaty, one of history’s most successful arms control agreements, a senior U.S. diplomat says. “There is no point in returning to a rhetorical arms race and every point in maintaining and strengthening this very successful arms control regime,” the State Department’s Daniel Fried tells reporters in Vienna, Austria. “We’re hopeful that some creative way forward can be found.”

Apparent Shift in Iran’s Afghanistan Policy “Troubling”

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 18:59:46 -0400

The Bush administration expresses concern that Iran’s policy toward Afghanistan has changed in favor of promoting instability in the country, citing the transfer of weapons and explosives of Iranian origin to the Taliban rebels. State Department spokesman Sean McCormack says there is widespread concern in the administration of a “shift” in the policy of the Iranian government “from either benign, neutral, to somewhat helpful in Afghanistan in the immediate aftermath of 2001, 2002, to something quite different that does not promote stability in Afghanistan.”

Bush Condemns Second Attack on Samarra Mosque

David McKeeby — Wed, 13 Jun 2007 18:55:26 -0400

The United States deplores the latest attack on the al-Askari Mosque in Samarra, Iraq, and pledges "aggressive outreach" to help the Iraqi government maintain order. President Bush strongly condemns the bombing and joins with Iraqi officials to urging against renewed outbreaks of sectarian violence. “This barbarous act was clearly aimed at inflaming sectarian tensions among the peoples of Iraq and defeating their aspirations for a secure, democratic, and prosperous country,” Bush says.

Iran Moving Forward To Master Uranium Enrichment Capability

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 13:30:03 -0400

A U.S. government official who is highly knowledgeable about Iranian nuclear issues says Iran is moving ahead to try and master the uranium enrichment process, a capability that could enable Iran to have a nuclear weapon sometime between 2010 and 2015. Ambassador Gregory Schulte, who represents the United States in Vienna, Austria, at the International Atomic Energy Agency, says Iran’s efforts to expand its enrichment capability would be useful in building a nuclear bomb, but are not needed for civil nuclear energy purposes.

Bush Thanks Poland for Missile Defense Support

Vince Crawley — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:14:05 -0400

European nations and the United States will negotiate a missile-defense agreement that protects the entire European continent, President Bush says during a visit to Poland -- a proposed host-nation for U.S. anti-missile interceptors. “I appreciate the support of the deployment of the missile defense interceptors here in Poland,” President Bush says in Gdansk, Poland, following three days of talks with the Group of Eight in Germany. “We will negotiate a fair agreement that enhances the security of Poland, and the security of the entire continent against rogue regimes that might be willing to try to blackmail free nations,” Bush says.

Rice Urges Continued Israeli-Palestinian Dialogue

Stephen Kaufman — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 19:11:23 -0400

While leaving the door open for Israel to engage in peace discussions with Syria if it chooses to do so, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says any such contacts would not be a substitute for Israel’s ongoing talks with the Palestinians, adding that a two-state solution to the conflict will help Palestinians offer a better future than that presented by extremists. In interviews with New York media outlets, Rice also says she wants to see the international community increase the pressure on Iran for continuing its nuclear activities in defiance of the United Nations, saying the world should “confront Iran with a clear choice between continuing down this road and the kind of isolation that the international community can actually bring to bear.”

Bush Plans To Increase Resources To Fight Global HIV/AIDS

Amor Safi — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 12:21:45 -0400

White House fact sheet outlines the U.S. commitment to Africa in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

U.S. Envoy Discusses Use of Chemical Weapons as Terrorist Tactic

Eric Javits — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 12:50:24 -0400

White House Welcomes Russian Missile Defense Offer

David McKeeby — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 12:48:58 -0400

President Bush welcomes an offer from Russian President Vladimir Putin that could transform a dispute over a proposed European missile defense system into a new partnership opportunity for Washington and Moscow. Meeting on the sidelines of the Group of Eight Summit in Germany, Putin proposes sharing data from a Soviet-era air-defense radar system operated by Russia in Azerbaijan, and Bush pledges further discussions on the idea.

Rice Says Worldwide Cooperation Needed in Terrorism Fight

Eric Green — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 19:03:18 -0400

The United States is receiving “very excellent” cooperation from Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay on combating suspected terrorist activity in the region where the three Latin American countries share a common border, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says in an interview in Panama City, Panama. Rice says the “best thing that we can do as governments” is to have “extensive counterterrorism cooperation, share information, share intelligence, arrest people when necessary, and remain absolutely vigilant.”

U.S. Security Initiative Draws More Participants

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:07:22 -0400

More than 80 nations on six continents have committed to halt the spread of weapons of mass destruction, their delivery systems and related parts under a program launched by President Bush four years ago in Poland. A voluntary effort, the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) is designed to keep the world's most deadly weapons and components from reaching terrorists or criminals. More than two dozen PSI exercises have been organized using air, ground or maritime forces from a variety of nations.

Israelis, Palestinians Urged To Focus on Long-Term Goals

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 31 May 2007 20:49:55 -0400

The Quartet for Middle East peace calls on Israel and the Palestinians to “work positively and constructively” to encourage mutual confidence and to help create an environment more conducive for progress toward creation of a Palestinian state. U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and her Quartet counterparts representing Russia, the European Union and the United Nations welcome continued dialogue between Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and urge their talks to focus on the longer-term political horizon. “Palestinians must know that their state will be viable, and Israelis must know a future state of Palestine will be a source of security, not a threat,” according to the Quartet statement.

Detention of Palestinian Leaders Draws U.S. Concern

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 24 May 2007 20:47:48 -0400

The Bush administration expresses concern over Israel’s detention of 33 members of Hamas, including legislators, mayors, and a Cabinet minister, following Israel’s overnight raids on the Palestinian West Bank city of Nablus. State Department deputy spokesman Tom Casey tells reporters that even though the United States views Hamas as a terrorist organization that is engaged in ongoing attacks against Israel, Israel should consider the effects of its own actions on peace efforts.

U.S. General Says Hamas Influence Waning in Gaza

David Shelby — Thu, 24 May 2007 20:45:32 -0400

Even though the security situation in Gaza has deteriorated sharply over the past six months, the most recent clashes between Hamas gunmen and Palestinian security forces offer some indication the tide may be turning against the militant extremists, according to the U.S. security coordinator for Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Lieutenant General Keith Dayton tells the House Foreign Affairs Committee that Hamas is losing the goodwill of the Palestinian people. “Their attacks this time were particularly brutal. This brutality really backfired,” he says. “There have been numerous reports about the Friday prayer services that occurred across Gaza and how the Hamas-affiliated imams tried to stir up the Palestinian people against Fatah and were greeted with people who walked out of the sermons or, in a few cases, actually chased the imams out of the mosque.”

Rice Discusses Gaza Violence with Palestinian, Israeli Leaders

David Shelby — Fri, 18 May 2007 20:39:11 -0400

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice speaks to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert to express U.S. concern over factional violence in the Gaza Strip that has left scores of people dead in less than a week. State Department spokesman Sean McCormack confirms the telephone conversations between Rice and Olmert and Abbas but declines to provide details of the calls. “[T]he U.S. government wants to see an end to the violence … because the victims here are the Palestinian people, innocent Palestinian people,” McCormack tells reporters.

United States Calls for an End to Gaza Violence

David Shelby — Wed, 16 May 2007 20:37:19 -0400

The United States is calling on rival Palestinian factions to end the violence plaguing the Gaza Strip. “We're concerned about the violence in Gaza,” State Department deputy spokesman Tom Casey says. “We want to see that stop.” More than 40 people have been killed in four days of clashes between Hamas militants loyal to Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh and Fatah forces loyal to President Mahmoud Abbas. The eruption in violence comes two months after the parties entered into a Saudi-brokered national unity government.

NATO’s “Active Endeavor” Operation Safeguards the Mediterranean

David McKeeby — Tue, 07 Nov 2006 10:19:14 -0400

NATO’s “Operation Active Endeavor,” an ongoing naval patrol of the Mediterranean by the alliance and its regional partners, monitors maritime activity to help detect, deter and respond to terrorism and other transnational threats. Countries participating in the mission are gaining interdiction expertise and working relationships that also can be applied to other transnational security threats, such as the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

NATO’s “Operation Active Endeavor,” an ongoing naval patrol of the Mediterranean by the alliance and its regional partners, monitors maritime activity to help detect, deter and respond to terrorism and other transnational threats. Participants gain expertise and working relationships that can be applied to other transnational security threats.

The Suez Crisis

Richard Huckaby — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:16:19 -0400

The Suez Crisis had complicated origins and momentous consequences. It aggravated the Arab-Israeli conflict, almost provoked a showdown between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, dealt a blow to British and French imperial pretensions in the area, and it provided a gateway for the United States to assume a prominent political position.

Ping-Pong Diplomacy Spearheaded U.S.-Chinese Relations

Richard Huckaby — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:14:21 -0400

On April 10, 1971, nine American players, four officials, and two spouses, accompanied by 10 journalists, crossed a bridge from Hong Kong into mainland China to usher in the age of "Ping-Pong Diplomacy." The eight-day adventure signaled a joint desire to relax old tensions between Washington and Beijing.

The Cold War: A Test of American Power and a Trial of Ideals

Richard Huckaby — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:11:57 -0400

The Cold War was a war of ideas, a struggle over the organizing principle of human society, a contest between liberalism and forced collectivism. For the United States, the Cold War was its first truly sustained engagement in Great Power politics, and it required Americans to confront their contradictory impulses toward the outside world.

The United States Inextricably Linked With Nations Across the Globe

Richard Huckaby — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:09:06 -0400

Secretary of State Henry Kissinger has written that American foreign policy is defined by its oscillations between idealism and isolationism. This familiar dichotomy—a nation alternately tilting at windmills or cynically interring its collective heads in the sand—ultimately obscures the currents that have long guided U.S. foreign policy.

Introduction

Susan Doner — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:05:12 -0400

In extraordinary times the mission of statecraft is to transform institutions and partnerships to realize new purposes on the basis of enduring principles. One such extraordinary moment began in 1945, when American statesmen assumed the roles of architects and builders of a better world.

About This Issue

Richard Huckaby — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:03:57 -0400

Focusing on some seminal world events, this eJournal USA offers a framework for examining how U.S. foreign relations have evolved over the past century, influenced by the legacy of America's founding ideals of protecting individual rights and freedom. The United States has both played a role in and been acted upon by international events.

Nixon In China

Richard Huckaby — Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:02:39 -0400

Nixon's opening to China brought about an enormously important shift in the Cold War balance of power. The tacit alliance between the United States and the People's Republic relieved Chinese anxieties about a potential Soviet attack and enabled the Americans to concentrate their military power in Europe.