America.gov-Peace and Security

U.S. Diplomats Urge Burma’s Military to Talk with Opposition

Daniel Schearf — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:25:29 -0500

Senior U.S. officials have urged Burma’s military government to talk with opposition groups before the country’s 2010 elections. The call for dialogue came during the highest-level visit by U.S. diplomats to Burma in more than a decade.

United States Still Opposed to Israeli Settlements, Clinton Says

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:34:11 -0500

Secretary Clinton says the United States continues to see Israeli settlement activity as illegitimate, but says Israel’s offer to halt new activity is “unprecedented.” She urges a return to final status talks for a two-state solution, which would ultimately remove the issue as a flashpoint.

Obama Welcomes Germany’s Merkel Ahead of Berlin Wall Anniversary

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:51:47 -0500

Nearly 20 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, President Obama welcomes East German-born Angela Merkel to Washington. Merkel becomes the first German chancellor in 40 years to address both houses of the U.S. Congress, where she urges greater cooperation to “tear down the walls of today.”

Now Is the Time for Democracy in Guinea, U.S. Diplomat Says

Charles W. Corey — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:54:36 -0500

Now is the time for the people of Guinea to elect a democratic government of their choice, senior U.S. State Department official William Fitzgerald tells reporters October 30.

Senior U.S. Diplomats Meet with Burma’s PM

Ron Corben — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:00:19 -0500

In a step toward re-engaging with Burma’s military government, senior United States diplomats have held talks with Burmese officials, including the prime minister. The U.S. diplomats also are expected to meet with Burma’s opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, during their visit.

Clinton Reaffirms U.S. Commitment to Muslim Communities

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:58:41 -0500

In a speech to the sixth Forum for the Future, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton reaffirms the U.S. commitment to broad engagement with Muslim communities around the world and the equally strong U.S. commitment to comprehensive peace in the Middle East.

Obama Congratulates Afghan President and Urges Internal Reforms

Stephen Kaufman — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 17:24:34 -0500

President Obama congratulates Afghan President Hamid Karzai on winning re-election and says the final outcome of the country’s election has been “determined in accordance with Afghan law.” Obama urges Karzai to initiate reforms to improve Afghan governance and end corruption.

Clinton Seeks to Restart Palestinian-Israeli Peace Talks

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 09:45:49 -0500

Secretary of State Clinton meets with Palestinian and Israeli leaders in a new effort to convince them to resume stalled peace talks. She met with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Abu Dhabi and flew to Jerusalem for meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Honduras Agreement Important Example for Latin American Democracy

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:17:14 -0500

Secretary Clinton praises Honduran leaders for their agreement to peacefully end the country’s political crisis stemming from the June 28 coup that ousted President Manuel Zelaya. She describes the agreement as “a big step forward” for democracy within the inter-American system.

Clinton Found Pakistani Students Respectful and Challenging

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 17:02:01 -0500

A portion of Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s three-day visit to Pakistan was spent trying to reach young people through a discussion of issues and emotions, and that became clear during a brief exchange with a young medical student in Lahore.

Clinton Calls for Strengthened Partnership with Pakistan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:59:27 -0500

The United States seeks to be a partner with Pakistan in economic development and trade, education, health care, energy development and regional security, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says as she concludes a three-day visit to Pakistan.

United States Pursuing Comprehensive Peace in Middle East Region

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:47:05 -0500

The issues, opportunities and challenges that the United States faces in the Middle East are among the most consequential for its security and interests, Assistant Secretary of State Jeffrey Feltman tells a congressional committee. Feltman describes for the panel U.S. policies across the region.

U.S. Strongly Supports U.N. Investigation of Guinea Massacre

Charles W. Corey — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:45:57 -0500

The United States strongly supports a United Nations commission of inquiry to investigate the horrific killings and sexual violence that took place September 28 in Guinea when security forces turned on and killed more than 150 pro-democracy demonstrators and raped countless others.

Honduran Negotiators Only Need Political Will to Reach Agreement

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:42:43 -0500

The U.S. delegation sent to Tegucigalpa to help facilitate talks between Honduras’ de facto government and President Zelaya has been asked to stay longer. Ambassador Shannon, who heads the delegation, says an agreement between the two sides will help legitimize November 29 elections.

Clinton Announces Millions in Assistance for Pakistani People

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:19:49 -0500

As part of her visit to Pakistan, Secretary Clinton announces millions of dollars in U.S. financial support for a range of Pakistani programs and government institutions, including those designed to help people affected by fighting between the government and violent extremists.

United States Stands with Pakistan Against Violent Extremism

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:43:24 -0500

Describing those responsible for an attack on a women’s market in Peshawar as “cowardly,” Secretary Clinton says the United States stands “shoulder to shoulder” with Pakistan as it confronts violence. Clinton’s comments come during her first trip to Pakistan as secretary of state.

Clinton Will Attend Forum for the Future in Morocco

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:08:43 -0500

Secretary Clinton will attend the sixth Forum for the Future in November in Morocco. The forum is an important regional conference that brings together government officials from the Middle East and North Africa and the major advanced economies, as well as civil society and private sector leaders.

Clinton Sends U.S. Officials to Honduras to Urge End to Crisis

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:55:41 -0500

With the legitimacy of Honduras’ November elections in jeopardy due to a continuing political dispute, Secretary of State Clinton sends U.S. officials to the country for talks to resolve the crisis resulting from the June 28 coup that ousted President Zelaya.

U.S. Mission to African Union Shows Commitment to Africa

Charles W. Corey — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:02:31 -0500

The United States was the first major non-African country to appoint a full-time ambassador to the African Union, and that shows the importance the people of the United States attach to their partnership with the people of Africa, says the U.S. ambassador to the African Union, Michael Battle.

United States to Triple Number of Civilian Experts in Afghanistan

Stephen E. Kaufman — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:26:19 -0500

The Obama administration has nearly doubled the number of U.S. civilian experts working in Afghanistan since assuming office, and plans to bring the number up to 974 by the end of 2009, according to Deputy Secretary of State Jacob Lew.

United States Anticipates Smoother Runoff Vote in Afghanistan

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:43:45 -0500

The United States is hopeful that the November 7 Afghan presidential runoff election will have fewer irregularities than the August 20 vote, but U.S. Special Envoy Richard Holbrooke says there should be wider acknowledgement that the electoral process has worked in the face of serious challenges.

Iran Delays Answer on Draft Enrichment Proposal

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 17:33:58 -0500

The State Department says a proposed agreement that would enable Iran to get its uranium reprocessed for use in a medical research facility would help provide for humanitarian needs in Iran, while also helping to assure the international community that the uranium will not be used for weapons.

NATO Looks at Boosting Afghanistan Support, Defense’s Gates Says

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:50:10 -0500

U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates says NATO allies are considering sending more military forces and civilian aid to Afghanistan as President Obama also is considering what course the United States will take there. Gates attended a meeting of NATO defense ministers in Slovakia October 22–23.

Czech Republic to Participate in European Missile Defense Plan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 13:44:20 -0500

The prime minister of the Czech Republic says his nation is prepared to participate in a newly proposed, U.S.-developed missile defense system in Europe. Czech Prime Minister Jan Fischer pledged support following his meeting with U.S. Vice President Biden in Prague.

Biden Praises Central Europe’s Democratic Advances

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:54:43 -0500

Vice President Biden praises the courage of the people of Central Europe for taking world history in the 20th century and willing it in a new direction toward freedom, justice and fairness. Biden spoke in Romania, on the second stop of a three-nation trip to Eastern Europe.

U.S., South Korea Reaffirm Timetable for Command Hand-Over

Kurt Achin — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:47:59 -0500

The United States and South Korea have wrapped up an annual security meeting with assurances that South Korea is on track to assume more autonomy over its defense in the next few years.

Mideast Peace Requires Taking Risks, Rice Tells Israelis

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:32:47 -0500

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice urges a resumption of Israeli-Palestinian peace negotiations “without preconditions,” and explains that the Obama administration’s emphasis on multilateral action recognizes that the fate of the world’s people is becoming more and more interconnected.

Fuel-Cycle Options Can Safely Increase Access to Nuclear Energy

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:01:37 -0500

Secretary Clinton says it is possible to allow countries to enjoy a guaranteed right to nuclear energy while preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. Both nuclear and non-nuclear states share an interest in a reinvigorated nonproliferation treaty and a stronger U.N. nuclear agency, she says.

United States to Engage with Burmese Officials

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:10:11 -0500

President Obama believes that “pragmatic engagement” with Burmese authorities is the best hope for advancing U.S. goals of a unified, peaceful, prosperous and democratic Burma, Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell tells a congressional committee.

Missile Defense Plan Designed to Meet Growing Threat to Europe

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:06:41 -0500

The new phased missile defense plan President Obama has proposed for Europe is designed to meet a growing threat not only to the United States, but also to allies, Vice President Biden said October 21 in Warsaw, Poland.

Obama Lauds Afghan President’s Participation in Runoff Vote

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 19:02:46 -0500

Afghan President Karzai’s agreement to participate in a runoff presidential election scheduled for November 7 is “an important precedent” for the country’s young democracy, President Obama says, and strengthens the country’s constitution and laws as well as the credibility of its electoral process.

Obama Praises Democratic Advances in Iraq

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:31:09 -0500

President Obama, after meeting in Washington with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, praises the democratic commitment of the Iraqi people and government as he also calls for the timely passage of a new Iraqi election law for January 2010 parliamentary elections.

Biden to Visit Poland, Romania and Czech Republic

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:26:37 -0500

Vice President Biden will travel to Poland, Romania and the Czech Republic to discuss a range of issues at a critical time for East European nations that are transitioning from local agendas to a broader global security environment, Biden’s senior national security adviser says.

Sudan Policy Aims at Ending Genocide, Implementing Peace Accord

Stephen Kaufman — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:18:40 -0500

The new U.S. policy toward Sudan emphasizes a need to simultaneously end the suffering in the Darfur region and fully implement the peace accord between the government and the southern region. The United States will be assessing the situation on the ground and using incentives to further progress.

U.S. Ambassador to U.N. to Embark on Mideast Talks

VOA News — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:14:39 -0500

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice is traveling to Israel to try to advance peace efforts in the Middle East.

U.S. Disappointed by U.N. Council’s Vote on Goldstone Report

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 20:30:15 -0500

The United States votes against a U.N. Human Rights Council resolution concerning a report on the January conflict between Israel and Hamas, saying it comes too soon after the report’s release and needlessly polarizes the two sides while efforts to restart peace talks are under way.

Clinton Optimistic About Russian Support on Iran, Missile Defense

Jaroslaw Anders — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:13:29 -0500

Secretary Clinton says the United State and Russia are committed to work together toward a non-nuclear Iran and that the Obama administration is making progress on persuading the Russian government to join with the United States in a global missile defense architecture.

U.S. Renews Call on Guinean Junta to Step Aside

David Gollust — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:51:57 -0500

The United States is renewing its call on Guinea’s ruling junta to yield power to an elected government, and it is indirectly scolding China for reportedly reaching a multi-billion-dollar mining deal with the authorities in Conakry.

United States, Russia Making Progress on Arms Reduction Treaty

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:24:43 -0500

The United States and Russia are making progress in replacing a current treaty for reducing nuclear arsenals with one that goes further in physically reducing arsenals and also perceived tensions over nuclear weapons, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says.

Clinton Praises Role of Peace in Northern Ireland’s Prosperity

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:19:10 -0500

Northern Ireland’s economic success since the ceasefires of the 1990s and the signing of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement demonstrates how peaceful reconciliation and compromise between rival communities can bring greater prosperity to all, Secretary of State Clinton tells lawmakers in Belfast.

Clinton, Lavrov: No Iran Sanctions Yet

VOA News — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:59:14 -0500

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says it is not yet time for additional sanctions against Iran, and she praised Russia for its cooperation on the issue. Clinton spoke to reporters in Moscow on October 13 after meeting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

Obama Is Among 21 Americans Awarded Nobel Peace Prize

Melissa Quijada — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:21:02 -0500

President Obama stands as one of many American Nobel Peace Prize winners. He becomes the fourth U.S. president to win the award. Twenty-one Americans in all have been awarded the prize by the Norwegian Nobel Committee for achievements in advancing international harmony and global well-being.

Obama “Humbled” by Award of 2009 Nobel Peace Prize

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 14:45:16 -0500

The Norwegian Nobel Committee awards the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize to President Obama “for his extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.” Obama tells reporters that “I am both surprised and deeply humbled by the decision of the Nobel committee.”

Obama Wins Nobel Prize for Nuclear Disarmament, Multilateralism

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 13:49:36 -0500

Only nine months after he took office, President Obama has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The Norwegian Nobel Committee says it based its decision on the president’s work to rid the world of nuclear weapons, and for creating “a new climate” in global politics by emphasizing multilateralism.

Clinton to Witness Historic Agreement Between Turkey and Armenia

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 17:18:13 -0500

Secretary Clinton is traveling to Zurich to witness and show support for the signing of a historic agreement between Turkey and Armenia as part of her October 9–15 trip to Europe. The two governments have agreed to establish diplomatic ties and open their shared border.

Officials Say Somali Piracy Is Declining

David Axe — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:47:15 -0500

In 2008, Somali pirates captured more than 100 large commercial vessels in the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, provoking a massive international response. Today, some 40 warships patrol Somali waters. The patrols and other measures have helped decrease successful hijacking more than 90 percent.

Nuclear Nonproliferation a Shared Responsibility, Official Says

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:19:59 -0500

The Obama administration is committed to reducing the global threat from nuclear weapons and ultimately eliminating them, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and Disarmament Ellen Tauscher tells the United Nations, as she emphasizes that the United States “cannot do it alone.”

Obama Examining a Range of Strategies for Afghanistan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 17:02:08 -0500

President Obama and his national security team are examining a range of strategies for achieving long-term security in Afghanistan, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and Defense Secretary Robert Gates said in a recent televised interview.

Guinea Violence a “Vile Violation” of Human Rights, Clinton Says

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:53:05 -0500

Secretary Clinton expresses outrage at the murder and rape of Guinean civilians by the security forces of their country’s ruling military junta on September 28. The secretary calls for an international investigation into the incident, saying there should be “no impunity” for the perpetrators.

Countries Hit by East Asian Disasters Receive U.S. Assistance

Stephen Kaufman — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 17:41:39 -0500

In less than one week, the East Asian region was hit by three major natural disasters. The United States is providing personnel, relief supplies, equipment and money to help those affected by the Indonesian earthquake, Typhoon Ketsana, and the tsunami that hit the Samoan islands.

In Building Schools for Girls, Mountaineer Honors Sister’s Memory

Christopher Connell — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 18:28:40 -0500

Inspired by his sister and villagers he met in Korphe, Pakistan, mountaineer and author Greg Mortenson builds schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan and advocates for girls’ education. Schooling, Mortenson believes, is “the single most important and effective investment we can make in any society.”

New U.N. Measure to Encourage Accountability for Sexual Violence

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:13:51 -0500

U.N. Security Council Resolution 1888, which is designed to protect women in conflict zones from sexual violence, can also embolden former victims to participate in efforts to bring perpetrators to justice, which the United States says is an essential part in preventing future crimes.

Seeking a New Generation of Cyberdefenders

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:42:28 -0500

Nearly every nation is coming under cyberattack these days, but they do not have a cadre of dedicated cybersecurity experts to ward off probes into their computer systems or track down hackers. Public-private coalitions are addressing the recruitment challenge in creative ways.

Nations Defend Computer Networks, Web Sites

Jacquelyn S. Porth — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:08:25 -0500

As increasing numbers of countries around the world experience cyber-attacks, governments are examining ways to reduce vulnerabilities and are looking to existing international forums to address present and future threats.

Obama Says Iran Talks “Constructive” but Need Follow-Up Action

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:44:46 -0500

The first day of talks between Iran and the P5+1 one group in Geneva were a “constructive beginning,” President Obama says. But he says Iran needs to follow up on its pledges of cooperation, including allowing international inspectors to access its nuclear facilities within two weeks.

Obama Facing Critical Decisions in Afghanistan, Pakistan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:47:00 -0500

President Obama meets with his national security team in the White House Situation Room to evaluate the progress that has been made and the challenges that lay ahead in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Among the challenges is shrinking U.S. public support for U.S. operations in Afghanistan.

U.S. Calls Guinea’s Military Crackdown “Brazen and Inappropriate”

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:15:07 -0500

The Guinean military used “brazen and inappropriate” force against unarmed and peaceful demonstrators September 28, the U.S. State Department says as it calls on the country’s ruling military junta to release opposition leaders and allow a return to civilian rule “as soon as possible.”

Agreement on Colombian Bases Does Not Increase U.S. Presence

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:52:34 -0500

A recent agreement with Colombia formalizes existing U.S. access to certain Colombian military facilities to cooperate against drug trafficking and armed insurgents, a State Department official says. It does not create new bases or increase the presence of American personnel in the country.

Cybercrime Rises as Hackers Hone Tactics

Phillip Kurata — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 11:21:11 -0500

Computer-based crime has risen in recent years as intrusion techniques are shared and spread within and beyond the hacking community. Many hackers are motivated by the thrill of intrusion and a sense of power rather than financial gain as they exploit technology, two researchers say.

Ahead of Geneva Meeting, U.S. Says Burden of Proof Is on Iran

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:22:12 -0500

The United States and its partners in the P5+1 group that will meet with Iranian representatives in Geneva October 1 are looking for Iran to prove its claims that its nuclear activities are purely peaceful in nature by opening them up to “extensive investigation” by international inspectors.

Obama, Rasmussen Consult on Afghanistan Strategy

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 10:37:57 -0500

President Obama and new NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh Rasmussen agreed at a White House meeting that the important thing to do in Afghanistan is first determine the best strategic approach, and then develop the resources to support it.

United States Calls for Restoration of Honduran Civil Liberties

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 16:06:28 -0500

The United States expresses grave concerns after the de facto Honduran regime of Roberto Micheletti suspends fundamental civil liberties and political rights in its ongoing efforts to suppress opposition and arrest ousted President Manuel Zelaya.

Successful HIV Vaccine Study Will Lead to Further Research

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:53:34 -0500

Medical researchers in Thailand have developed an approach to prevent HIV the same way it has been treated, by using a combination vaccine. Health officials announce they used two previously unsuccessful HIV vaccines in combination to prevent people from getting HIV, which causes AIDS.

Direct Talks Between U.S. and Burma Expected in New York

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 09:05:13 -0500

The United States and Burma’s military rulers will hold their first direct, substantive talks on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly, says Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell. Campbell will be the U.S. representative to the talks pending President Obama’s appointment of a coordinator.

Low-Risk, High-Profit Opportunities Drive Up Cybercrime

Andrzej Zwaniecki — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:18:20 -0500

Without improved defenses, the cost of computer security breaches to the world economy could rise to shocking levels, with one estimate of the price tag being $1 trillion. Cybercrime also causes intangible losses such as tarnished reputations and lost customer trust.

G20 Nations to Maintain Stimulus Plans Until Recovery Is Assured

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 17:17:39 -0500

Leaders of the Group of 20 advanced economies agreed to measures to restore the damaged global economic system, and also agreed to maintain current stimulus measures until a full recovery is assured.

U.N. Conference Calls for Sustainable Farming to End Hunger

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 12:47:52 -0500

Enabling the world’s poor to feed themselves through sustainable farming will help alleviate the crises caused by one of the most urgent threats facing the world: chronic hunger and its consequences, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says.

U.S. Tripling Nonmilitary Aid to Pakistan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 14:46:53 -0500

The United States is tripling annual nonmilitary aid to Pakistan to help the Pakistani people achieve greater security and prosperity, President Obama says. The U.S. Senate approved legislation September 24 to authorize U.S. aid totaling $7.5 billion spread equally over five years.

United States Has Known of Iranian Facility “for Several Years”

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:14:51 -0500

Secretary Clinton says the existence of Iran’s uranium enrichment facility at Qom is “an incredibly important disclosure that the world needs to digest,” and Obama administration officials say the facility has been watched by U.S., British and French intelligence “for several years.”

Iran Must Restore Global Confidence after Concealing Facility

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 16:26:11 -0500

President Obama, joined by the leaders of France and the United Kingdom, says the revelation that Iran has built a second covert uranium-enrichment facility is a challenge to the international community and shows the country’s continued unwillingness to meet its international obligations.

G20 Meets as Global Economy Improves

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:02:31 -0500

U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner says leaders of the Group of 20 advanced and fastest growing economies are meeting for the third time in less than a year as the first signs of a global economic recovery are beginning to appear.

Mideast Roadmap Should Be Fulfilled “Irrespective of Reciprocity”

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:57:14 -0500

Russia, the European Union, the United States and the United Nations — collectively known as the Middle East Quartet — say Israel and the Palestinians need to create the conditions for the resumption of peace negotiations, irrespective of reciprocity.

Group Hopes Meeting with Iran Will Clarify Nuclear Intentions

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:55:21 -0500

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says Russia, China, the United States, France, the United Kingdom and Germany are all united in looking for Iran to have “serious and substantive discussions” on its nuclear program when representatives from the seven countries meet in Geneva October 1.

Weapons Talks Spur New Cooperation Between U.S., Russia

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:20:55 -0500

As the two major nuclear superpowers, the United States and Russia have made a substantial commitment to reduce their nuclear stockpiles and President Obama says after meeting with Russian President Medvedev that an agreement on further reductions is achievable by the end of 2009.

United States Will Directly Engage Burma, but Keep Sanctions

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:38:11 -0500

The Obama administration says targeted sanctions against Burma’s military rulers and their associates will not by themselves encourage democratic and human rights reforms. The Obama administration says it will keep the sanctions but will also directly engage the military junta.

U.N. Security Council Commits to Global Nuclear Disarmament

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:17:29 -0500

The U.N. Security Council unanimously commits to work for a world free of nuclear weapons. Meeting in a special session, the 15-member council adopts a framework, offered by the United States, to guide nations in halting the spread of nuclear weapons and reducing global nuclear dangers.

Obama Challenges United Nations to “New Era of Engagement”

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 08:49:31 -0500

President Obama says the United States accepts its global responsibilities, but others cannot “wait for America to solve the world’s problems alone.” He calls for a new era of engagement to confront nuclear proliferation, climate change, conflict and economic crisis.

Prosperous, Peaceful Africa Vital to World Community, Obama Says

Susan Domowitz — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:53:22 -0500

It is up to Africans to make Africa the prosperous, peaceful continent that is vital to the interests of the United States and the rest of the world, President Obama tells 25 leaders of sub-Saharan African nations at a luncheon he hosted in New York on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly.

Obama Says Partnerships Are Defining U.S. Foreign Policy

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:39:36 -0500

President Obama pauses briefly during the whirl of United Nations events and diplomatic conferences to speak to volunteers who are committed to resolving some of the world’s most pressing concerns, including poverty, health, education and the impact of rapid climate change.

Obama and China’s Hu Hold Talks on U.S.-China Relations

Merle David Kellerhals, Jr. — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:48:40 -0500

President Obama and Chinese President Hu Jintao, meeting for the second time this year, discuss major issues such as nuclear weapons programs in North Korea and Iran, climate change, global economic recovery, and specific economic and trade issues between the United States and China.

Give Mideast Talks a Chance for Success, Obama Tells Leaders

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:17:42 -0500

President Obama meets with Israeli and Palestinian leaders in New York and says peace negotiations between the two sides must begin soon and move forward “with a sense of urgency” rather than continuing the pattern of “taking tentative steps forward and then stepping back.”

U.S., Russia to Share Warning Data on Missile, Space Launches

Carlos Aranaga — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:19:40 -0500

Talks are again under way toward the goal of implementing the long-awaited Joint Data Exchange Center, agreed to by the U.S. and Russian presidents a decade ago, to mitigate the chances of inadvertent retaliatory military strikes arising from misinterpreted data from early warning systems.

Clinton Urges Patience from Georgia over Breakaway Regions

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:14:13 -0500

Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton urges Georgia to exhibit strategic patience in resolving issues over its two breakaway regions — South Ossetia and Abkhazia — and Russian occupation of those regions. Clinton met with Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili September 21 in New York.

China Expected to Urge North Korea’s Return to Six-Party Talks

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 15:25:16 -0500

North Korea’s partners in the Six-Party Talks aimed at ending the country’s development of nuclear weapons share an “essential focus” on the need to return to the multilateral framework. A U.S. official says North Korea’s traditional ally China has “been clearest and firmest” about that policy.

Clinton, Arias Call for Calm, Talks Among Honduran Leaders

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:25:54 -0500

Now is the moment for Honduran President Manuel Zelaya and the leaders of the de facto Honduran government to reach an agreement for the benefit of the people, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton says. “We just want to see this matter resolved peacefully,” Clinton adds.

U.S.-Russian Military-to-Military Links Set to Expand

Carlos Aranaga — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:22:11 -0500

U.S.-Russian military-to-military exchanges, suspended since the August 2008 Georgian conflict, have resumed after the signing in July of a new cooperative framework between the U.S. chairman of the Joints Chief of Staff and Russia’s chief of the General Staff.

United States Planning U.N. Action on Nuclear Disarmament

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 16:44:25 -0500

After President Obama chairs what will be the fifth summit-level meeting of the United Nation Security Council September 24, the United States expects the council to agree on a resolution concerning nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Susan Rice tells reporters.

Clinton Outlines U.S. Agenda for U.N. General Assembly

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 16:13:48 -0500

The United States will promote an agenda at the opening of the 64th session of the U.N. General Assembly focused heavily on building international partnerships, promoting nuclear nonproliferation, resolving issues in Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan and forging economic development initiatives.

Eric Goosby Becomes New U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:41:58 -0500

Progress has been made in curbing the global AIDS epidemic, but the disease continues to cause devastation in countries on every continent and in communities in every country, Secretary of State Clinton says at the swearing-in ceremony for the new U.S. global AIDS coordinator, Dr. Eric Goosby.

Zimbabwe Political Agreement Needs Full Implementation, U.S. Says

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:20:38 -0500

The United States sees its targeted sanctions against Zimbabwean political leaders as a lever to encourage substantial and sustained progress toward democracy and stability by Zimbabwe’s government, especially the full implementation of the country’s Global Provisional Agreement.

Glossary of Key Cybersecurity Terms

Jacqui Porth — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:07:28 -0500

A glossary of key cybersecurity terms.

Resources on Cybersecurity

Jacqui Porth — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:39:54 -0500

A list of videos, reports and Web sites on cybersecurity.

Obama Announces New Plan to Defend Europe from Iranian Missiles

Stephen Kaufman — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:10:48 -0500

After a comprehensive review of U.S. missile defense proposals for Europe, President Obama announces a new defense plan based on updated intelligence and technological advances that will protect European countries from the threat posed by Iran’s short- and medium-range ballistic missile programs.

Decision on U.S. Troop Levels in Afghanistan Awaits Assessments

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 19:10:29 -0500

President Obama says he will not be making a decision on increased U.S. troop levels in Afghanistan until the situation in the country is assessed from the civilian, diplomatic and development sides and the current military needs and the recent election in that nation are analyzed.

Federal Reserve Head Says U.S. Recession “Very Likely” Is Over

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 16:42:02 -0500

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke says that “very likely” the current recession is over, but the U.S. economy will remain weak for some time and the national unemployment rate will come down slowly from its current rate of 9.7 percent, which is a 26-year high.

Iranian Negotiator Agrees to October 1 Talks with Six Powers

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 11:01:22 -0500

Iran can abandon its nuclear weapons development program and join the international community, or it can face increased international isolation, a State Department official said September 14. The Iranian chief nuclear negotiator agreed to talks beginning October 1.

United States Imposes Special Tariffs on Chinese-Made Tires

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 10:31:27 -0500

President Obama imposes special duties on imports of Chinese-made automotive tires for three years to correct market from a surge in imported tires, the White House says. “The president decided to remedy the clear disruption to the U.S. tire industry based on the facts and the law in this case.”

Obama Calls for New Financial Regulatory System

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:51:56 -0500

President Obama calls on the U.S. financial industry to work with him and Congress in crafting a new regulatory system to prevent a repeat of the current economic crisis, which is the worst since the Great Depression of the 1930s.

Nonproliferation, Climate Change Top U.S. Issues for U.N. Meeting

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:48:24 -0500

Traditional U.S. security priorities such as nonproliferation and arms control are being joined by climate change and food security as the Obama administration emphasizes a new American commitment to multilateralism ahead of the 64th United Nations General Assembly in New York.

United States Willing to Meet Bilaterally with North Korea

Stephen Kaufman — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:13:20 -0500

The United States says it is willing to meet bilaterally with North Korea as part of an effort to convince Pyongyang to return to multilateral discussions, known as the Six-Party Talks, on its nuclear activities. The decision was made after consultations with other members of the six-party process.

U.S. Secretary of State Lauds Strength of U.S.-China Relationship

Bridget Hunter — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:17:42 -0500

“President Obama and I believe we are entering a new era in China-U.S. relations,” Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton tells guests at a dinner in Washington honoring Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China.

Ambassador Hill Says United States Holding to Timetable in Iraq

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:33:44 -0500

The U.S. ambassador to Iraq says the United States will withdraw all combat forces from Iraq by August 2010 and all remaining U.S. forces, advisers and trainers by December 2011. “We are holding to this timetable,” Ambassador Christopher Hill tells the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

United States Signs Anti-Piracy Agreement

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 17:35:53 -0500

The United States joins four other nations in signing an international plan to protect ships and thwart piracy off the coast of Somalia. Britain, Cyprus, Japan and Singapore take part in the signing ceremony September 9 in New York.

U.S. Raises New Concerns about Iran’s Bomb-Making Program

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 16:22:19 -0500

Iran now may have enough enriched nuclear fuel to make a nuclear bomb, a senior U.S. diplomat says before the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna. “We have serious concerns that Iran is deliberately attempting … to preserve a nuclear weapons option,” U.S. Ambassador Glyn Davies says.

Envoy Gration Seeks Deal for Peace Accord in Sudan

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 16:02:51 -0500

U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan Scott Gration is in Juba, Southern Sudan, to hold talks with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement and President Omar Hassan al-Bashir’s National Congress Party on two sticking points to implementation of a broader 2005 peace accord, the State Department says.

Patience Urged as Afghan Fraud Claims Are Investigated

Stephen Kaufman — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:17:42 -0500

The State Department spokesman says allegations of fraud in Afghanistan’s August 20 elections need “a rigorous vetting,” and he urges Afghan voters and political leaders to show patience as their country’s independent election institutions deal with the fraud complaints.

United States Weighing North Korean Offer of Bilateral Talks

Stephen Kaufman — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:34:21 -0500

The Obama administration is considering how best to respond to North Korea’s reported offer of direct talks with the United States, but a senior U.S. official says any discussions cannot come as a substitute for the multilateral Six-Party Talks that include North Korea’s neighbors.

G20 Ministers Say Stimulus Measures to Stay for Now

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 17:05:27 -0500

Finance ministers and central bank governors from the world’s largest economies, at a meeting in London, agree that until there is a sustained economic recovery led by the private sector, multitrillion-dollar stimulus measures taken earlier this year will remain in place.

Obama Urges America’s Students to Fulfill Responsibilities

Merle David Kellerhals Jr. — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:37:20 -0500

Drawing from his own life experiences, President Obama, in a nationally televised address, urges America’s schoolchildren to take responsibility for their own education and take advantage of the opportunities that an education offers.