News and reports from the State Department.

Special Envoy for North Korean Human Rights Issues Julie Turner and Ambassador-at-Large for Global Criminal Justice Beth Van Schaack are set to visit the Republic of Korea from October 7-11, 2024. During their stay in Seoul, they will co-host a strategic workshop on accountability for human rights violations in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). This event is organized by the Center for Justice and Accountability with funding from the State Department’s Office of Global Criminal Justice.

The United States has extended its congratulations to Claudia Sheinbaum on her inauguration as President of Mexico. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken issued a statement recognizing the significance of the democratic process in Mexico and acknowledging the historic nature of this event.

The Department of State has announced sanctions on two Israeli individuals, citing their actions as contributing to violence and instability in the West Bank. These measures are part of efforts to address activities that undermine peace, security, and stability in the region.

Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez will travel to Atlanta, Georgia from October 1-3, 2024, to attend the 9th Annual U.S.-Republic of Korea (ROK) Senior Economic Dialogue (SED). This marks the first time the SED will be held outside of the capitals of either country. The event will spotlight over $24 billion in ROK private sector investment in Georgia pledged over the past three years.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar met in Washington, D.C., to discuss the ongoing partnership between their countries. The meeting followed a recent attack by Iran on Israel.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita on October 1, 2024. The meeting focused on advancing regional and global peace and strengthening the U.S.-Morocco partnership.

The Department of State has announced sanctions on two Israeli individuals, including a violent settler and the CEO and director of U.S.-designated Hashomer Yosh. According to the Department, these individuals have contributed to an environment of violence and instability in the West Bank. Their actions are seen as undermining peace, security, and stability in the region.

Deputy Secretary for Management and Resources Richard R. Verma addressed the Fourth International Counter Ransomware Initiative Summit at the Foreign Service Institute on October 1, 2024. He emphasized the need for global cooperation to tackle ransomware threats.

The Government of the United States and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at promoting, supporting, and empowering women and girls globally. This agreement underscores their commitment to strengthening Women, Peace, and Security efforts; promoting women's economic empowerment; and addressing issues such as gender-based violence, countering violent extremism, and elevating women's leadership in OIC Member States.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar today in Washington, D.C. The meeting underscored the United States and India’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties and coordinating on regional and global challenges.

The United States and Bahrain concluded the fourth annual U.S.-Bahrain Strategic Dialogue in Washington, D.C., led by U.S. Acting Under Secretary for Political Affairs Ambassador John Bass and Bahrain's Under Secretary for Political Affairs Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa. This dialogue underscores the two nations' commitment to enhancing security, fostering economic growth, strengthening cultural ties, and upholding fundamental rights.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide in Washington on September 30, 2024. The meeting aimed to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to strengthening its relationship with Norway.

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

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya on September 30, 2024. According to Spokesperson Matthew Miller, the meeting marked the start of the U.S.-Kuwait Strategic Dialogue, which aims to strengthen bilateral engagement in various fields.

At the 79th UN General Assembly, the United States announced nearly $2.1 billion in humanitarian assistance to address the unprecedented level of humanitarian needs globally. This funding supports critical and life-saving humanitarian assistance to those impacted by crises, including displaced persons and the receptive host communities supporting them.