News and reports from the State Department.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke today with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, according to Spokesperson Matthew Miller. Secretary Blinken congratulated Foreign Minister Abdelatty on his appointment and highlighted the enduring Egyptian-U.S. strategic partnership while praising Egypt for its essential leadership in addressing regional and global challenges.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg in Washington, DC, at the start of the Washington NATO Summit on July 9, 2024. According to Spokesperson Matthew Miller, the meeting focused on critical decisions Allied leaders will make at the Summit.

The United States is expanding its visa restriction policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This policy restricts visa issuances to individuals who facilitate irregular migration to the United States and profit from exploiting vulnerable migrants. The expanded policy will now also apply to executives of travel agencies and tour operators who provide travel services designed primarily for irregular migrants to the United States.

Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara A. Leaf is on travel from July 8-14 to the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Israel and the West Bank, and Italy. The Assistant Secretary will meet with government officials on continued diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire agreement, secure the release of all hostages, and ensure humanitarian assistance is distributed throughout Gaza. She will also have further discussions on the post-conflict period in a way that builds lasting peace and security.

The United States has announced a second $2 billion Foreign Military Financing direct loan agreement with Poland. This development aims to bolster NATO’s Eastern Flank, reinforcing the alliance's defense posture.

Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Jennifer R. Littlejohn will travel to the Philippines and the Republic of Korea from July 7-13. The Acting Assistant Secretary will meet with senior Philippine government officials to underscore the U.S. commitment to addressing the climate crisis and working with the Philippines to protect marine ecosystems. She will also discuss areas of future scientific and technological cooperation, including space sustainability, as well as critical transboundary issues such as air...

Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez is traveling to San Francisco, California, on July 8-9 to participate in the SEMICON West semiconductor industry event. He will join a fireside chat and meet with semiconductor industry leaders to highlight U.S. efforts to diversify and secure global semiconductor supply chains.

Ambassador Julie Turner, Special Envoy on North Korean Human Rights Issues, will travel to Seoul, Republic of Korea from July 10-13, 2024. Ahead of North Korea Defectors’ Day on July 14, Ambassador Turner will participate in the Seoul Forum on North Korean Human Rights and meet with government officials, civil society organizations, and industry groups to discuss supply chain due diligence and forced labor.

Secretary Blinken to Deliver Remarks at the NATO Summit’s Women, Peace and Security Reception

In July 2021, Vice President Harris announced the implementation of a new U.S. Strategy for Addressing the Root Causes of Migration in Central America. Through this strategy, the United States is delivering tangible benefits and creating economic opportunities for citizens in the region to prosper at home. Efforts have mobilized partner governments, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society groups to take collaborative action. Together they are implementing policies and programs to address the complexity of irregular regional migration in line with...

On the occasion of North Korea Freedom Week, the United States recognizes the tenacity and courage of North Korean escapees and human rights advocates, as well as the continued suffering of millions of North Koreans at the hands of the DPRK government. This year’s North Korea Freedom Week culminates in the Republic of Korea’s North Korean Defector Day on July 14. In recognition of the critical role escapees play in advancing North Korean human rights, the U.S. reaffirms its commitment to supporting a survivor-centered approach to accountability and amplifying defector voices.

On July 2, the United States and Philippines' Agreement for Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy (or "123 Agreement") entered into force. The agreement aims to enhance cooperation on clean energy and energy security while strengthening long-term bilateral diplomatic and economic relationships.

The United States extends best wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the occasion of his 89th birthday. Through his promotion of nonviolence and compassion, as well as his commitment to advancing human rights for all, His Holiness serves as an inspiration for the Tibetan community and many around the world.

On July 6, 2024, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken issued a press statement in honor of Solomon Islands National Day, which is celebrated on July 7. In his message, Blinken extended greetings and congratulations on behalf of the people and Government of the United States to the citizens of Solomon Islands.

On July 6, 2024, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken issued a press statement congratulating the Union of the Comoros on its forty-ninth anniversary of independence.