Press Releases: Deputy Secretary Sullivan’s Participation in the APEC-Pacific Islands Countries Leaders’ Informal Dialogue


Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
November 19, 2018


The below is attributable to Spokesperson Heather Nauert: ‎

Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan met with Pacific Island and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders on November 17 in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. The discussion highlighted mechanisms for closer coordination between APEC and Pacific Island Countries (PICs) to promote development cooperation and to build awareness of and capacity to address digital issues. The United States is committed to the Pacific Island Countries and recognizes their importance in achieving a free and open Indo-Pacific. Our partnership with the Pacific Island Countries in tackling global and regional challenges, including promoting regional security and stability; advancing sustainable growth and prosperity; addressing environmental challenges; preparing for and responding to natural disasters; and strengthening our people-to-people ties.






Press Releases: Secretary Pompeo’s Call With Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom


Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
November 19, 2018


The below is attributable to Spokesperson Heather Nauert:‎

Secretary Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom and thanked her for Sweden’s role in securing the release of an American citizen from North Korea. The Secretary also thanked the Swedes for their support and services as our Protecting Power in North Korea, and discussed other issues of mutual concern.






Press Releases: The United States and UN Sanction Libyan Militia Leader Salah Badi


Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
November 19, 2018


Today, the United States, in coordination with the UN Security Council’s Libya Sanctions Committee, imposed financial sanctions on Libyan militia leader Salah Badi (Badi). In accordance with the UN listing, which the United States, United Kingdom, and France co-sponsored, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has designated Badi pursuant to Executive Order 13726. Consequently, all of Badi’s assets within U.S. jurisdiction are blocked, and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with him. In addition, the corresponding UN sanctions require all UN Member States to impose an asset freeze and travel ban.

In August 2018, Badi ordered action against rival militias aligned with the Government of National Accord, exacerbating instability in Tripoli. Since 2014, Badi has played a critical role in undermining Libyan peace, security, and stability. In addition, forces under Badi’s command have used Grad rockets in highly populated areas, causing indiscriminate destruction and casualties, including emergency responders and ambulance workers.

Today’s action shows that the United States and the international community will take concrete and forceful action in response to those who undermine Libya’s peace, security, or stability.

For further information, please see the Department of the Treasury’s press release available here and the UN’s press release available here.






Press Releases: Special Representative Biegun To Meet With Republic of Korea Special Representative for Korean Peninsula Peace and Security Affairs Lee Do-hoon


Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
November 19, 2018


U.S. Special Representative for North Korea Stephen Biegun will meet with Republic of Korea Special Representative for Korean Peninsula Peace and Security Affairs Lee Do-hoon in Washington on Tuesday, November 20, to further strengthen our close coordination on efforts to achieve our shared goal of final, fully verified denuclearization. Special Representative Biegun and Special Representative Lee will discuss ongoing diplomatic efforts, sustained implementation of UN sanctions, and inter-Korean cooperation.






Press Releases: Monaco National Day


Press Statement

Michael R. Pompeo

Secretary of State

Washington, DC
November 19, 2018


On behalf of the United States Government, I wish to congratulate the Monegasque people on celebrating your 162nd National Day, la Fête du Prince.

The United States and Monaco have enjoyed over 150 years of friendship, and those bonds continue to grow. We are proud to call Monaco a friend and a partner in promoting peace, trade, and cultural exchange. We look forward to continuing our collaboration to the benefit of both the United States and Monaco.