The fifteenth session of the Bilateral Consultative Commission under the U.S.-Russia New START Treaty was held in Geneva on April 10-20.
The U.S. and Russian delegations continued the discussion of practical issues related to the implementation of the Treaty.
The below is attributable to Spokesperson Heather Nauert:
Acting Secretary John J. Sullivan met with UN Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for Yemen Martin Griffiths in Washington, D.C. During the meeting, Acting Secretary Sullivan thanked Special Envoy Griffiths for his work on the challenging conflict in Yemen and underscored U.S. support for efforts to restart talks among parties, including the framework for negotiations currently being developed.
The Acting Secretary and the Special Envoy discussed the dire humanitarian situation and delivery of aid to millions of civilians and refugees living in Yemen. The two agreed that the way forward to achieve peace, prosperity, and security in Yemen is through a comprehensive political agreement that will require compromise from all sides.
Assistant Secretary of State for International Security and Nonproliferation Dr. Christopher A. Ford will head the U.S. delegation for the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Preparatory Committee meeting in Geneva, Switzerland from April 23-May 4, 2018.
Acting Assistant Secretary for Arms Control, Verification and Compliance Anita Friedt and U.S. Permanent Representative to the Conference on Disarmament Ambassador Robert A. Wood will join Assistant Secretary Ford.
At this year’s meeting, the United States will continue to emphasize the common interests NPT States Parties share in the success of the Treaty and the central role of nonproliferation in achieving the full benefits of the Treaty. Preventing the spread of nuclear weapons is a direct and fundamental benefit of the NPT to all its Parties. An effective nonproliferation regime is a key element in building security conditions conducive to progress on nuclear disarmament. It also facilitates cooperation on peaceful uses of nuclear energy by building confidence that peaceful nuclear programs will not be misused or diverted to weapons.
As we approach the 50th anniversary of the NPT, the Preparatory Committee meeting is an opportunity for all NPT Parties to recommit themselves to preserving and expanding those benefits.
Acting Secretary of State John J. Sullivan will travel to Toronto, Canada from April 21-23 to lead the U.S. delegation to the G-7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
The G-7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting offers an opportunity for foreign ministers to exchange views and collaborate on global political and security issues of mutual concern, including counterterrorism, non-proliferation, North Korea, and Syria. These conversations will set the stage for the G-7 Leaders’ Summit in Charlevoix, Canada, in June.
On the margins of the G-7 ministerial, Acting Secretary Sullivan will meet with a number of his counterparts for bilateral discussions. The Acting Secretary will also engage with staff at Consulate General Toronto.
On behalf of President Trump and the American people, I offer best wishes and congratulations to all Israelis as you mark the 70th anniversary of Israel’s independence on April 19.
The State of Israel has prevailed over every challenge it has faced over the past 70 years. In just a short time, the people of Israel have created a successful nation that has flourished and continues to thrive. The United States established our diplomatic presence in Jerusalem well before the State of Israel was born, over 170 years ago. This year, we look forward to opening the new Embassy of the United States in Jerusalem on May 14 which coincides with the 70th anniversary of President Truman recognizing the nascent State of Israel.
Israel and the United States have an unshakeable bond that has endured and grown even stronger over the past seven decades. As President Trump said in Jerusalem last May, “…let us never forget that the bond between our two nations is woven together in the hearts of our people – and their love of freedom, hope, and dignity for all.” The United States will continue to be a steadfast ally of Israel and will stand together with you today, and always.
Yom Ha’atzmaut Sameach.