Western leaders are stepping up pressure on Moscow ahead of the security talks with Russia. The top American diplomat Antony Blinken has said that the upcoming dialogue will not succeed so long as a gun is pointed towards Ukraine's head.

Antony Blinken: No progress with a gun to Ukraine's head

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged China to cease “aggressive actions” in the Indo-Pacific, speaking during a visit to the region but Beijing has rejected Blinken's assertion. VOA's senior diplomatic correspondent sheds light on it.

Indo-Pacific: Blinken urges China to stop 'aggressive actions

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has urged China to cease “aggressive actions” in the Indo-Pacific, speaking during a visit to the region.

Antony Blinken delivers remarks on Indo-Pacific, urges China to stop 'aggressive actions'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that the US will strengthen its military and economic ties with Asian allies to counter China's growing aggressiveness in the Indo-Pacific.

Blinken stated that the Biden administration is committed to maintaining regional peace and prosperity, and that it will do so by strengthening US alliances, developing new ties, and ensuring that the US military maintains "its competitive advantage."

Blinken urged China to stop "aggressive measures" in the Indo-Pacific, as Washington looks to strengthen allies against Beijing.&nbsp;

"Threats are evolving, our security approach has to evolve with them. To do that, we will lean on our greatest strength: our alliances and partnerships," Blinken said in a speech in Indonesia, outlining the administration’s Indo-Pacific plans.&nbsp;

"We’ll adopt a strategy that more closely weaves together all our instruments of national power – diplomacy, military, intelligence – with those of our allies and partners," he said.

According to him, this will entail connecting US and Asian defence companies, consolidating supply chains, and working on technical innovation.&nbsp;

China claims practically the whole resource-rich South China Sea, with four Southeast Asian states and Taiwan making conflicting claims.

Beijing has been accused of deploying anti-ship and anti-surface-to-air missiles in the area, despite a 2016 international tribunal judgement declaring Beijing's historical claim to most of the waters to be unfounded.

Washington also wants to preserve "peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," according to Blinken.

Tensions between the United States and China have risen over Taiwan, which China claims as its own and has pledged to recapture one day, by force if necessary.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that the US will strengthen its military and economic ties with Asian allies to counter China's growing aggressiveness in the Indo-Pacific.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that the US will strengthen its military and economic ties with Asian allies to counter China's growing aggressiveness in the Indo-Pacific. Blinken stated that the Biden administration is committed to maintaining regional peace and prosperity, and that it will do so by strengthening US alliances, developing new ties, and ensuring that the US military maintains "its competitive advantage." Blinken urged China to stop "aggressive measures" in the Indo-Pacific, as Washington looks to strengthen allies against Beijing. "Threats are evolving, our security approach has to evolve with them. To do that, we will lean on our greatest strength: our alliances and partnerships," Blinken said in a speech in Indonesia, outlining the administration’s Indo-Pacific plans. "We’ll adopt a strategy that more closely weaves together all our instruments of national power – diplomacy, military, intelligence – with those of our allies and partners," he said. According to him, this will entail connecting US and Asian defence companies, consolidating supply chains, and working on technical innovation. China claims practically the whole resource-rich South China Sea, with four Southeast Asian states and Taiwan making conflicting claims. Beijing has been accused of deploying anti-ship and anti-surface-to-air missiles in the area, despite a 2016 international tribunal judgement declaring Beijing's historical claim to most of the waters to be unfounded. Washington also wants to preserve "peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait," according to Blinken. Tensions between the United States and China have risen over Taiwan, which China claims as its own and has pledged to recapture one day, by force if necessary. (With inputs from agencies)

Stop 'aggressive actions' in the Indo-Pacific: US warns China

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated a warning for Russia to stay away from aggression in Ukraine, saying "any renewed aggression can trigger serious consequences," to which Putin said that Russia is trying to 'mend ties' and not 'fight'.

'Point is to mend ties not fight,' says Putin after Blinken warns Russian aggression in Ukraine

The United States designated several nations, including Pakistan, China, Iran, North Korea and Myanmar, as countries of particular concern for violation of religious freedom.

“I am designating Burma (Myanmar), the People’s Republic of China, Eritrea, Iran, the DPRK, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan as Countries of Particular Concern for having engaged in or tolerated systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said.

Blinken also announced to place Algeria, Comoros, Cuba, and Nicaragua on a Special Watch List for governments that have engaged in or tolerated severe violations of religious freedom.

The US also designated al-Shabaab, Boko Haram, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the Houthis, ISIS, ISIS-Greater Sahara, ISIS-West Africa, Jamaat Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin and the Taliban as Entities of Particular Concern’.

Asserting that the United States will not waiver in its commitment to advocate for freedom of religion or belief for all and in every country, Blinken on Wednesday&nbsp;said the challenges to religious freedom in the world today are structural, systemic, and deeply entrenched.

“They exist in every country. They demand sustained global commitment from all who are unwilling to accept hatred, intolerance, and persecution as the status quo. They require the international community’s urgent attention, he said.

The United States, he said, will continue to press all governments to remedy the shortcomings in their laws and practices, and to promote accountability for those responsible for abuses.

“The United States remains committed to working with governments, civil society organisations, and members of religious communities to advance religious freedom around the world and address the plight of individuals and communities facing abuse, harassment, and discrimination on account of what they believe, or what they do not believe, Blinken said.

The United States designated several nations, including Pakistan, China, Iran, North Korea and Myanmar, as countries of particular concern for violation of religious freedom.

The United States designated several nations, including Pakistan, China, Iran, North Korea and Myanmar, as countries of particular concern for violation of religious freedom. “I am designating Burma (Myanmar), the People’s Republic of China, Eritrea, Iran, the DPRK, Pakistan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan as Countries of Particular Concern for having engaged in or tolerated systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom," US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said. Blinken also announced to place Algeria, Comoros, Cuba, and Nicaragua on a Special Watch List for governments that have engaged in or tolerated severe violations of religious freedom. The US also designated al-Shabaab, Boko Haram, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, the Houthis, ISIS, ISIS-Greater Sahara, ISIS-West Africa, Jamaat Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin and the Taliban as Entities of Particular Concern’. Asserting that the United States will not waiver in its commitment to advocate for freedom of religion or belief for all and in every country, Blinken on Wednesday said the challenges to religious freedom in the world today are structural, systemic, and deeply entrenched. “They exist in every country. They demand sustained global commitment from all who are unwilling to accept hatred, intolerance, and persecution as the status quo. They require the international community’s urgent attention, he said. The United States, he said, will continue to press all governments to remedy the shortcomings in their laws and practices, and to promote accountability for those responsible for abuses. “The United States remains committed to working with governments, civil society organisations, and members of religious communities to advance religious freedom around the world and address the plight of individuals and communities facing abuse, harassment, and discrimination on account of what they believe, or what they do not believe, Blinken said.

US designates Pakistan, China as countries of particular concern for religious freedom violation

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has pledged to get to the bottom of so-called 'Havana syndrome'. There are suspicions that the mysterious illness plaguing US diplomats worldover could be caused by Russian microwave attacks.

Blinken on Friday named two senior figures to lead the State Department's response.

Officially called anomalous health incidents (AHI), cases of Havana syndrome first surfaced in 2016 in the Cuban capital, with US and Canadian diplomats complaining of severe headaches, nausea and possible brain damage after hearing high-pitched sounds.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-signs-law-to-support-victims-of-havana-syndrome-419398">Biden signs law to support victims of 'Havana Syndrome'</a>

Since then the number of US officials in the diplomatic and intelligence corps reporting similar experiences in countries including China, Austria, Colombia and Russia, has risen to the low hundreds, according to reports.

"All of us in the US government, and especially we at the State Department, are intently focused on getting to the bottom of what and who is causing these incidents, caring for those who've been affected, and protecting our people," Blinken said.

He said that the State Department had arranged for treatment of those affected at Johns Hopkins University, and was collecting baseline data from US diplomats before they deploy to use in analyzing reported cases.

Blinken appointed veterans envoys Jonathan Moore to coordinate the overall response and Margaret Uyehara to ensure that anyone reporting symptoms got full medical care.

He also said the department is deploying new technology at embassies and missions to help evaluate and protect staff from threats that could be linked to cases.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-likely-to-reopen-consulates-shut-in-2020-says-report-426931">US-China likely to reopen consulates shut in 2020, says report</a>

"We're drawing on the full capacity of our intelligence community. We're enlisting the best scientific minds inside and outside of government" to understand the problem, he said.

But some scientists express doubts about the Russian attacks theory and say there is not one affliction or cause of the reported cases.

And some have even dismissed the spread of cases as a mass psychogenic phenomenon in which people begin to feel sick after they learn of a health threat.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has pledged to get to the bottom of so-called 'Havana syndrome'. There are suspicions that the mysterious illness plaguing US diplomats worldover could be caused by Russian microwave attacks.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has pledged to get to the bottom of so-called 'Havana syndrome'. There are suspicions that the mysterious illness plaguing US diplomats worldover could be caused by Russian microwave attacks. Blinken on Friday named two senior figures to lead the State Department's response. Officially called anomalous health incidents (AHI), cases of Havana syndrome first surfaced in 2016 in the Cuban capital, with US and Canadian diplomats complaining of severe headaches, nausea and possible brain damage after hearing high-pitched sounds. Also Read: Biden signs law to support victims of 'Havana Syndrome' Since then the number of US officials in the diplomatic and intelligence corps reporting similar experiences in countries including China, Austria, Colombia and Russia, has risen to the low hundreds, according to reports. "All of us in the US government, and especially we at the State Department, are intently focused on getting to the bottom of what and who is causing these incidents, caring for those who've been affected, and protecting our people," Blinken said. He said that the State Department had arranged for treatment of those affected at Johns Hopkins University, and was collecting baseline data from US diplomats before they deploy to use in analyzing reported cases. Blinken appointed veterans envoys Jonathan Moore to coordinate the overall response and Margaret Uyehara to ensure that anyone reporting symptoms got full medical care. He also said the department is deploying new technology at embassies and missions to help evaluate and protect staff from threats that could be linked to cases. Also Read: US-China likely to reopen consulates shut in 2020, says report "We're drawing on the full capacity of our intelligence community. We're enlisting the best scientific minds inside and outside of government" to understand the problem, he said. But some scientists express doubts about the Russian attacks theory and say there is not one affliction or cause of the reported cases. And some have even dismissed the spread of cases as a mass psychogenic phenomenon in which people begin to feel sick after they learn of a health threat. (With inputs from agencies)

Havana Syndrome: Blinken vows to solve mystery of illness affecting US diplomats

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met in Rome to discuss broadening strategic cooperation across the world as the two democracies are raising their relations to new levels.

They discussed "efforts to deepen the US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership" during their meeting on Saturday on the sidelines of the 16th G20 Summit, according to State Department Spokesperson Ned Price.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jaishankar-calls-on-israeli-prez-pm-discusses-bilateral-relations-422302">Jaishankar calls on Israeli Prez, PM; discusses bilateral relations</a>

New Delhi and Washington have turned to the other side of the Indian Ocean that India straddles after firming up cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region multilaterally with the Quad&nbsp;the grouping of their countries and Australia and Japan.

Earlier this month, Jaishankar and Blinken held a virtual meeting with Foreign Ministers Yair Lapid of Israel and Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) -- four countries that share many regional strategic interests -- and discussed "future opportunities for collaboration in the region and globally", according to the State Department.

Jaishankar tweeted after the Rome meeting that they had a "good meeting" and "discussed a wide gamut of issues relating to our partnership. Updated each other on important regional concerns".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
A very good meeting with Secretary of State <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecBlinken</a> in Rome on sidelines of <a href="https://twitter.com/g20org?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@G20org</a>. 
 
Discussed a wide gamut of issues relating to our partnership. Updated each other on important regional concerns. <a href="https://t.co/IB4fQJtQmw">pic.twitter.com/IB4fQJtQmw</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1454506606771654659?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Price said that efforts to strengthen cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region through the Quad and common regional priorities were also discussed.

Expanding global access to vaccines was another topic they discussed given India`s position as the world`s largest producer of vaccines, he said.

India is the linchpin in the Quad's initiative to supply 1.2 billion vaccines that was reiterated at the summit of the leaders of the four countries last month in Washington.

Prime Ministers Narendra Modi of India and Scott Morrison of Australia, US President Joe Biden and the then-Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced at their summit that their Vaccine Partnership was on track to expand the capacity of India's Biological E Ltd to produce at least 1 billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines by the end of next year.

Price's readout of the meeting between Jaishankar and Blinken also contained the obligatory reference to democracy, which some in India and in the US would latch on to giving it deeper meanings.

It said they discussed "reinforcing their mutual commitments to and support for shared democratic values".

However, despite Biden's statements making his administration the global beacon of democracy, such references to democracy are missing in readouts of Blinken's meetings with leaders of most countries, especially those that are not democratic.

For example, references to democracy were left out of the India, US, Israel and UAE meeting, likely in deference to the Gulf nation.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pics-pm-modi-joins-world-leaders-for-g20-summit-in-rome-425321">Pics: PM Modi joins world leaders for G20 summit in Rome</a>

It didn't figure in the readout of his recent meetings with Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani or Zayed or Saudi Foreign Ministers Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

Blinken and Jaishankar have been in close contact through phone calls and virtual meetings and have met in London in May, in Washington also in May and in New Delhi in July.

They are expected to meet again this year in Washington along with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin for the 2+2 ministerial meeting of the defence and foreign policy heads of the two nations.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met in Rome to discuss broadening strategic cooperation across the world as the two democracies are raising their relations to new levels.

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met in Rome to discuss broadening strategic cooperation across the world as the two democracies are raising their relations to new levels. They discussed "efforts to deepen the US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership" during their meeting on Saturday on the sidelines of the 16th G20 Summit, according to State Department Spokesperson Ned Price. Also Read | Jaishankar calls on Israeli Prez, PM; discusses bilateral relations New Delhi and Washington have turned to the other side of the Indian Ocean that India straddles after firming up cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region multilaterally with the Quad the grouping of their countries and Australia and Japan. Earlier this month, Jaishankar and Blinken held a virtual meeting with Foreign Ministers Yair Lapid of Israel and Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) -- four countries that share many regional strategic interests -- and discussed "future opportunities for collaboration in the region and globally", according to the State Department. Jaishankar tweeted after the Rome meeting that they had a "good meeting" and "discussed a wide gamut of issues relating to our partnership. Updated each other on important regional concerns". A very good meeting with Secretary of State @SecBlinken in Rome on sidelines of @G20org. Discussed a wide gamut of issues relating to our partnership. Updated each other on important regional concerns. pic.twitter.com/IB4fQJtQmw — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 30, 2021 × Price said that efforts to strengthen cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region through the Quad and common regional priorities were also discussed. Expanding global access to vaccines was another topic they discussed given India`s position as the world`s largest producer of vaccines, he said. India is the linchpin in the Quad's initiative to supply 1.2 billion vaccines that was reiterated at the summit of the leaders of the four countries last month in Washington. Prime Ministers Narendra Modi of India and Scott Morrison of Australia, US President Joe Biden and the then-Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced at their summit that their Vaccine Partnership was on track to expand the capacity of India's Biological E Ltd to produce at least 1 billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines by the end of next year. Price's readout of the meeting between Jaishankar and Blinken also contained the obligatory reference to democracy, which some in India and in the US would latch on to giving it deeper meanings. It said they discussed "reinforcing their mutual commitments to and support for shared democratic values". However, despite Biden's statements making his administration the global beacon of democracy, such references to democracy are missing in readouts of Blinken's meetings with leaders of most countries, especially those that are not democratic. For example, references to democracy were left out of the India, US, Israel and UAE meeting, likely in deference to the Gulf nation. Also Read | Pics: PM Modi joins world leaders for G20 summit in Rome It didn't figure in the readout of his recent meetings with Qatar Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani or Zayed or Saudi Foreign Ministers Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. Blinken and Jaishankar have been in close contact through phone calls and virtual meetings and have met in London in May, in Washington also in May and in New Delhi in July. They are expected to meet again this year in Washington along with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin for the 2+2 ministerial meeting of the defence and foreign policy heads of the two nations.

Jaishankar, Blinken meet in Rome, discuss 'Global Strategic Partnership'

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet Sunday in Rome with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the State Department said, in only their second face to face session amid acute tensions between the two powers.

The meeting in Rome, where both diplomats were attending the G20 summit, is listed on Blinken's public schedule for Sunday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-china-chief-trade-negotiators-hold-candid-exchange-419381">US, China chief trade negotiators hold 'candid exchange'</a>

It will be the first between Blinken and Wang since a stormy session in Alaska back in March during which the Chinese delegation berated the American side as TV cameras rolled.

Tensions are high between the world's two biggest economies on a plethora of fronts, including trade, human rights, Taiwan and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Earlier this week Washington ordered China Telecom Americas to discontinue its services within 60 days -- ending nearly two decades of operations in the country and piling further strain on relations between the two countries.

US President Joe Biden has pressed ahead with a hardline trade policy against Beijing broadly in line with that of his predecessor Donald Trump, whose bombastic approach sent tensions soaring.

Tensions have also soared over Taiwan in recent months.

China claims the self-governing, US-allied island as its own, and vows it will retake it one day -- by force if necessary.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-talk-to-turkeys-erdogan-over-threat-to-expel-western-nations-envoys-425469">Biden to talk to Turkey's Erdogan over threat to expel western nations' envoys</a>

Earlier this month Washington confirmed that a small number of US troops are on the island to help with training.

On Tuesday, Blinken called for Taiwan to be allowed greater involvement in UN agencies, though Beijing insisted it has no place on the world's diplomatic stage.

Biden has also rebuked Beijing over its sabre-rattling on Taiwan.&nbsp;

He said this month the US was ready to defend the island from a Chinese invasion -- though the White House quickly walked back those comments amid warnings from Beijing, continuing a strategy of ambiguity on whether it would intervene militarily if China attacked.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet Sunday in Rome with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the State Department said, in only their second face to face session amid acute tensions between the two powers.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet Sunday in Rome with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the State Department said, in only their second face to face session amid acute tensions between the two powers. The meeting in Rome, where both diplomats were attending the G20 summit, is listed on Blinken's public schedule for Sunday. Also Read | US, China chief trade negotiators hold 'candid exchange' It will be the first between Blinken and Wang since a stormy session in Alaska back in March during which the Chinese delegation berated the American side as TV cameras rolled. Tensions are high between the world's two biggest economies on a plethora of fronts, including trade, human rights, Taiwan and the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this week Washington ordered China Telecom Americas to discontinue its services within 60 days -- ending nearly two decades of operations in the country and piling further strain on relations between the two countries. US President Joe Biden has pressed ahead with a hardline trade policy against Beijing broadly in line with that of his predecessor Donald Trump, whose bombastic approach sent tensions soaring. Tensions have also soared over Taiwan in recent months. China claims the self-governing, US-allied island as its own, and vows it will retake it one day -- by force if necessary. Also Read | Biden to talk to Turkey's Erdogan over threat to expel western nations' envoys Earlier this month Washington confirmed that a small number of US troops are on the island to help with training. On Tuesday, Blinken called for Taiwan to be allowed greater involvement in UN agencies, though Beijing insisted it has no place on the world's diplomatic stage. Biden has also rebuked Beijing over its sabre-rattling on Taiwan. He said this month the US was ready to defend the island from a Chinese invasion -- though the White House quickly walked back those comments amid warnings from Beijing, continuing a strategy of ambiguity on whether it would intervene militarily if China attacked.

Blinken to meet Chinese foreign minister in Rome: State Dept

Following a meeting in Washington with his Israeli and United Arab Emirates counterparts, Secretary of State Antony Blinken laid out a tougher U.S. Stance toward Tehran's new government. Washington has said that it is ready to consider "all options" if Iran is unwilling to return to the 2015 nuclear deal.

Israeli foreign minister warn Iran against nuclear weapons

Secretary of State Antony J&nbsp;Blinken recently announced sanctions against seven public officials in El Salvador and Guatemala, including five Salvadoran Supreme Court justices, putting them on the State Department’s official list of “Undemocratic and Corrupt Actors.” This round added to the more than 300 individuals the United States had already placed sanctions on in Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala and to U.S. diplomatic and financial sanctions on the governments of Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela.

While the US&nbsp;government has applied sanctions on nations and leaders around the world accused of human rights abuses and graft, in Latin America, sanctions have become one of the central pillars of US&nbsp;policy to defend democracy and combat corruption. All of these governments and individuals are probably worthy targets of sanctions, but to what end?

Sanctions can be an important diplomatic tool when applied in a calibrated fashion. But they are rarely accompanied by clear measures of their failure or success and criteria for their possible lifting.

The Treasury Department announced months ago that it was reviewing US&nbsp;sanctions’ effects on the well-being of people in the targeted countries. But the review, requested by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, has taken longer than expected and appears to focus on economywide sanctions and not the increasingly common tool of individual sanctions.

One opportunity to reassess and adjust sanctions is occurring in Mexico, as the Venezuelan government negotiates with its democratic opposition. While the Nicolás Maduro regime has said it would not agree to internationally supervised elections until sanctions on the state-owned oil company are lifted, the White House, along with Canada and the European Union, has signaled willingness to loosen some sanctions in exchange for reforms. What those reforms need to be, and which sanctions would be lifted, are not clear.

US&nbsp;sanctions have a long history in Latin America. Cuba is the most obvious example of how sanctions can be piled on, even if they clearly have failed to achieve anything. Originally established in 1962, the U.S. economic embargo on Cuba was codified into law by Congress in 1992 and again in 1996, all with the stated intent of improving human rights and overturning the Communist government. Almost 60 years later, not only does Cuba remain one of the most repressive societies in the world, but in 2018 President Raúl Castro passed the torch to a next generation, with the appointment of the Communist Party apparatchik Miguel Díaz-Canel.

On the campaign trail in 2020, Joe Biden promised to revisit U.S. policy toward Cuba. But rather than seeking a way to scale back President Donald Trump’s restrictions on travel and remittances to the island, after the Cuban government’s crackdown on mostly peaceful demonstrators in July, the Biden White House imposed its own sanctions on four members of the Cuban government and on the national police. It was another ineffective move, since the existing sanctions had failed to prevent the original crackdown.

Central America has also shown how impotent US&nbsp;economic punishments can be. In response to a crackdown against democratic activists by President Daniel Ortega of Nicaragua, the Trump and Biden administrations have imposed sanctions on more than 100 public officials, including Mr. Ortega and his wife and the vice president, Rosario Murillo. Despite these punishments and the suspension of US&nbsp;development support, seven of Nicaragua’s potential opposition candidates for the Nov. 7 presidential elections are in jail or under house arrest and over 100 political prisoners remain behind bars.

Before Mr. Blinken’s most recent additions, this year the White House had already placed sanctions against more than 55 Central Americans determined to have engaged in corruption. Beyond the risk of just adding more and more people to the list of reprobates ad infinitum under individual sanctions, the economic repercussions of financials sanctions, according to Tufts professor Daniel Drezner, “are likely to trigger repression, corruption and backsliding on human development indicators.”

Over the past decade Venezuela has become the target of the some of the most stringent US&nbsp;coercive measures, starting with a raft of sanctions against individuals under President Barack Obama’s administration. The Trump administration expanded the sanctions prohibiting transactions with Venezuela’s state-owned oil and gas companies after the widely questioned 2018 re-election of Mr. Maduro. By 2017 the US&nbsp;government had put sanctions on over 160 Venezuelans for reasons ranging from narcotics trafficking, corruption, ties to terrorists and human rights abuses. The apparent goal in this cascade of sanctions was to topple Mr. Maduro and put his main opponent, Juan Guaidó, in office.

With Mr. Maduro’s government engaged in its fifth attempt at negotiations with the opposition, the Biden administration has the opportunity to demonstrate a new commitment to use sanctions as a carrot rather than a stick — not just for Venezuela, but for the region.

Before the two sides conclude the current negotiations in Mexico, the White House needs to be clear what specific reforms will lead to the lifting of which specific sanctions. The compromise must include Venezuela’s release of 340 or so political prisoners, the delivery of international humanitarian assistance of food and medicines through independent organizations without government interference, and free and fair voting in the Nov. 21 regional and municipal elections. In return, the US&nbsp;government should agree to lift export restrictions on goods and equipment Venezuela needs to process oil, generate electricity and provide diesel for public transport. To minimize the risk that the oil revenue would boost Mr. Maduro’s corrupt state and his cronies, the United States would need to insist that the bulk of the revenue pay for food imports and critical public services to alleviate the suffering of poor Venezuelans.

But beyond any immediate refinement of Venezuelan sanctions, the White House, Congress and experts in the field need to conduct a public bipartisan review of America’s ever-growing sanctions regime to assess the humanitarian impact and evaluate how well the nation’s goals are furthered by such punitive policies, even as Treasury pursues its assessment.

Such an evaluation should establish other diplomatic tools to lay out concrete, realistic steps toward calibrated relief of sanctions (regime change does not count), diplomatic channels to negotiate through third parties, financial incentives through development aid or assurances to private investors to induce change, and coordinating with other sanction-applying entities in these diplomatic efforts.

Slapping sanctions on corrupt, human rights-abusing regimes and individuals may make diplomats and elected officials feel good. But as this becomes an increasingly central part of US&nbsp;policy in Latin America, we need to understand when they aren’t doing their job and be willing to adjust.

Secretary of State Antony J Blinken recently announced sanctions against seven public officials in El Salvador and Guatemala, including five Salvadoran Supreme Court justices, putting them on the State Department’s official list of “Undemocratic and Corrupt Actors.

Secretary of State Antony J Blinken recently announced sanctions against seven public officials in El Salvador and Guatemala, including five Salvadoran Supreme Court justices, putting them on the State Department’s official list of “Undemocratic and Corrupt Actors.” This round added to the more than 300 individuals the United States had already placed sanctions on in Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala and to U.S. diplomatic and financial sanctions on the governments of Cuba, Nicaragua and Venezuela. While the US government has applied sanctions on nations and leaders around the world accused of human rights abuses and graft, in Latin America, sanctions have become one of the central pillars of US policy to defend democracy and combat corruption. All of these governments and individuals are probably worthy targets of sanctions, but to what end? Sanctions can be an important diplomatic tool when applied in a calibrated fashion. But they are rarely accompanied by clear measures of their failure or success and criteria for their possible lifting. The Treasury Department announced months ago that it was reviewing US sanctions’ effects on the well-being of people in the targeted countries. But the review, requested by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, has taken longer than expected and appears to focus on economywide sanctions and not the increasingly common tool of individual sanctions. One opportunity to reassess and adjust sanctions is occurring in Mexico, as the Venezuelan government negotiates with its democratic opposition. While the Nicolás Maduro regime has said it would not agree to internationally supervised elections until sanctions on the state-owned oil company are lifted, the White House, along with Canada and the European Union, has signaled willingness to loosen some sanctions in exchange for reforms. What those reforms need to be, and which sanctions would be lifted, are not clear. US sanctions have a long history in Latin America. Cuba is the most obvious example of how sanctions can be piled on, even if they clearly have failed to achieve anything. Originally established in 1962, the U.S. economic embargo on Cuba was codified into law by Congress in 1992 and again in 1996, all with the stated intent of improving human rights and overturning the Communist government. Almost 60 years later, not only does Cuba remain one of the most repressive societies in the world, but in 2018 President Raúl Castro passed the torch to a next generation, with the appointment of the Communist Party apparatchik Miguel Díaz-Canel. On the campaign trail in 2020, Joe Biden promised to revisit U.S. policy toward Cuba. But rather than seeking a way to scale back President Donald Trump’s restrictions on travel and remittances to the island, after the Cuban government’s crackdown on mostly peaceful demonstrators in July, the Biden White House imposed its own sanctions on four members of the Cuban government and on the national police. It was another ineffective move, since the existing sanctions had failed to prevent the original crackdown. Central America has also shown how impotent US economic punishments can be. In response to a crackdown against democratic activists by President Daniel Ortega of Nicaragua, the Trump and Biden administrations have imposed sanctions on more than 100 public officials, including Mr. Ortega and his wife and the vice president, Rosario Murillo. Despite these punishments and the suspension of US development support, seven of Nicaragua’s potential opposition candidates for the Nov. 7 presidential elections are in jail or under house arrest and over 100 political prisoners remain behind bars. Before Mr. Blinken’s most recent additions, this year the White House had already placed sanctions against more than 55 Central Americans determined to have engaged in corruption. Beyond the risk of just adding more and more people to the list of reprobates ad infinitum under individual sanctions, the economic repercussions of financials sanctions, according to Tufts professor Daniel Drezner, “are likely to trigger repression, corruption and backsliding on human development indicators.” Over the past decade Venezuela has become the target of the some of the most stringent US coercive measures, starting with a raft of sanctions against individuals under President Barack Obama’s administration. The Trump administration expanded the sanctions prohibiting transactions with Venezuela’s state-owned oil and gas companies after the widely questioned 2018 re-election of Mr. Maduro. By 2017 the US government had put sanctions on over 160 Venezuelans for reasons ranging from narcotics trafficking, corruption, ties to terrorists and human rights abuses. The apparent goal in this cascade of sanctions was to topple Mr. Maduro and put his main opponent, Juan Guaidó, in office. With Mr. Maduro’s government engaged in its fifth attempt at negotiations with the opposition, the Biden administration has the opportunity to demonstrate a new commitment to use sanctions as a carrot rather than a stick — not just for Venezuela, but for the region. Before the two sides conclude the current negotiations in Mexico, the White House needs to be clear what specific reforms will lead to the lifting of which specific sanctions. The compromise must include Venezuela’s release of 340 or so political prisoners, the delivery of international humanitarian assistance of food and medicines through independent organizations without government interference, and free and fair voting in the Nov. 21 regional and municipal elections. In return, the US government should agree to lift export restrictions on goods and equipment Venezuela needs to process oil, generate electricity and provide diesel for public transport. To minimize the risk that the oil revenue would boost Mr. Maduro’s corrupt state and his cronies, the United States would need to insist that the bulk of the revenue pay for food imports and critical public services to alleviate the suffering of poor Venezuelans. But beyond any immediate refinement of Venezuelan sanctions, the White House, Congress and experts in the field need to conduct a public bipartisan review of America’s ever-growing sanctions regime to assess the humanitarian impact and evaluate how well the nation’s goals are furthered by such punitive policies, even as Treasury pursues its assessment. Such an evaluation should establish other diplomatic tools to lay out concrete, realistic steps toward calibrated relief of sanctions (regime change does not count), diplomatic channels to negotiate through third parties, financial incentives through development aid or assurances to private investors to induce change, and coordinating with other sanction-applying entities in these diplomatic efforts. Slapping sanctions on corrupt, human rights-abusing regimes and individuals may make diplomats and elected officials feel good. But as this becomes an increasingly central part of US policy in Latin America, we need to understand when they aren’t doing their job and be willing to adjust.

The US needs a sanctions policy that works

The reception could hardly have been warmer when Secretary of State Antony Blinken appeared in France’s ornate foreign ministry building on a late June day alongside his French counterpart.

Blinken delighted his audience by beginning his remarks in fluent French, which a local interviewer would later brand “absolutely perfect,” and reminiscing about the more than 10 years he spent living in Paris. He joked about how he binge-watches French television shows such as “Le Bureau des Légendes” (“The Bureau”) and “Dix Pour Cent” (“Call My Agent!”).

Paris, he concluded, is “my second home.”

But Blinken will make an awkward return there this week, when he arrives for a long-scheduled meeting of the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, a trip that will conveniently double as a chance to further soothe French anger over a minor diplomatic crisis that erupted last month over Australia’s submarine purchase.

French officials found themselves blindsided when the news leaked in the Australian media that the United States and Britain were going to help Australia deploy a new fleet of nuclear submarines, replacing a $66 billion contract Australia had signed with a French contractor for a dozen attack submarines.

US&nbsp;and Australian officials say that deal was already on the rocks, partly because France’s diesel submarines have a shorter range and are more easily detectable than the nuclear ones that America and Britain can provide.

Despite that explanation, officials in Paris fumed about backstabbing and betrayal. French President Emmanuel Macron even recalled the country's ambassador to the United States from Washington for several days.

The anger has already subsided. US&nbsp;President Joe Biden placed a contrite call to Macron last month; Blinken has conceded that the United States could have handled the matter more gracefully; and the French ambassador is already back in Washington.

But the diplomatic row hit Blinken especially hard, according to people familiar with his reaction, given his deep attachment to France. Blinken’s mother still lives in Paris, and hosted a dinner in his honor during his June visit there. He also retains an emotional investment in the ups and downs of France’s national soccer team.

His arrival at the State Department’s Foggy Bottom headquarters was greeted in France with elation, and taken as assurance that Paris would be first among equals as the Biden administration vowed to rebuild Western European alliances corroded under President Donald Trump.

The reception could hardly have been warmer when Secretary of State Antony Blinken appeared in France’s ornate foreign ministry building on a late June day alongside his French counterpart.

The reception could hardly have been warmer when Secretary of State Antony Blinken appeared in France’s ornate foreign ministry building on a late June day alongside his French counterpart. Blinken delighted his audience by beginning his remarks in fluent French, which a local interviewer would later brand “absolutely perfect,” and reminiscing about the more than 10 years he spent living in Paris. He joked about how he binge-watches French television shows such as “Le Bureau des Légendes” (“The Bureau”) and “Dix Pour Cent” (“Call My Agent!”). Paris, he concluded, is “my second home.” But Blinken will make an awkward return there this week, when he arrives for a long-scheduled meeting of the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, a trip that will conveniently double as a chance to further soothe French anger over a minor diplomatic crisis that erupted last month over Australia’s submarine purchase. French officials found themselves blindsided when the news leaked in the Australian media that the United States and Britain were going to help Australia deploy a new fleet of nuclear submarines, replacing a $66 billion contract Australia had signed with a French contractor for a dozen attack submarines. US and Australian officials say that deal was already on the rocks, partly because France’s diesel submarines have a shorter range and are more easily detectable than the nuclear ones that America and Britain can provide. Despite that explanation, officials in Paris fumed about backstabbing and betrayal. French President Emmanuel Macron even recalled the country's ambassador to the United States from Washington for several days. The anger has already subsided. US President Joe Biden placed a contrite call to Macron last month; Blinken has conceded that the United States could have handled the matter more gracefully; and the French ambassador is already back in Washington. But the diplomatic row hit Blinken especially hard, according to people familiar with his reaction, given his deep attachment to France. Blinken’s mother still lives in Paris, and hosted a dinner in his honor during his June visit there. He also retains an emotional investment in the ups and downs of France’s national soccer team. His arrival at the State Department’s Foggy Bottom headquarters was greeted in France with elation, and taken as assurance that Paris would be first among equals as the Biden administration vowed to rebuild Western European alliances corroded under President Donald Trump.

Blinken faces an awkward visit to Paris, his ‘second home’

After claiming that the U.S. will reassess its ties with Pakistan, Blinken hosted Pak FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi to work on the future of Afghanistan. Palki Sharma asks: Why is America speaking in two voices?

Gravitas US Edition: Blinken-Qureshi meet: Diplomacy or Duplicity?

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken&nbsp;held talks with Pakistan&nbsp;over Afghanistan on the sidelines of UN General Assembly on Thursday. He said he believed the world was united on pressing the Taliban.

Blinken met his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi. Pakistan is the key ally of Taliban regime. Blinken also held talks with ministers of four other veto-wielding Security Council members including China and Russia.

"I think there is very strong unity of approach and unity of purpose," Blinken told reporters.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/new-taliban-guidelines-stir-fear-about-the-future-of-press-freedom-41537">New Taliban guidelines stir fear about the future of press freedom</a>

US State Department said that Bliken highlighted "the importance of coordinating our diplomatic engagement" in talks with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi.

Pakistan has been speaking in favour of engagement with Taliban and unfreezing of Afghan assets. However, Qureshi has said that&nbsp;there was no rush to recognise a new Taliban government, a step opposed by Western nations.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-leader-says-executions-will-return-in-afghanistan-415399">Taliban leader says executions will return in Afghanistan</a>

Qureshi, opening his meeting with Blinken, said, "We have to find a way of collectively working to achieve our common objective, which is peace and stability."

China and Russia have both moved to engage with the Taliban but have also stopped short of recognition and have longstanding concerns about Islamic extremism.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/after-taliban-sacks-v-c-around-70-teaching-staff-of-kabul-university-resign-415340">After Taliban sacks V-C, around 70 teaching staff of Kabul University resign</a>

The Taliban swept through Afghanistan last month after President Joe Biden withdrew US troops, saying there was no point in extending America's longest war beyond 20 years.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks with Pakistan over Afghanistan on the sidelines of UN General Assembly on Thursday. He said he believed the world was united on pressing the Taliban.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks with Pakistan over Afghanistan on the sidelines of UN General Assembly on Thursday. He said he believed the world was united on pressing the Taliban. Blinken met his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi. Pakistan is the key ally of Taliban regime. Blinken also held talks with ministers of four other veto-wielding Security Council members including China and Russia. "I think there is very strong unity of approach and unity of purpose," Blinken told reporters. Also Read | New Taliban guidelines stir fear about the future of press freedom US State Department said that Bliken highlighted "the importance of coordinating our diplomatic engagement" in talks with Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi. Pakistan has been speaking in favour of engagement with Taliban and unfreezing of Afghan assets. However, Qureshi has said that there was no rush to recognise a new Taliban government, a step opposed by Western nations. Also Read | Taliban leader says executions will return in Afghanistan Qureshi, opening his meeting with Blinken, said, "We have to find a way of collectively working to achieve our common objective, which is peace and stability." China and Russia have both moved to engage with the Taliban but have also stopped short of recognition and have longstanding concerns about Islamic extremism. Also Read | After Taliban sacks V-C, around 70 teaching staff of Kabul University resign The Taliban swept through Afghanistan last month after President Joe Biden withdrew US troops, saying there was no point in extending America's longest war beyond 20 years. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken speaks to Pak foreign minister Qureshi; Afghanistan on agenda

The US appeared to be in damage control mode as it called France a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific. France is angry over US-UK-Australia submarine deal. In other news, US medicale experts will vote on Pfizer Covid boosters. Check out what's happening this morning

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/damage-control-mode-blinken-calls-france-vital-partner-in-indo-pacific-413653">Damage control mode: Blinken calls angry France a vital partner in Indo-Pacific</a>

Blinken claimed that US has been informing France about US-UK-Australia submarine deal. But this was refuted from French circles

<img alt="Blinken" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0016d812-ffec-4f1b-9328-dd6462bac495" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Blinken_0.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-medical-experts-to-vote-on-pfizer-covid-19-boosters-413651">US medical experts to vote on Pfizer COVID-19 boosters</a>

President Joe Biden's administration announced in August a plan to roll out third shots to everyone, not just the immune compromised already able to receive them, starting from September 20

<img alt="Vaccine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1259aeb2-d71e-40c0-a6d2-24340f31e7f7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pfizer_1.JPG" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-bolsonaro-going-to-un-meet-despite-being-unvaccinated-413650">Brazil's Bolsonaro going to UN meet despite being unvaccinated</a> 
 
"Next week I will be at the UN General Assembly (UNGA), where I will give an opening speech" on Tuesday, the president said during a social media broadcast

<img alt="Bolsonaro" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ff1a4d6-2686-4b2e-b02c-7d08de6a7b5b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bolsonaro_0.JPG" />

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The US appeared to be in damage control mode as it called France a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific. France is angry over US-UK-Australia submarine deal. In other news, US medicale experts will vote on Pfizer Covid boosters.

The US appeared to be in damage control mode as it called France a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific. France is angry over US-UK-Australia submarine deal. In other news, US medicale experts will vote on Pfizer Covid boosters. Check out what's happening this morning Damage control mode: Blinken calls angry France a vital partner in Indo-Pacific Blinken claimed that US has been informing France about US-UK-Australia submarine deal. But this was refuted from French circles US medical experts to vote on Pfizer COVID-19 boosters President Joe Biden's administration announced in August a plan to roll out third shots to everyone, not just the immune compromised already able to receive them, starting from September 20 Brazil's Bolsonaro going to UN meet despite being unvaccinated "Next week I will be at the UN General Assembly (UNGA), where I will give an opening speech" on Tuesday, the president said during a social media broadcast ×

Morning news brief: US does damage control, unvaccinated Bolsonaro and UN meet, more

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday appeared to be in a damage control mode as he called France a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific. His words have come after the US-UK-Australia submarine deal. France had reacted angrily to the deal

Blinken was speaking at a press conference after meeting US and Australian foreign and defense ministers

"We cooperate incredibly closely with France on many shared priorities in the Indo-Pacific but also beyond around the world. We're going to continue to do so. We place fundamental value on that relationship, on that partnership," Blinken said.

UK-US and Australia said on Wednesday that they would establish a security partnership for the Indo-Pacific that would help Australia acquire U.S. nuclear-powered submarines and see it scrap a $40 billion French-designed submarine deal.

France reacted angrily to the loss of the deal, calling it a "stab in the back."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-says-biden-acted-like-trump-to-sink-australia-defence-deal-413622">France says Biden acted like Trump to sink Australia defence deal</a>

At the press conference, Blinken said that US officials had been in touch with their French counterparts to discuss the deal including before the announcement.

However, Reuters quoted a French official on condition of anonymity that Americans had not informed them until French officials had seen media reports about the deal.

In 2016, Australia selected French shipbuilder Naval Group to build a new submarine fleet worth $40 billion to replace its more than two-decades-old Collins submarines.

The United States and its allies are looking for ways to push back against China’s growing power and influence, particularly its military buildup, pressure on Taiwan and deployments in the contested South China Sea.

The White House on Thursday defended the US decision, rejecting criticism from both China and France over the deal.

"We do not seek conflict with China," White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters.

China said the United States, Australia and the UK were "severely damaging regional peace and stability."

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday appeared to be in a damage control mode as he called France a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific. His words have come after the US-UK-Australia submarine deal.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday appeared to be in a damage control mode as he called France a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific. His words have come after the US-UK-Australia submarine deal. France had reacted angrily to the deal Blinken was speaking at a press conference after meeting US and Australian foreign and defense ministers "We cooperate incredibly closely with France on many shared priorities in the Indo-Pacific but also beyond around the world. We're going to continue to do so. We place fundamental value on that relationship, on that partnership," Blinken said. UK-US and Australia said on Wednesday that they would establish a security partnership for the Indo-Pacific that would help Australia acquire U.S. nuclear-powered submarines and see it scrap a $40 billion French-designed submarine deal. France reacted angrily to the loss of the deal, calling it a "stab in the back." Also Read | France says Biden acted like Trump to sink Australia defence deal At the press conference, Blinken said that US officials had been in touch with their French counterparts to discuss the deal including before the announcement. However, Reuters quoted a French official on condition of anonymity that Americans had not informed them until French officials had seen media reports about the deal. In 2016, Australia selected French shipbuilder Naval Group to build a new submarine fleet worth $40 billion to replace its more than two-decades-old Collins submarines. The United States and its allies are looking for ways to push back against China’s growing power and influence, particularly its military buildup, pressure on Taiwan and deployments in the contested South China Sea. The White House on Thursday defended the US decision, rejecting criticism from both China and France over the deal. "We do not seek conflict with China," White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters. China said the United States, Australia and the UK were "severely damaging regional peace and stability." (With inputs from agencies)

Damage control mode: Blinken calls angry France a vital partner in Indo-Pacific

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken took down a tweet in which he declared the US would "stand with the people of Hong Kong," accusing Beijing of undermining the city's long-term political stability.

He sent the statement after seven opposition district councillors in Hong Kong were disqualified this week after officials declared their oaths to be invalid.&nbsp;

On September 16, Blinken tweeted his disapproval in a direct manner. 
 
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On the same day, US State Department spokesman Ned Price tweeted the same message, which was also deleted.

A day later, Blinken sent a more moderate tweet, removing the US offer to stand with Hong Kong residents and the obvious exhortation to Beijing to listen to the voices of all Hong Kong residents.&nbsp;

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The PRC’s disqualification of seven pro-democracy district councilors undermines the ability of people in Hong Kong to participate in their governance. Governments should serve the people they represent. Decreasing representation goes against the spirit of Hong Kong’s Basic Law.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1438615977680322563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken took down a tweet in which he declared the US would "stand with the people of Hong Kong," accusing Beijing of undermining the city's long-term political stability.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken took down a tweet in which he declared the US would "stand with the people of Hong Kong," accusing Beijing of undermining the city's long-term political stability. He sent the statement after seven opposition district councillors in Hong Kong were disqualified this week after officials declared their oaths to be invalid. On September 16, Blinken tweeted his disapproval in a direct manner. On the same day, US State Department spokesman Ned Price tweeted the same message, which was also deleted. A day later, Blinken sent a more moderate tweet, removing the US offer to stand with Hong Kong residents and the obvious exhortation to Beijing to listen to the voices of all Hong Kong residents. The PRC’s disqualification of seven pro-democracy district councilors undermines the ability of people in Hong Kong to participate in their governance. Governments should serve the people they represent. Decreasing representation goes against the spirit of Hong Kong’s Basic Law. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) September 16, 2021 × (With inputs from agencies)

'US would stand with people of Hong Kong', tweets Blinken; later deletes it

U.S. Secretary of State, Blinken has said that Washington will 'reassess' its relationship with Pakistan, in light of its involvement in Afghanistan. Palki Sharma gets you the key highlights from his testimony.

Gravitas: The Blinken Testimony: Key highlights

US secretary of state, Antony Blinken while testifying in front of the US foreign affairs committee&nbsp;on the hasty American pull-out from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-killing-civilians-in-panjshir-valley-says-report-412897">Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;said that the US will be reassessing its ties with Pakistan.

Blinken noted that Pakistan had harboured members of the Taliban before including terrorists from the Haqqani Network. The Taliban has appointed Siajuddin Haqqani as the group's interior minister in the new Afghanistan government.

Blinken told lawmakers that the US planned to reassess its relationship with Pakistan in the coming weeks and the role played by Islamabad over the last 20 years and the role that it would like it to play in the future.

Watch:

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"We are going to be looking at the role that Pakistan has played over the last 20 years and also the role that we would want to see it playing in the coming years," Blinken said. 
&nbsp; 
The US secretary of state added that Pakistan had a multiplicity of interests including some which were in clear conflict with the US.

Blinken's comments come after Pakistan's intelligence chief visited Kabul as the Taliban announced its new government.

"What we have to look at is an insistence that every country, to include Pakistan, make good on the expectations that the international community has of what is required of a Taliban-led government if it is&nbsp;to receive any legitimacy of any kind or any support," Blinken told the US lawmakers.

Blinken said Pakistan was "hedging its bets constantly about the future of Afghanistan" while adding, "It's&nbsp;one that's involved harbouring members of the Taliban, including the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/terrorist-vs-terrorist-al-qaeda-leader-zawahiri-claims-credit-for-911-islamic-state-asks-if-he-is-still-alive-412505">Haqqanis</a>,"&nbsp;

"So Pakistan needs to line up with a broad majority of the international community in working toward those ends and in upholding those expectations," the US secretary of state added.

(With inputs from agencies)

US secretary of state, Antony Blinken while testifying in front of the US foreign affairs committee on the hasty American pull-out from Afghanistan said that the US will be reassessing its ties with Pakistan.

US secretary of state, Antony Blinken while testifying in front of the US foreign affairs committee on the hasty American pull-out from Afghanistan said that the US will be reassessing its ties with Pakistan. Blinken noted that Pakistan had harboured members of the Taliban before including terrorists from the Haqqani Network. The Taliban has appointed Siajuddin Haqqani as the group's interior minister in the new Afghanistan government. Blinken told lawmakers that the US planned to reassess its relationship with Pakistan in the coming weeks and the role played by Islamabad over the last 20 years and the role that it would like it to play in the future. Watch: "We are going to be looking at the role that Pakistan has played over the last 20 years and also the role that we would want to see it playing in the coming years," Blinken said. The US secretary of state added that Pakistan had a multiplicity of interests including some which were in clear conflict with the US. Blinken's comments come after Pakistan's intelligence chief visited Kabul as the Taliban announced its new government. "What we have to look at is an insistence that every country, to include Pakistan, make good on the expectations that the international community has of what is required of a Taliban-led government if it is to receive any legitimacy of any kind or any support," Blinken told the US lawmakers. Blinken said Pakistan was "hedging its bets constantly about the future of Afghanistan" while adding, "It's one that's involved harbouring members of the Taliban, including the Haqqanis," "So Pakistan needs to line up with a broad majority of the international community in working toward those ends and in upholding those expectations," the US secretary of state added. (With inputs from agencies)

Will reassess ties with Pakistan, says Blinken to US lawmakers

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday headed to Qatar. This is his first trip since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. Qatar is a major US military base and has been a gateway for 55,000 people airlifted out of Afghanistan after Taliban's takeover of the country.

After his visit to Qatar, Blinken will head to US airbase of Ramstein in Germany. Thousands of Afghans moving to United States have been temporarily housed at the air base. Blinken will hold a a virtual 20-nation ministerial meeting on the crisis alongside German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas.

Blinken said that in Qatar he will "express our deep gratitude for all that they're doing to support the evacuation effort" and meet rescued Afghans as well as US diplomats, who have relocated functions from the shuttered embassy in Kabul to Doha.

He will also speak to the Qataris about efforts alongside Turkey to reopen Kabul's ramshackle airport -- a pressing priority that is necessary for flying in badly needed humanitarian aid and evacuating remaining Afghans.

The Taliban have promised that they will keep letting Afghans leave if they want to -- one of the key issues that US allies expect to discuss in the talks in Germany.

The US says it will monitor the Taliban's follow-up on commitments

But US officials said that Blinken does not plan to meet the Taliban, who have also made Doha their diplomatic base from which they negotiated the US pullout with the previous administration of Donald Trump.

"On the scope of high-level engagement with the Taliban, I would put that sort of in the recognition category to be considered or to be determined as we see what happens with their efforts to govern," said Dean Thompson, the top US diplomat for South and Central Asia.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday headed to Qatar. This is his first trip since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. Qatar is a major US military base and has been a gateway for 55,000 people airlifted out of Afghanistan after Taliban's takeover of the country.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday headed to Qatar. This is his first trip since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan. Qatar is a major US military base and has been a gateway for 55,000 people airlifted out of Afghanistan after Taliban's takeover of the country. After his visit to Qatar, Blinken will head to US airbase of Ramstein in Germany. Thousands of Afghans moving to United States have been temporarily housed at the air base. Blinken will hold a a virtual 20-nation ministerial meeting on the crisis alongside German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas. Blinken said that in Qatar he will "express our deep gratitude for all that they're doing to support the evacuation effort" and meet rescued Afghans as well as US diplomats, who have relocated functions from the shuttered embassy in Kabul to Doha. He will also speak to the Qataris about efforts alongside Turkey to reopen Kabul's ramshackle airport -- a pressing priority that is necessary for flying in badly needed humanitarian aid and evacuating remaining Afghans. The Taliban have promised that they will keep letting Afghans leave if they want to -- one of the key issues that US allies expect to discuss in the talks in Germany. The US says it will monitor the Taliban's follow-up on commitments But US officials said that Blinken does not plan to meet the Taliban, who have also made Doha their diplomatic base from which they negotiated the US pullout with the previous administration of Donald Trump. "On the scope of high-level engagement with the Taliban, I would put that sort of in the recognition category to be considered or to be determined as we see what happens with their efforts to govern," said Dean Thompson, the top US diplomat for South and Central Asia. (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken heads to Qatar amid unfolding Afghan situation

As the deadline of withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan draws near,&nbsp;US President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, has announced that the Taliban will allow a safe passage even after August 31.

"The Taliban have made commitments to us...and we have leverage to hold them to those commitment," Sullivan claimed.

However, he also announced that the US will not have a physical presence in Afghanistan from September, but the US will consider "more strikes, other operations" against the ISIS-K — the terrorist group which attacked the Kabul airport a week ago.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-loud-explosion-heard-in-kabul-as-us-official-admits-military-strike-carried-out-in-same-area-409224">Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul as US official admits military strike carried out in same area</a>

"The US is capable of suppressing the terrorism threat in Afghanistan without a permanent military presence on the ground," Sullivan said.

Sullivan's assurance has come as the&nbsp;US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that only 300 American citizens are left to be evacuated from Afghanistan now.

"We have about 300 American citizens left, who have indicated to us that they want to leave. We are very actively working to help them get to the airport, get on a plane and get out of Afghanistan," he told ABC.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-visits-us-air-base-to-pay-tribute-to-service-personnel-killed-in-kabul-409232">Biden visits US air base to pay tribute to service personnel killed in Kabul</a>

The issue of Taliban providing a safe passage to US citizens after August 31 deadline came as some American citizens have decided to stay back in Afghanistan for now. Assuring that these American citizens "are not going to be stuck in Afghanistan", Blinken assured that the US government has&nbsp;"a mechanism to get them out."

This announcement by the US officials have come as another loud explosion was heard across the Kabul city. After the explosion, smoke was seen rising from the residential area of the Khwaja Bugra area in PD15 — an area that is few kilometres away from the north gate of Kabul airport.

Meanwhile, US President&nbsp;Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden paid respects to the 13 members of the US troops who were killed in the deadly Kabul airport attack that took place last week.&nbsp;

As the deadline of withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan draws near, US President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, has announced that the Taliban will allow a safe passage even after August 31.

As the deadline of withdrawing US troops from Afghanistan draws near, US President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, has announced that the Taliban will allow a safe passage even after August 31. "The Taliban have made commitments to us...and we have leverage to hold them to those commitment," Sullivan claimed. However, he also announced that the US will not have a physical presence in Afghanistan from September, but the US will consider "more strikes, other operations" against the ISIS-K — the terrorist group which attacked the Kabul airport a week ago. Also read | Afghanistan: Loud explosion heard in Kabul as US official admits military strike carried out in same area "The US is capable of suppressing the terrorism threat in Afghanistan without a permanent military presence on the ground," Sullivan said. Sullivan's assurance has come as the US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that only 300 American citizens are left to be evacuated from Afghanistan now. "We have about 300 American citizens left, who have indicated to us that they want to leave. We are very actively working to help them get to the airport, get on a plane and get out of Afghanistan," he told ABC. Also read | Biden visits US air base to pay tribute to service personnel killed in Kabul The issue of Taliban providing a safe passage to US citizens after August 31 deadline came as some American citizens have decided to stay back in Afghanistan for now. Assuring that these American citizens "are not going to be stuck in Afghanistan", Blinken assured that the US government has "a mechanism to get them out." This announcement by the US officials have come as another loud explosion was heard across the Kabul city. After the explosion, smoke was seen rising from the residential area of the Khwaja Bugra area in PD15 — an area that is few kilometres away from the north gate of Kabul airport. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden and his wife Jill Biden paid respects to the 13 members of the US troops who were killed in the deadly Kabul airport attack that took place last week.

Blinken says only 300 Americans left to evacuate; Sullivan assures Taliban to provide safe passage after August 31

The United States has agreed on “bilateral coordination action” to help Lithuania withstand the diplomatic onslaught from China after it allowed Taiwan to establish an embassy under its own name in the Baltic country.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken spoke with Lithuania`s foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis on Saturday, weeks after China threatened to withdraw its ambassador to Vilnius and asked the latter to recall their envoy from Beijing.

“Blinken and Gabrielius Landsbergis agreed that China’s unilateral aggressive actions and political pressure on Lithuania were totally unacceptable,” Reuters quoted a statement from the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry published on Sunday.

However, the statement did not dwell into the specifics of the “bilateral action”.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-asks-lithuanias-envoy-to-leave-beijing-over-taiwan-row-404881">Also read |&nbsp;China asks Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing over Taiwan row</a>

In a separate statement, the US department of state said, “Blinken underscored ironclad US solidarity with our NATO ally and EU partner Lithuania in the face of the People`s Republic of China`s coercive behaviour.”

The row between China and Lithuania erupted last month when Taiwan, which China considers to be a part of its territory under its One Country, Two Systems’ policy, said it was setting up a representative office in Vilnius under the name of ‘Taiwan’ instead of ‘Taipei’ — an act Beijing considers as a diplomatic insult.

Protesting the move, China asked Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing.

However, Lithuania's foreign ministry expressed regret over Beijing's decision.

“While respecting the principle of one China, (Lithuania) is determined to develop mutually beneficial relations with Taiwan,” the ministry said in a statement.

The United States is Taiwan's strongest international backer and main supplier of arms, according to Reuters.

The United States has agreed on “bilateral coordination action” to help Lithuania withstand the diplomatic onslaught from China after it allowed Taiwan to establish an embassy under its own name in the Baltic country.

The United States has agreed on “bilateral coordination action” to help Lithuania withstand the diplomatic onslaught from China after it allowed Taiwan to establish an embassy under its own name in the Baltic country. US secretary of state Antony Blinken spoke with Lithuania`s foreign minister Gabrielius Landsbergis on Saturday, weeks after China threatened to withdraw its ambassador to Vilnius and asked the latter to recall their envoy from Beijing. “Blinken and Gabrielius Landsbergis agreed that China’s unilateral aggressive actions and political pressure on Lithuania were totally unacceptable,” Reuters quoted a statement from the Lithuanian Foreign Ministry published on Sunday. However, the statement did not dwell into the specifics of the “bilateral action”. Also read | China asks Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing over Taiwan row In a separate statement, the US department of state said, “Blinken underscored ironclad US solidarity with our NATO ally and EU partner Lithuania in the face of the People`s Republic of China`s coercive behaviour.” The row between China and Lithuania erupted last month when Taiwan, which China considers to be a part of its territory under its One Country, Two Systems’ policy, said it was setting up a representative office in Vilnius under the name of ‘Taiwan’ instead of ‘Taipei’ — an act Beijing considers as a diplomatic insult. Protesting the move, China asked Lithuania's envoy to leave Beijing. However, Lithuania's foreign ministry expressed regret over Beijing's decision. “While respecting the principle of one China, (Lithuania) is determined to develop mutually beneficial relations with Taiwan,” the ministry said in a statement. The United States is Taiwan's strongest international backer and main supplier of arms, according to Reuters.

US, Lithuania agree on ‘bilateral coordination action’ against China over Taiwan row

The United States will only recognise a future government in Afghanistan if it upholds basic rights of its people and keeps terrorists out of the country, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday. &nbsp;

On being asked to comment over media reports that China was ready to recognise the Taliban as a legitimate government, the top US diplomat said, “A government that doesn’t uphold the basic rights of its people, including women and girls; that harbours terrorist groups that have designs on the United States or allies and partners — certainly, that’s not going to happen.”&nbsp;

He appearing on US television channels on Sunday to comment over the developments in Afghanistan. The secretary of state warned that international assistance to a Taliban-led government in Kabul “will not be forthcoming, sanctions will not be lifted and their ability to travel won’t happen.” &nbsp;

When the interviewer implied that his statement sounds like a no to recognition, the diplomat said, “It’s incumbent on the international community, including the United States, to do everything we can using every tool that we have — economic, diplomatic, political — to ensure (those) rights are sustained.”&nbsp;

Blinken was also reminded by the&nbsp;interviewer&nbsp;that in a recent statement, US President Joe Biden insisted that the Kabul government would not fall, and asked him how he could “get this so wrong.”&nbsp;

The United States will only recognise a future government in Afghanistan if it upholds basic rights of its people and keeps terrorists out of the country, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday.

The United States will only recognise a future government in Afghanistan if it upholds basic rights of its people and keeps terrorists out of the country, said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday. On being asked to comment over media reports that China was ready to recognise the Taliban as a legitimate government, the top US diplomat said, “A government that doesn’t uphold the basic rights of its people, including women and girls; that harbours terrorist groups that have designs on the United States or allies and partners — certainly, that’s not going to happen.” He appearing on US television channels on Sunday to comment over the developments in Afghanistan. The secretary of state warned that international assistance to a Taliban-led government in Kabul “will not be forthcoming, sanctions will not be lifted and their ability to travel won’t happen.” When the interviewer implied that his statement sounds like a no to recognition, the diplomat said, “It’s incumbent on the international community, including the United States, to do everything we can using every tool that we have — economic, diplomatic, political — to ensure (those) rights are sustained.” Blinken was also reminded by the interviewer that in a recent statement, US President Joe Biden insisted that the Kabul government would not fall, and asked him how he could “get this so wrong.”

US to recognise a future Afghan govt only if it upholds basic rights: Blinken 

Top US diplomat in Delhi, Atul Keshap, on Tuesday, met the representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Ngodup Dongchung, in Delhi. During the meeting, US Chargé d’Affaires Atul extended support for the preservation of "Tibetans' unique cultural and linguistic identities".

In a tweet, he said, "Enjoyed meeting with Ngodup Dongchung, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The US supports religious freedom and the preservation of Tibetans' unique cultural and linguistic identities and respects the @DalaiLama’s vision of equal rights for all people.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Enjoyed meeting with Ngodup Dongchung, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The U.S. supports the religious freedom and the preservation of Tibetans' unique cultural and linguistic identities, and respects the <a href="https://twitter.com/DalaiLama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DalaiLama</a>’s vision for the equal rights of all people. <a href="https://t.co/zQoiMGAbLy">pic.twitter.com/zQoiMGAbLy</a>
— CdA Amb Atul Keshap (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/1425087418424778754?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The meeting comes even as the US has increased its engagement with the Tibetan leadership in exile while pointing to increased human rights violations by the Chinese communist party in Tibet and Xinjiang.&nbsp;

"The meeting happened this morning. It was about getting a better understanding of the Tibetan issue, especially with freedom of religious rights and what is happening inside Tibet. For better understanding, " Tenzin Lekshay, Spokesperson for the Tibet Govt in exile, told WION.

The Atul-Ngodup meeting lasted for one hour. The meeting comes days after US Secretary of State Blinken had met him during his one-day Delhi visit. During the visit, Blinken also met members of civil society, which included Geshe Dorjee Damdul, Director of Tibet House, the Cultural Centre of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The picture was tweeted from the US Secretary of State's Twitter handle as well.

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I was pleased to meet civil society leaders today. The U.S. and India share a commitment to democratic values; this is part of the bedrock of our relationship and reflective of India’s pluralistic society and history of harmony. Civil society helps advance these values. <a href="https://t.co/5NL2WiQ13o">pic.twitter.com/5NL2WiQ13o</a>
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1420252756590448640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In an interview with WION later, Dorji expresses concern about the Chinese Communist Party. He said, "communist Chinese (Chinese communist party) CCP is very unpredictable and can not be trusted. What can happen to the world? We never know."

Geshe Dorjee Damdul is considered close to the 14th Dalai Lama &amp; has accompanied him on various visits &amp; acted as his interpreter. In November, the White House invited Lobsang Sangay, the then President of the Tibetan Govt in Exile.

Top US diplomat in Delhi, Atul Keshap, on Tuesday, met the representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Ngodup Dongchung, in Delhi. During the meeting, US Chargé d’Affaires Atul extended support for the preservation of "Tibetans' unique cultural and linguistic identities".

Top US diplomat in Delhi, Atul Keshap, on Tuesday, met the representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Ngodup Dongchung, in Delhi. During the meeting, US Chargé d’Affaires Atul extended support for the preservation of "Tibetans' unique cultural and linguistic identities". In a tweet, he said, "Enjoyed meeting with Ngodup Dongchung, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The US supports religious freedom and the preservation of Tibetans' unique cultural and linguistic identities and respects the @DalaiLama’s vision of equal rights for all people. Enjoyed meeting with Ngodup Dongchung, Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The U.S. supports the religious freedom and the preservation of Tibetans' unique cultural and linguistic identities, and respects the @DalaiLama’s vision for the equal rights of all people. pic.twitter.com/zQoiMGAbLy — CdA Amb Atul Keshap (@USAmbIndia) August 10, 2021 × The meeting comes even as the US has increased its engagement with the Tibetan leadership in exile while pointing to increased human rights violations by the Chinese communist party in Tibet and Xinjiang. "The meeting happened this morning. It was about getting a better understanding of the Tibetan issue, especially with freedom of religious rights and what is happening inside Tibet. For better understanding, " Tenzin Lekshay, Spokesperson for the Tibet Govt in exile, told WION. The Atul-Ngodup meeting lasted for one hour. The meeting comes days after US Secretary of State Blinken had met him during his one-day Delhi visit. During the visit, Blinken also met members of civil society, which included Geshe Dorjee Damdul, Director of Tibet House, the Cultural Centre of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The picture was tweeted from the US Secretary of State's Twitter handle as well. I was pleased to meet civil society leaders today. The U.S. and India share a commitment to democratic values; this is part of the bedrock of our relationship and reflective of India’s pluralistic society and history of harmony. Civil society helps advance these values. pic.twitter.com/5NL2WiQ13o — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) July 28, 2021 × In an interview with WION later, Dorji expresses concern about the Chinese Communist Party. He said, "communist Chinese (Chinese communist party) CCP is very unpredictable and can not be trusted. What can happen to the world? We never know." Geshe Dorjee Damdul is considered close to the 14th Dalai Lama & has accompanied him on various visits & acted as his interpreter. In November, the White House invited Lobsang Sangay, the then President of the Tibetan Govt in Exile.

Top US diplomat in Delhi meets Dalai Lama representative Ngodup, days after Blinken meet

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