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U.S. Department of State Weekly Digest Bulletin Inbox x U.S. Department of State <usstatebpa@public.govdelivery.com> 7:37 AM (2 hours ago) to me Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Kosovo Prime Minister Hoti 09/05/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Kosovo Prime Minister Hoti 09/05/2020 08:06 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus:‎ Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met with Kosovo Prime Minister Avdullah Hoti yesterday in Washington, D.C.  Secretary Pompeo reiterated U.S. support for Kosovo, encouraged continued negotiations with Serbia on a comprehensive normalization agreement centered on mutual recognition, and urged the continued implementation of the air, rail, and road agreements brokered by Special Presidential Envoy Richard Grenell.  Secretary Pompeo encouraged Kosovo to focus on strengthening the rule of law and fighting corruption.  The Secretary and the Prime Minister also discussed Kosovo’s efforts in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and its commitment to advancing economic development and job creation. Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Kosovo Prime Minister Hoti 09/05/2020 You are subscribed to Europe and Eurasia for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Secretary Pompeo’s Meeting with Kosovo Prime Minister Hoti 09/05/2020 08:06 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus:‎ Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met with Kosovo Prime Minister Avdullah Hoti yesterday in Washington, D.C.  Secretary Pompeo reiterated U.S. support for Kosovo, encouraged continued negotiations with Serbia on a comprehensive normalization agreement centered on mutual recognition, and urged the continued implementation of the air, rail, and road agreements brokered by Special Presidential Envoy Richard Grenell.  Secretary Pompeo encouraged Kosovo to focus on strengthening the rule of law and fighting corruption.  The Secretary and the Prime Minister also discussed Kosovo’s efforts in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and its commitment to advancing economic development and job creation. On the Overdue Release of Cuban Journalist, Roberto Quiñones 09/06/2020 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. On the Overdue Release of Cuban Journalist, Roberto Quiñones 09/06/2020 09:10 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The U.S. Government is gratified to see independent journalist Roberto de Jesús Quiñones reunited with his family after a year of undue suffering as a prisoner of conscience in Cuba.  However, we repeat our strong condemnation of his unjust imprisonment for the simple act of doing his job. On August 7, 2019, the Cuban regime convicted Quiñones on dubious charges of resistance and disobedience and sentenced him to one year in a labor camp.  His detention and trial were marked by the flagrant disregard for legal norms, which is typical of the Cuban regime.  Cuban authorities did not inform Quiñones of the charges against him until minutes before the trial, and did not permit him legal representation in the courtroom.  The regime’s prosecutors did not permit Quiñones to present evidence of his injuries at the hands of the police who arrested him.  In March, he was denied parole. It is disgraceful that the Cuban regime incarcerated a journalist whose only “crime” is working for a more transparent society.  It is also unsurprising.  The regime uses any excuse to silence its critics and to violate human rights, including the rights to freedom of expression and to fair trial guarantees. We call on our democratic partners across the globe to make respect for human rights a prerequisite for any dealings with Cuba. On the Overdue Release of Cuban Journalist, Roberto Quiñones 09/06/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. On the Overdue Release of Cuban Journalist, Roberto Quiñones 09/06/2020 09:10 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The U.S. Government is gratified to see independent journalist Roberto de Jesús Quiñones reunited with his family after a year of undue suffering as a prisoner of conscience in Cuba.  However, we repeat our strong condemnation of his unjust imprisonment for the simple act of doing his job. On August 7, 2019, the Cuban regime convicted Quiñones on dubious charges of resistance and disobedience and sentenced him to one year in a labor camp.  His detention and trial were marked by the flagrant disregard for legal norms, which is typical of the Cuban regime.  Cuban authorities did not inform Quiñones of the charges against him until minutes before the trial, and did not permit him legal representation in the courtroom.  The regime’s prosecutors did not permit Quiñones to present evidence of his injuries at the hands of the police who arrested him.  In March, he was denied parole. It is disgraceful that the Cuban regime incarcerated a journalist whose only “crime” is working for a more transparent society.  It is also unsurprising.  The regime uses any excuse to silence its critics and to violate human rights, including the rights to freedom of expression and to fair trial guarantees. We call on our democratic partners across the globe to make respect for human rights a prerequisite for any dealings with Cuba. Eswatini Independence Day 09/06/2020 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Eswatini Independence Day 09/06/2020 09:20 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On behalf of the government of the United States and the American people, it is my pleasure to congratulate the people of the Kingdom of Eswatini on the 52nd anniversary of your nation’s independence. As you celebrate the rich traditions of your country and the resilience of your people, I reaffirm the commitment of the United States to stand together with Eswatini as you combat the COVID-19 pandemic.  We will also continue to support our broader shared goals of development, good governance, and economic prosperity.  We remain your partner as you build a healthier and more prosperous Eswatini. As you commemorate your Independence Day, I offer my best wishes to all citizens of Eswatini as we face the year ahead. Eswatini Independence Day 09/06/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Eswatini Independence Day 09/06/2020 09:20 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On behalf of the government of the United States and the American people, it is my pleasure to congratulate the people of the Kingdom of Eswatini on the 52nd anniversary of your nation’s independence. As you celebrate the rich traditions of your country and the resilience of your people, I reaffirm the commitment of the United States to stand together with Eswatini as you combat the COVID-19 pandemic.  We will also continue to support our broader shared goals of development, good governance, and economic prosperity.  We remain your partner as you build a healthier and more prosperous Eswatini. As you commemorate your Independence Day, I offer my best wishes to all citizens of Eswatini as we face the year ahead. Announcing the Indo-Pacific Business Forum 2020 09/06/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Announcing the Indo-Pacific Business Forum 2020 09/06/2020 08:18 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The United States Government, in partnership with the Government of Vietnam, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council, is sponsoring the third annual Indo-Pacific Business Forum in Hanoi, Vietnam on October 28-29. Participants attending from the United States will join the virtual conference on October 27-28. The Forum advances a vision for the Indo-Pacific as a free and open region composed of nations that are independent, strong, and prosperous. Government and business leaders from the United States, Vietnam, and across the Indo-Pacific will discuss energy and infrastructure, the digital economy, market connectivity, health and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and U.S.-Indo-Pacific partnerships and commercial opportunities. The Forum will showcase high-impact private sector investment and government efforts to support market competition, job growth, and high-standard development for greater prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. The Forum will be conducted via a secure online conferencing platform, and there will be optional in-person participation in some events for attendees in Hanoi. Journalists are invited to register to cover the event at https://www.indopacificbusinessforum.com/media. For further information, please visit the Indo-Pacific Business Forum website at: https://www.indopacificbusinessforum.com. Public Schedule – September 7, 2020 09/07/2020 You are subscribed to Public Schedule for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Public Schedule – September 7, 2020 09/07/2020 08:28 AM EDT Office of the Spokesperson  *THE DAILY PUBLIC SCHEDULE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE* The Department of State is closed in observance of Labor Day. SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO Secretary Pompeo has no public appointments. Brazil’s Independence Day 09/07/2020 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Brazil’s Independence Day 09/07/2020 12:01 PM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I congratulate the people of the Federative Republic of Brazil on the 198th anniversary of your independence. The ties between the United States and Brazil have never been stronger.  As the two largest democracies and economies in the Americas, our growing friendship is built on a foundation of shared democratic values.  This year, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we greatly expanded our cooperation in promoting the bilateral trade and investment that helps our societies flourish.  We worked together to lead the hemisphere in promoting human rights and democracy.  Our partnership is deep and expansive with ongoing collaboration on security and defense as well as aerospace, science, technology, environment, health, and innovation. Brazil’s continued support for the people of Venezuela, especially the more than 264,000 who have been welcomed by the Brazilian people, is a model for the region and a testament to the values we share.  President Bolsonaro’s visits to the United States have reaffirmed our strategic alliance, including collaboration in military research and signing an América Cresce Memorandum of Understanding to catalyze private sector investment in infrastructure and stimulate economic development in the hemisphere. As the people of Brazil celebrate, the United States wishes all Brazilians a wonderful 198th Independence Day.     Brazil’s Independence Day 09/07/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Brazil’s Independence Day 09/07/2020 12:01 PM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I congratulate the people of the Federative Republic of Brazil on the 198th anniversary of your independence. The ties between the United States and Brazil have never been stronger.  As the two largest democracies and economies in the Americas, our growing friendship is built on a foundation of shared democratic values.  This year, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, we greatly expanded our cooperation in promoting the bilateral trade and investment that helps our societies flourish.  We worked together to lead the hemisphere in promoting human rights and democracy.  Our partnership is deep and expansive with ongoing collaboration on security and defense as well as aerospace, science, technology, environment, health, and innovation. Brazil’s continued support for the people of Venezuela, especially the more than 264,000 who have been welcomed by the Brazilian people, is a model for the region and a testament to the values we share.  President Bolsonaro’s visits to the United States have reaffirmed our strategic alliance, including collaboration in military research and signing an América Cresce Memorandum of Understanding to catalyze private sector investment in infrastructure and stimulate economic development in the hemisphere. As the people of Brazil celebrate, the United States wishes all Brazilians a wonderful 198th Independence Day.     North Macedonia National Day 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Europe and Eurasia for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. North Macedonia National Day 09/08/2020 12:01 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State As North Macedonia celebrates its independence, I extend greetings and best wishes on behalf of the United States Government and the American people. This year we congratulate North Macedonia on becoming the 30th member of NATO, and we applaud your country’s commitment to regional and global peace and security that is reflected in this tremendous achievement.  We are encouraged by the progress you made on the path towards EU membership and will continue to support your efforts to achieve European integration.  North Macedonia’s recent parliamentary elections were peaceful and successful in unprecedented circumstances and we commend your pursuit of democratic ideals, transparency, and strengthened rule of law.  Your accomplishments will help shape the future direction of the Western Balkans region. As you celebrate, I wish safety and health to all the people of North Macedonia as we work together to overcome the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The United States stands by North Macedonia as a steadfast Ally. North Macedonia National Day 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. North Macedonia National Day 09/08/2020 12:01 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State As North Macedonia celebrates its independence, I extend greetings and best wishes on behalf of the United States Government and the American people. This year we congratulate North Macedonia on becoming the 30th member of NATO, and we applaud your country’s commitment to regional and global peace and security that is reflected in this tremendous achievement.  We are encouraged by the progress you made on the path towards EU membership and will continue to support your efforts to achieve European integration.  North Macedonia’s recent parliamentary elections were peaceful and successful in unprecedented circumstances and we commend your pursuit of democratic ideals, transparency, and strengthened rule of law.  Your accomplishments will help shape the future direction of the Western Balkans region. As you celebrate, I wish safety and health to all the people of North Macedonia as we work together to overcome the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The United States stands by North Macedonia as a steadfast Ally. North Macedonia National Day 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. North Macedonia National Day 09/08/2020 12:01 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State As North Macedonia celebrates its independence, I extend greetings and best wishes on behalf of the United States Government and the American people. This year we congratulate North Macedonia on becoming the 30th member of NATO, and we applaud your country’s commitment to regional and global peace and security that is reflected in this tremendous achievement.  We are encouraged by the progress you made on the path towards EU membership and will continue to support your efforts to achieve European integration.  North Macedonia’s recent parliamentary elections were peaceful and successful in unprecedented circumstances and we commend your pursuit of democratic ideals, transparency, and strengthened rule of law.  Your accomplishments will help shape the future direction of the Western Balkans region. As you celebrate, I wish safety and health to all the people of North Macedonia as we work together to overcome the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The United States stands by North Macedonia as a steadfast Ally. Andorra National Day 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Andorra National Day 09/08/2020 08:46 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The strength of our friendship is based on the shared values that bind our two peoples, including a commitment to the principles of democracy and human rights.  As we also celebrate the 25th anniversary of our bilateral relationship this year, we look forward to deepening our friendship with Andorra by continuing to work together to promote these values around the world. Public Schedule – September 8, 2020 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Public Schedule for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Public Schedule – September 8, 2020 09/08/2020 08:40 AM EDT Office of the Spokesperson ***THE DAILY PUBLIC SCHEDULE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE*** SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO Secretary Pompeo attends meetings and briefings, at the Department of State. DEPUTY SECRETARY STEPHEN E. BIEGUN  Deputy Secretary Biegun attends meetings and briefings, at the Department of State. UNDER SECRETARY FOR POLITICAL AFFAIRS DAVID HALE  Under Secretary Hale attends meetings and briefings, at the Department of State. UNDER SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH, ENERGY, AND THE ENVIRONMENT KEITH KRACH Under Secretary Krach attends meetings and briefings, at the Department of State. Tajikistan Independence Day 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Tajikistan Independence Day 09/08/2020 08:53 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America and the American people, I congratulate the people of Tajikistan on 29 years of independence. We have built a strong partnership over nearly three decades, which has advanced our shared goal of a secure and sovereign Tajikistan.  In the coming years, we look forward to continued collaboration, including through the C5+1 format, that increases global trade and investment, reinforces regional security, and heightens the effectiveness of democratic institutions, rule of law, and respect for human rights. The United States remains invested in the future stability and prosperity of Tajikistan and its people, and we look forward to enhancing our partnership in the years ahead.   Tajikistan Independence Day 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Tajikistan Independence Day 09/08/2020 08:53 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America and the American people, I congratulate the people of Tajikistan on 29 years of independence. We have built a strong partnership over nearly three decades, which has advanced our shared goal of a secure and sovereign Tajikistan.  In the coming years, we look forward to continued collaboration, including through the C5+1 format, that increases global trade and investment, reinforces regional security, and heightens the effectiveness of democratic institutions, rule of law, and respect for human rights. The United States remains invested in the future stability and prosperity of Tajikistan and its people, and we look forward to enhancing our partnership in the years ahead.   Andorra National Day 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Andorra National Day 09/08/2020 08:46 AM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The strength of our friendship is based on the shared values that bind our two peoples, including a commitment to the principles of democracy and human rights.  As we also celebrate the 25th anniversary of our bilateral relationship this year, we look forward to deepening our friendship with Andorra by continuing to work together to promote these values around the world. The United States Designates Former Lebanese Government Ministers 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. The United States Designates Former Lebanese Government Ministers 09/08/2020 02:04 PM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State For too long, Lebanon’s political leaders have ignored their responsibility to address the needs of their people and instead built a political system that serves their private interests.  The August 4 explosion at the Beirut port is the most recent and tragic demonstration of Lebanon’s dysfunctional political system, which has also enabled a terrorist group to hold the country’s governance hostage to its own agenda.  The United States supports the Lebanese people’s call for reform, and we will use all available authorities to promote accountability for Lebanese leaders who have failed their people. Today, the United States is designating two former Lebanese ministers, Yusuf Finyanus and Ali Hassan Khalil, pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13224 as amended for providing material support to Hizballah, a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization and Specially Designated Global Terrorist.  While holding positions in previous Lebanese cabinets, Finyanus and Khalil directed political and economic favors to Hizballah, including ensuring Hizballah-owned companies won government contracts worth millions of dollars and moving money from government ministries to Hizballah-associated institutions. Today’s designations demonstrate that Lebanese politicians who have provided a false veneer of political legitimacy to Hizballah or abused their positions to direct public funds to the terrorist group are as responsible for its entrenched influence as Hizballah’s own members or the corrupt businessmen and money launderers that have helped fund the group for decades. Hizballah depends on Lebanon’s corrupt political system for survival.  Anyone helping to advance Hizballah’s political or economic interests is further eroding what remains of effective governance and facilitating financing for terrorism.  The Lebanese people deserve better, and the United States will continue to support their calls for an end to corruption and political stagnation.   The United States Designates Former Lebanese Government Ministers 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. The United States Designates Former Lebanese Government Ministers 09/08/2020 02:04 PM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State For too long, Lebanon’s political leaders have ignored their responsibility to address the needs of their people and instead built a political system that serves their private interests.  The August 4 explosion at the Beirut port is the most recent and tragic demonstration of Lebanon’s dysfunctional political system, which has also enabled a terrorist group to hold the country’s governance hostage to its own agenda.  The United States supports the Lebanese people’s call for reform, and we will use all available authorities to promote accountability for Lebanese leaders who have failed their people. Today, the United States is designating two former Lebanese ministers, Yusuf Finyanus and Ali Hassan Khalil, pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13224 as amended for providing material support to Hizballah, a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization and Specially Designated Global Terrorist.  While holding positions in previous Lebanese cabinets, Finyanus and Khalil directed political and economic favors to Hizballah, including ensuring Hizballah-owned companies won government contracts worth millions of dollars and moving money from government ministries to Hizballah-associated institutions. Today’s designations demonstrate that Lebanese politicians who have provided a false veneer of political legitimacy to Hizballah or abused their positions to direct public funds to the terrorist group are as responsible for its entrenched influence as Hizballah’s own members or the corrupt businessmen and money launderers that have helped fund the group for decades. Hizballah depends on Lebanon’s corrupt political system for survival.  Anyone helping to advance Hizballah’s political or economic interests is further eroding what remains of effective governance and facilitating financing for terrorism.  The Lebanese people deserve better, and the United States will continue to support their calls for an end to corruption and political stagnation.   G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Poisoning of Alexei Navalny 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Poisoning of Alexei Navalny 09/08/2020 03:44 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The text of the following statement was released by the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union. Begin text: We, the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, are united in condemning, in the strongest possible terms, the confirmed poisoning of Alexei Navalny. Germany has briefed G7 partners on the fact that clinical and toxicological findings by German medical experts and a specialized laboratory of the German armed forces have determined that Mr. Navalny is the victim of an attack with a chemical nerve-agent of the “Novichok” group, a substance developed by Russia. Mr. Navalny is in intensive care in a Berlin hospital and remains in a serious condition. Our heartfelt thoughts are with his family, and we hope for his full and speedy recovery. Any use of chemical weapons, anywhere, anytime, by anybody, under any circumstances whatsoever, is unacceptable and contravenes the international norms prohibiting the use of such weapons.  We, the G7 foreign ministers, call on Russia to urgently and fully establish transparency on who is responsible for this abhorrent poisoning attack and, bearing in mind Russia’s commitments under the Chemical Weapons Convention, to bring the perpetrators to justice. This attack against opposition leader Navalny is another grave blow against democracy and political plurality in Russia. It constitutes a serious threat to those men and women engaged in defending the political and civil freedoms that Russia herself has committed to guarantee. We call on Russia to fulfill its commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and to guarantee these rights, including the right to freedom of expression, to its citizens. We will continue to monitor closely how Russia responds to international calls for an explanation of the hideous poisoning of Mr. Navalny. We remain strongly committed to our support for democracy, the rule of law and human rights in Russia and to bolster our support to the Russian civil society. End text.   Japan-U.S. Joint Ministerial Statement on Japan-U.S.-Mekong Power Partnership (JUMPP) 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Japan-U.S. Joint Ministerial Statement on Japan-U.S.-Mekong Power Partnership (JUMPP) 09/08/2020 04:41 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the Government of Japan on the occasion of the one-year anniversary of the Japan-U.S.-Mekong Power Partnership (JUMPP). Begin Text:  The Governments of the United States of America and Japan, on the occasion of the one-year anniversary of the Japan-U.S.-Mekong Power Partnership (JUMPP); Underscoring our shared objective of sustainable and inclusive economic growth and prosperity through promoting, inter alia, fair and reciprocal energy trade and access to affordable, reliable, and secure energy; Sharing the firm belief that energy sector resilience is critical to economic growth, political stability, and that universal access to modern energy services is a prerequisite for social and economic development; Reaffirming the strong potential in energy production and the value of transparency; free and fair competition; diversification of energy sources, suppliers and routes; the sovereign right of states to partner economically with countries and entities of their choosing in developing their energy resources; and the unfettered flow of energy supplies in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Mekong sub-region, which is vital to regional stability, prosperity, and development; Renewing our pledge to advance partnerships that promote a more sustainable energy sector and quality energy infrastructure development that meets the needs of people in the Mekong sub-region, in accordance with the international standards of quality infrastructure investment such as those mentioned in the “G20 Principles for Quality Infrastructure Investment,” including openness, transparency, economic efficiency and debt stability; Acknowledging electricity demand in Mekong partner countries is projected to increase by 6 to 7 percent per year and the urgent need to meet this rising demand with secure, accessible, affordable, and reliable electricity and high-quality, sustainable power sector investment; Recognizing that governments in the Mekong sub-region are seeking to increase their use of diverse and variable renewable energy resources, which present opportunities and challenges for modernizing policy and regulatory frameworks, increasing electricity trade, and improving power system operations; Recognizing that increased power trade and, in the long term, an integrated electricity market will better prepare the Mekong sub-region to meet demand growth, maximize use of existing power infrastructure, and optimize each country’s potential while encouraging renewable energy resource development and the power sector reforms necessary to attract private sector investment; Reflecting upon the development trajectory of the Mekong sub-region’s power sector, the need for sustainable utility-scale hydropower installations, the connectedness of water and energy security in the Mekong sub-region, and the urgent need for regional coordination to advance diversified, resilient, and sustainable power systems moving forward; Acknowledging that a global energy transition is underway, increasing in pace and complexity, and expanding the deployment of new, advanced energy technologies posing challenges to traditional models of energy governance, electrical grid architecture, and market structures; Promoting enhanced bilateral and regional power trade for energy security and economic integration, and cognizant that regional electricity trade mutually benefits electricity importers and exporters through market integration, the expansion of market size and increasing access to affordable, sustainable, and modern power, and enhancing energy connectivity; Affirming the important role of the Japan-U.S.-Mekong Power Partnership (JUMPP) toward achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular Goal 7: “Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy;” and acknowledging JUMPP’s important and initial contributions during its inaugural year, including projects listed in the annex; Recognizing JUMPP forms part of the enduring economic and energy cooperation partnership between our countries, and welcoming the expanded partnerships the United States and Japanese governments have established with the Mekong partner countries to build stronger, more competitive, and more interconnected electricity markets and infrastructure; Noting ongoing cooperation under the Mekong-U.S. Partnership, Mekong-Japan cooperation, and the ASEAN-U.S. Strategic Partnership; and the implementation of regional initiatives such as the Asia Enhancing Development and Growth through Energy (Asia EDGE) and the Japan-U.S. Strategic Energy Partnership (JUSEP); Recalling the stated objectives of the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS) and its Master Plan (2019-2023), the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025, and the “Tokyo Strategy 2018” adopted at the 10th Mekong-Japan Summit, and recognizing the importance of aligning our cooperation on energy under JUMPP with those strategies and plans; Hereby: Decide to broaden and deepen our cooperation to promote regional energy integration and market development through maintenance and expansion of flexible, transparent, and competitive markets for energy commodities and technologies; Identify opportunities for JUMPP to accelerate Mekong sub-regional infrastructure connectivity as a shared objective to expand energy access, better harness the Mekong sub-region’s natural resources, mobilize private investment, improve energy services, and to better respond to energy shocks and disruptions; Decide to expand capacity-building and technical assistance, including on-the-job training, amongst JUMPP partners to improve institutional and regulatory frameworks, strengthen energy sector governance, help unlock private investment in Mekong partner countries’ power sectors, and grow cross-border energy trade; Support advancement of key enablers of electricity market integration, including cross border power trade for more efficient power and to optimize the use of energy resources in the region; development of a functional regional grid code; improvement of efficiency and utilization rates for existing transmission capacity to expand cross-border power trade; development of regional legal and regulatory roadmaps to facilitate regional trade expansion; promotion of bankable, standardized power purchase agreements to drive private investment; promotion of bankable projects; enhanced deployment of wind, solar, natural gas, and advanced power generation technologies to diversify the region’s electricity mix; and progress on competitive market reforms and institutions; Promote a nexus approach to water-food-energy security to ensure that the construction and operation of energy projects in the region will reduce, mitigate, or eliminate negative impacts on the environment and affected communities in the development of the Mekong river basin; Intend to strive for enhanced coordination amongst ASEAN Member States, Heads of ASEAN Power Utilities and Authorities, Asian Development Bank, World Bank, United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, International Energy Agency, and other partners that support regional electricity integration and promote the international standards of quality infrastructure investment mentioned in the newly endorsed “G20 Principles for Quality Infrastructure Investment;” Decide to formulate a JUMPP action plan within one year and to hold an annual meeting of JUMPP diplomatic representatives and technical experts on the margins of the annual Mekong-U.S. Partnership and Friends of the Lower Mekong Senior Officials Meetings to establish time-bound objectives and benchmarks, review progress, address barriers to integration, and to facilitate intercessional communications amongst JUMPP partners. Annex: List of projects supported by JUMPP in 2019-2020 a)  Supporting Thailand’s electric utility, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), in establishing an energy-trading company that would improve utilization of existing electricity generation assets while facilitating expansion of cross-border electricity flows by enabling domestic and regional power exchange; b)  Supporting EGAT preparations for third-party access to the national transmission network, which would allow independent and small power producers to sell excess renewable power– a key enabler for expanded regional power trade; c)  Advising EGAT on available technologies for grid modernization and digitalization to facilitate increased use of variable renewable energy; d)  Supporting Thailand’s Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to open the domestic gas market and build a competitive regulatory framework to attract private investment; e)  Supporting Thailand’s ERC on creating regulatory incentives and tools to facilitate distributed energy resources, as well as enhance sector transparency through the implementation of the U.S. Uniform System of Accounting; f)  Advising Vietnam’s regulator on ongoing wholesale and retail electricity competitive market development progress, as well as development of an ancillary services market to provide additional economic value and system stability and competitiveness to Vietnam’s electricity market; g)  Helping Vietnamese Electricity (EVN) and power system and market operator NLDC reliably integrate over 4,500 MW of new solar generation, and build technical capacity to better integrate high levels of wind and solar power penetration in the upcoming time, including advisory support on whether to establish a Renewable Energy Control Center; h)  Attracting investment in renewable energy projects to meet ASEAN objectives for regional renewable energy targets and to proliferate viable commercial models for deployment of clean energy; i)  Building regional capacity for all Mekong partner countries by bringing energy ministries, regulators, and electric utilities together to train with U.S. experts on cross-border electricity trade, renewable energy integration, and the benefits of transparent, competitive procurement; j)  Engaging with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Public Private Partnership team to jointly identify potential projects for JICA’s Private Sector Investment Finance (PSIF), which builds upon on Japan’s “Initiative on Overseas Loan and Investment for ASEAN”, announced by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in November 2019, aimed at expanding and greening infrastructure investments in the region; k)  Employing Japan’s Initiative on Overseas Loan and Investment for ASEAN to build and operate a combined cycle gas turbine power plant in the Rojana Rayong 2 Industrial Park of Thailand and a solar power plant in Tây Ninh Province in Vietnam; l)  Sharing regional best practices to showcase state-of-the-art management of distributed energy resources (DER) and cross-border power trade through the Clean Power Asia program, a USAID-JICA partnership to highlight best practices to a regional audience, most recently through the ADB virtual event “Asia Clean Energy Forum 2020;” m)  Delivery of JICA’s Power Network System Master Plan for Lao PDR; n)  USAID and JICA’s partnership to develop an Integrated Resource and Resilience Plan for Lao PDR; o)  Supporting power quality improvements through grid code enforcement and the use of JICA advisory teams dispatched to the Lao PDR Ministry of Energy and Mining (MEM); and p)  Supporting the Power Sector Development in Myanmar through the partnership with JICA for Technical Cooperation Programs and funding the Projects with Grants and ODA Loans. End text Abduction of Opposition Leaders in Belarus 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Abduction of Opposition Leaders in Belarus 09/08/2020 07:13 PM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The United States is deeply concerned by the reported abduction September 7 in Belarus of Coordination Council member Mariya Kalesnikava, Spokesman Anton Rodnenkou, and Executive Secretary Ivan Krautsou, and the attempted forced expulsion over the border to Ukraine September 8. We commend the courage of Ms. Kalesnikava and of the Belarusian people in peacefully asserting their right to pick their leaders in free and fair elections in the face of unjustified violence and repression by the Belarusian authorities, which included brazen beatings of peaceful marchers in broad daylight and hundreds of detentions September 6, as well as increasing reports of abductions. The United States, in coordination with our partners and Allies, is considering additional targeted sanctions to promote accountability for those involved in human rights abuses and repression in Belarus. We remind the Belarusian authorities of their responsibility to ensure the safety of Ms. Kalesnikava and all those unjustly detained. We call on the Belarusian authorities to end the violence against their own people, release all those who have been unjustly detained, including U.S. citizen Vitali Shkliarov, and engage in meaningful dialogue with genuine representatives of Belarusian society. Abduction of Opposition Leaders in Belarus 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Europe and Eurasia for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Abduction of Opposition Leaders in Belarus 09/08/2020 07:13 PM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The United States is deeply concerned by the reported abduction September 7 in Belarus of Coordination Council member Mariya Kalesnikava, Spokesman Anton Rodnenkou, and Executive Secretary Ivan Krautsou, and the attempted forced expulsion over the border to Ukraine September 8. We commend the courage of Ms. Kalesnikava and of the Belarusian people in peacefully asserting their right to pick their leaders in free and fair elections in the face of unjustified violence and repression by the Belarusian authorities, which included brazen beatings of peaceful marchers in broad daylight and hundreds of detentions September 6, as well as increasing reports of abductions. The United States, in coordination with our partners and Allies, is considering additional targeted sanctions to promote accountability for those involved in human rights abuses and repression in Belarus. We remind the Belarusian authorities of their responsibility to ensure the safety of Ms. Kalesnikava and all those unjustly detained. We call on the Belarusian authorities to end the violence against their own people, release all those who have been unjustly detained, including U.S. citizen Vitali Shkliarov, and engage in meaningful dialogue with genuine representatives of Belarusian society. Abduction of Opposition Leaders in Belarus 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Abduction of Opposition Leaders in Belarus 09/08/2020 07:13 PM EDT Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State The United States is deeply concerned by the reported abduction September 7 in Belarus of Coordination Council member Mariya Kalesnikava, Spokesman Anton Rodnenkou, and Executive Secretary Ivan Krautsou, and the attempted forced expulsion over the border to Ukraine September 8. We commend the courage of Ms. Kalesnikava and of the Belarusian people in peacefully asserting their right to pick their leaders in free and fair elections in the face of unjustified violence and repression by the Belarusian authorities, which included brazen beatings of peaceful marchers in broad daylight and hundreds of detentions September 6, as well as increasing reports of abductions. The United States, in coordination with our partners and Allies, is considering additional targeted sanctions to promote accountability for those involved in human rights abuses and repression in Belarus. We remind the Belarusian authorities of their responsibility to ensure the safety of Ms. Kalesnikava and all those unjustly detained. We call on the Belarusian authorities to end the violence against their own people, release all those who have been unjustly detained, including U.S. citizen Vitali Shkliarov, and engage in meaningful dialogue with genuine representatives of Belarusian society. Public Schedule – September 9, 2020 09/08/2020 You are subscribed to Public Schedule for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Public Schedule – September 9, 2020 09/08/2020 08:30 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson ***THE DAILY PUBLIC SCHEDULE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE*** SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO 7:15 a.m.  Secretary Pompeo participates in the Virtual East Asia Summit Ministerial, from the Department of State. (CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE) 10:30 a.m.  Secretary Pompeo delivers remarks virtually to the Committee to Unleash Prosperity, from the Department of State. (CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE) 1:00 p.m.  Secretary Pompeo holds a Town Hall Meeting on the Report of the Commission on Unalienable Rights, at the Department of State. (CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE) 9:00 p.m.  Secretary Pompeo participates in the Virtual U.S.-ASEAN Ministerial, from the Department of State. (CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE) DEPUTY SECRETARY STEPHEN E. BIEGUN  Deputy Secretary Biegun attends meetings and briefings, at the Department of State. USAID ACTING ADMINISTRATOR JOHN BARSA 2:00 p.m.  Acting Administrator Barsa participates in a virtual International Development Finance Corporation Board Meeting, from the U.S. Agency for International Development. (CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE) UNDER SECRETARY FOR POLITICAL AFFAIRS DAVID HALE  Under Secretary Hale attends meetings and briefings, at the Department of State. UNDER SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH, ENERGY, AND THE ENVIRONMENT KEITH KRACH 3:00 ... [Message clipped]  View entire message ReplyForward