In a year-end press conference, Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted four of the most consequential areas of diplomatic success in 2022.
First, he noted, the United States "rallied the world to ensure that Russia’s war on Ukraine is a strategic failure."
"Since February 24th, we’ve brought together dozens of allies and partners to promote security, economic and humanitarian support to the Ukrainian people as they stand up for their country’s democracy, its sovereignty, and its independence," said Secretary Blinken. "Our collective support – including now an additional $1.85 billion in U.S. military assistance. . .has enabled Ukraine’s fighters to go on the counter-offensive, liberating their people, retaking more of their territory."
Secondly, "we accelerated strategic convergence with our allies and partners on the People’s Republic of China," said Secretary Blinken. "Back in May, I set out our strategy to meet the challenge posed by the PRC: invest in the foundations of our strength at home; align with our partners and allies; compete with China so that we can defend our interests and realize our vision for the future."
Furthermore, the United States and its allies remain united in their commitment to preserve peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and continue to raise concerns and take joint action in response to the PRC’s human rights abuses in Xinjiang and Tibet, and the erosion of freedom of speech and the press in Hong Kong.
Third, the United States has mobilized coalitions to deliver solutions to food security, health, energy and climate, and inclusive economic growth.
Finally, "we used the power of American diplomacy to advance peace and prevent and mitigate conflict," said Secretary Blinken.
"Together with my counterparts from Israel, Morocco, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt, I took part in the historic Negev Summit to advance integration and normalization in the Middle East. We brokered a historic agreement between Israel and Lebanon to resolve their long-standing maritime boundary dispute. We supported African-led talks that led to the cessation of hostilities between Ethiopia and Tigrayan forces. We helped bring about a framework agreement to put Sudan back on the path toward civilian-led democracy. We helped secure – and later extend – a truce in the Yemen conflict."
Looking ahead to 2023, said Secretary Blinken, the United States and its partners will continue to work together to build a world that’s free, open, secure, and prosperous.
