Appointment of Ambassador Richard Norland as U.S. Special Envoy for Libya

The Department of State is pleased to announce that U.S. Ambassador to Libya Richard Norland will now also serve in the capacity of U.S. Special Envoy for Libya in addition to Chief of Mission for Libya. In his role as U.S. Special Envoy, Ambassador Norland will lead U.S. diplomatic efforts to promote international support for a Libyan-led, inclusive, and negotiated political solution to the conflict, facilitated through the UN.

Readout from NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s Meeting with Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Ayman Safadi

The U.S. and Jordanian officials discussed their serious concerns with the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Syria and pledged to work together closely to mitigate suffering.

Statement by President Biden on FDA’s Expanded Emergency Use Authorization of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine to Include Adolescents

After a rigorous and thorough scientific review process, today the Food and Drug Administration expanded the emergency use authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine from individuals 16 years and older to also include individuals 12 to 15 years old.

Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry Travels to Europe

In Rome, Special Presidential Envoy Kerry will meet with Italian and Vatican officials. In London, he will meet with representatives of the UK Government, who will host COP26 this November in Glasgow. In Berlin, Special Presidential Envoy Kerry will meet with German officials.

Secretary Blinken’s Call with Palestinian Authority President Abbas

The Secretary and the President discussed the violence in Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza, and the Secretary expressed his condolences for the lives lost as a result.