SECRETARY OF STATE KERRY CONGRATULATES HONDURAN PRESIDENT HERNANDEZ ON HIS ELECTION

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 
Honduras Elections
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
December 12, 2013

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I extend my warm congratulations to Juan Orlando Hernandez on his election as President of the Republic of Honduras.

The Honduran people turned out in record numbers to vote on November 24, and we commend the Honduran Government for ensuring that the election process was generally transparent, peaceful, and reflected the will of the Honduran people.

Honduras’ newly elected leaders have committed to address the country’s most pressing challenges, including promoting fiscal stability and economic growth, combating poverty, and guaranteeing security, justice, and human rights for all Hondurans.

The United States will continue its support for these efforts and looks forward to deepening our cooperation throughout the region.

VA SAYS VETERANS' HOMELESSNESS DECREASED 24% SINCE 2010

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS 
VA and HUD Announce Twenty-Four Percent Reduction in Veterans’ Homelessness since 2010

WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Housing and Urban Development announced that a new national report shows a 24 percent reduction in homelessness among Veterans since 2010.

The report also showed an 8 percent reduction between January 2012 and January 2013. The decline keeps the Obama administration on track to meet the goal of ending Veterans’ homelessness in 2015.

“We are on the right track in the fight to end homelessness among Veterans.  While this trend is encouraging news, we know that there is more work to do,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “As President Obama said, we’re not going to rest until every Veteran who has fought for America has a home in America.  The results in the latest report are a credit to the effort given by our dedicated staff, and our federal, state, and community partners who are committed to ending Veterans’ homelessness.”

“We’re making real and significant progress to reduce homelessness in this country and now is not the time to retreat from doing what we know works,” said U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan.  “If we’re going to end homelessness as we know it, we need a continued bipartisan commitment from Congress to break the cycle trapping our most vulnerable citizens, especially our Veterans, between living in a shelter or a life on the streets.  I understand these are tough budget times but these are proven strategies that are making a real difference.  We simply can’t balance our budget on the backs of those living on the margins.”

The 2013 Point-in-Time Estimates of Homelessness, prepared by HUD, estimates there were 57,849 homeless Veterans on a single night in January in the United States, an 8 percent decline since 2012 and a 24 percent decline since 2010.
VA has made ending Veterans’ homelessness by the end of 2015 a top priority, undertaking an unprecedented campaign to dramatically increase awareness of VA services for homeless Veterans and Veterans at risk of becoming homeless.  While the number of homeless people in the United States dropped by 4 percent since 2012, according to the 2013 report, Veterans’ homelessness has shown a more robust decline.  During a period of prolonged economic recovery, the Obama Administration has been able to reduce the number of homeless Veterans by 24 percent, breaking previous patterns of increased homelessness during difficult economies.

Earlier this year, HUD and VA also announced the award of nearly $70 million of HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing grants to further assist in addressing the issue of Veterans’ homelessness.  The program combines rental assistance from HUD with case management and clinical services provided by VA.  Since 2008, a total of 58,140 vouchers have been awarded and 43,371 formerly homeless Veterans are currently in homes of their own because of the joint HUD-VA program.

One of the tools VA uses in its systematic approach to prevent and end Veterans’ homelessness is the Supportive Services for Veteran Families grant program.  In July, VA announced the award of nearly $300 million in grants to 319 community agencies to help approximately 120,000 homeless and at-risk Veterans and their families.

More recently, VA has announced $8.8 million in grants for 164 projects to acquire vans for homeless providers and to rehabilitate housing, plus $4.9 million in grants for 25 community-based projects to enhance services for Veterans.
The grants promote housing stability among homeless and at-risk Veterans and their families.  The grants can have an immediate impact, helping lift Veterans out of homelessness or providing aid in emergencies that put Veterans and their families at risk of homelessness.

OBAMA COMMITTED TO PURSUIT OF TERRORISTS

FROM:  U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT

Obama: U.S. Will Continue to Pursue Terrorists Overseas

By Nick Simeone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Oct. 8, 2013 - Just days after U.S. forces carried out raids in Libya and Somalia to bring wanted terrorists to justice, President Barack Obama made clear today the United States will continue to carry out similar strikes overseas as long as threats to the nation exist.

Obama made the comments two days after Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announced the military had seized al-Qaida member Abu Anas al Libi during an operation in Libya. Libi has been indicted in New York in connection with the 1998 U.S. Embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanzania.

"We know that Mr. al-Libi planned and helped execute plots that killed hundreds of people, a whole lot of Americans," Obama said in response to a question at a White House news conference that dealt almost entirely with his call for Congress to end the government shutdown and raise the nation's debt limit.

In a separate raid Oct. 4 in Somalia, U.S. military personnel carried out a targeted operation against Abdikadir Mohamed Abdikadir, also known as "Ikrima," identified as a top commander of the al-Qaida affiliated al-Shabaab terrorist group. A Pentagon spokesman said that operation did not lead to Ikrima's capture.

"Where you've got active plots and active networks, we're going to go after them," Obama said, referring to terrorists and others who pose risks to the United States. He said the quick-strike military operations carried out by U.S forces in Libya and Somalia do not signal the opening of a new war against terrorism.

"There is a difference between us going after terrorists who are plotting directly to do damage to the United States and us being involved in wars," and made reference to an address he delivered in May in which he said the United States will continue to dismantle networks that pose a direct danger to the country.

"The risks of terrorism and terrorist networks are going to continue for some time," Obama told reporters today, and added that a long-term plan is needed to prevent unemployed and uneducated young men from becoming radicalized.

"We've got to engage in a war of ideas in the region and engage with Muslim countries and try to isolate radical elements that are doing more danger to Muslims than they are doing to anybody else," he said.

A Pentagon spokesman said Libi is being detained under the law of war in a secure location outside Libya. Obama said today that he will be brought to justice.

The president added words of praise for the service members involved in the operations.

"The operations that took place both in Libya and Somalia were examples of the extraordinary skill and dedication and talent of our men and women in the armed forces," he said. "They do their jobs extremely well, with great precision, at great risk to themselves."
 

9-11 COMMEMORATED

FROM:  U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT 
Obama, Hagel, Dempsey Commemorate 9/11 Anniversary
By Terri Moon Cronk
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Sept. 11, 2013 - More than the stone and water that commemorate those who died at the Pentagon, the lives of survivors of the Sept. 11, 2001, attack are the greatest tribute to those who were lost, President Barack Obama said during the 12th anniversary wreath-laying ceremony for the attacks at the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial today.

Surrounded by hundreds of family members and survivors of that day -- when American Airlines Flight 77 struck the northwest side of the Pentagon -- the president, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey offered words of solace to those in attendance.
"From scripture, we learn of the miracle of restoration," Obama said. "'You who have made me see many troubles and calamities will revive me again. From the depths of the earth, you will bring me up again. You will increase my greatness and comfort me again.'"

Hearts still ache for the futures snatched away and the lives that might have been, the president said.

"The victims slipped from their loved ones' grasp, but it was written what the heart has once owned and had it shall never lose," he said. "What your families lost in the temporal, in the here and now, is now eternal, the pride that you carry in your hearts, the love that will never die.

Today, we remember not only those who died that September day, we pay solemn tribute to more than 6,700 patriots who have given their full measure since -- military and civilians," the president said. The nation sees their legacy in friendships they've forged, attacks they've prevented, innocent lives they've saved, and in their comrades in Afghanistan who are completing the mission and who, by the end of next year, will have helped to end the war there, he added.

"Let us have the wisdom to know that, while force is at times necessary, force alone cannot build the world we seek, so we recommit to the partnerships and progress that builds mutual respect, and deepens trust, and allows more people to live in dignity, prosperity and freedom," the president said.

"Let us have the confidence and the values that make us Americans, which we must never lose, the shining liberties that make us a beacon of the world, the rich diversity that makes us stronger, the unity and commitment to one another that we sustain on this National Day of Service and Remembrance," Obama said. "And above all, let us have the courage, like the survivors and families here today, to carry on no matter how dark the night or how difficult the day."

Hagel began his remarks by noting the significance of the timing and location of today's observance.

"Twelve years ago, at this hour, in this place, a horrific act of terror claimed 184 innocent lives," he said.

"We comfort the loved ones they left behind who still mourn and grieve, despite the passage of time," the secretary continued. "And our thoughts turn to others whose lives [were affected] by the fateful events that clear September morning, the first responders and survivors whose heroism we celebrate, the Pentagon personnel who came to work the next day with a greater sense of determination than ever before, and the men and women in uniform who have stepped forward to defend our country over 12 long years of war, bearing incredible sacrifices, along with their families."

In all of those men and women, the strength, resilience, and the sense of purpose that have always defined the United States of America is evident, he said.

"And that, too, is what the American people reflect upon today, for it is in these timeless qualities that we find hope for a better world and a better future," Hagel said.

Dempsey noted that at the point of Flight 77's impact, the Pentagon halls are lined with handmade quilts created by people from all around the country to "honor the selfless efforts" of responders and ordinary Americans who came to the rescue that day.

"And they wanted to affirm that our nation's fallen would be forever sewn into our hearts," he added.

Sept. 11 is a day that always will stand apart in the nation, the chairman said, "not because of what we say up here about service and selflessness and sacrifice, courage and character."

"It's something more," he said. "It's what those things say about us as Americans. No acts of terrorism can strike who we are. Nothing can steal away that for which we stand."

PRESIDENT OBAMA SAYS ANY U.S. FORCE IN AFGHANISTAN AFTER 2014 WILL HAVE TWO BASIC MISSIONS

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE 
President Reviews Options for U.S. Presence in Afghanistan
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, July 9, 2013 - President Barack Obama is reviewing options from his national security team on what the possible U.S. footprint in Afghanistan will look like after 2014, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said today.

The president has the "time and space" to make the decision, Little told reporters at the Pentagon.

"Any potential U.S. military presence beyond 2014 will focus on two basic missions: targeting al-Qaida and its affiliates and training and equipping the Afghan security forces and partners," Little said.

The size of U.S. forces will be covered under the Bilateral Security Agreement, which is under discussion between the United States and Afghanistan.

The United States supports a full, fully sovereign, democratic, and united Afghanistan, Little said.

"We're committed to peace and reconciliation in the country," he said. "And we remain prepared to negotiate with our Afghan partners to conclude the BSA, one that supports our shared objectives."

These discussions continue, and Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel continues talks with Afghan partners and with the NATO/U.S. commander in Afghanistan, Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., on the subject.

"We will continue to work through these issues," Little said.

He emphasized there is plenty of time for the two nations to negotiate the security agreement.

"It's July of 2013, and our drawdown won't be complete until December 2014," he said. Discussions will be influenced by intervening events and issues, including the Afghan elections next April.

The United States is not frustrated with the progress [or lack of progress] on the agreement, Little said.

"We continue to work through issues," he said. "We realize that there are going to be points of contention from time to time. That's natural of any partnership. But we think we can get through them."

All options are on the table in regards to a post-2014 U.S. presence in Afghanistan, Little said. This includes the so-called "zero-option" that White House official Ben Rhodes spoke about in January, Little said. This option, he said, is a possibility.

Afghan forces now lead the security effort throughout the country, and U.S., NATO and partner-nation troops are working with, training and equipping the Afghans, Little said.

"And we're seeing progress being made by the Afghan forces," he said. "They are making great sacrifices on behalf of their own country. They have demonstrated great resolve to take the fight to the enemy, and we're impressed by what we've seen."

SITUATION IN EGYPT UNDER REVIEW

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
President, Advisors Review Situation in Egypt

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, July 6, 2013 - President Barack Obama conferred with the National Security Council today to review the situation in Egypt, according to a White House release.


The National Security Council is the president's principal forum for considering national security and foreign policy matters with his senior national security advisors and cabinet officials, according to the council's website. Since its inception under President Harry S. Truman, the council's function has been to advise and assist the president on national security and foreign policies. The council also serves as the president's principal arm for coordinating these policies among various government agencies.

Here is the text of the White House release:

"President Obama convened a secure conference call with the National Security Council today to review the very fluid situation in Egypt. The President condemned the ongoing violence across Egypt and expressed concern over the continued political polarization. He reiterated that the United States is not aligned with, and does not support, any particular Egyptian political party or group.

"In line with that position, the United States categorically rejects the false claims propagated by some in Egypt that we are working with specific political parties or movements to dictate how Egypt's transition should proceed. We remain committed to the Egyptian people and their aspirations for democracy, economy opportunity, and dignity. But the future path of Egypt can only be determined by the Egyptian people.

"During this transitional period, we call on all Egyptians to come together in an inclusive process that allows for the participation of all groups and political parties. Throughout that process, the United States will continue to engage the Egyptian people in a spirit of partnership, consistent with our longstanding friendship and shared interests -- including our interest in a transition to sustainable democracy.

"We urge all Egyptian leaders to condemn the use of force and to prevent further violence among their supporters, just as we urge all those demonstrating to do so peacefully. As Egyptians look forward, we call on all sides to bridge Egypt's divisions, reject reprisals, and join together to restore stability and Egypt's democracy."

Also today, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little provided the following readout on Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel's recent conversations with officials from Egypt and the United Arab Emirates.

Here is the text of the readout:

"Yesterday and today, Secretary Hagel spoke to Egyptian Defense Minister al-Sisi on three occasions to discuss on-going events in Egypt. In their conversations, Secretary Hagel emphasized the need for a peaceful civilian transition in Egypt. He also noted the importance of security for the Egyptian people, Egypt's neighbors, and the region.

"Secretary Hagel also spoke to Crown Prince bin Zayed of the United Arab Emirates today to discuss the situation in Egypt and matters of mutual security concern in the Middle East."

PRESIDENT OBAMA'S REMARKS AT UBUNGO SYMBION POWER PLANT IN TANZANIA

FROM: THE WHITE HOUSE

Remarks by President Obama at Ubungo Symbion Power Plant

Ubungo Plaza, Symbion Power Plant
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

10:58 A.M. EAT

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Good morning, everybody. Please have a seat. It is wonderful to be here with President Kikwete. I want to thank everybody from Ubungo Power Plant for this visit. We are here today to focus on one of the biggest hurdles to Africa’s economic development -- the fact that nearly 70 percent of Africans lack access to electricity.

And that’s why in my speech in Cape Town I announced a major new initiative -- Power Africa -- to double access to electricity here in Africa. Now, the first step that we’re going to take is to try to bring electricity to 20 million homes and businesses.

And this plant represents the kind of public-private partnership that we want to replicate all across the continent. This facility was idle. But the Tanzanian government, under President Kikwete’s leadership, committed to making reforms in the energy sector. With support from the Millennium Challenge grant, General Electric, and Symbion, they got it up and running again. More Tanzanians got electricity.

So Power Africa embraces this model. Public and private resources will be matched with projects led by African countries that are taking the lead on reform. In this case, African governments commit to energy reforms. And the U.S. is committing some $7 billion in support, and private sector companies have already committed more than $9 billion. And this is just the beginning -- because we look forward to even more companies joining this effort.

So this is a win-win. It’s a win for Africans -- families get to electrify their homes; businesses can run their plants; investors can say if we locate in an African country, that they’re going to be able to power up in a reliable way. All this will make economies grow. It’s a win for the United States because the investments made here, including in cleaner energy, means more exports for the U.S. and more jobs in the U.S. And, obviously, a growing market in Africa will mean more opportunities for all countries.

And this reflects -- is representative of my new approach when it comes to development. I believe that the purpose of development should be to build capacity and to help other countries actually to stand on their own feet -- whether it’s in agriculture, in health systems, in electricity. Instead of perpetual aid, development has to fuel investment and economic growth so that assistance is no longer necessary, or some of the more successful countries in Africa can start being donors instead of recipients of assistance.

But development isn’t just about the big projects. Sometimes simple ideas can bring about transformational change. Some of you saw the Soccket -- the soccer ball that we were kicking around that generates electricity as it’s kicked. I don’t want to get too technical, but I thought it was pretty cool. And this is developed by two young women from the U.S., so Soccket turns one of the most popular games in Africa into a source of electricity and progress. And you can imagine this in villages all across the continent.

So that’s just the example of the kind of creativity that is possible if we’ve got the public sector and the private sector, and the not-for-profit sectors all working together.

Now, in order for this to work, then we all have to feel a sense of urgency. One of the things, Mr. President, that I learned around the business roundtable is if we are going to electrify Africa, we’ve got to do it with more speed. We can’t have projects that take, seven, eight, nine years to be approved and to get online. If we’re going to make this happen, we’ve got to cut through the red tape, and that can only happen with leadership like the leadership that President Kikwete has shown.

We’ve got to be able to say, when the environmental studies are done, when the planning is done, when the paperwork is done, we can move this approval process, clear the red tape, make sure that the regulatory structure is in place, and get these things up and running in a timely way -- because it’s hard to attract private-sector business if they feel as if their money is going to be tied up forever in uncertainty. So we want to focus on speed, but we also want to do it right. And the United States intends to be a strong partner in this process.

This is my last stop on my trip. We’re going to be heading home right after this. And as I think about the week that we’ve spent here, I think about the farmers in Senegal who are harnessing new technologies and, as a consequence, increasing yields; women who started off with one hectare now having sixteen, and doubling or tripling their income, and buying a tractor for the first time and suddenly they’re employing people, and the entire community is benefiting.

I think about amazing young Africans that I saw at the town hall meeting down in Soweto, and their eagerness to promote trade and not just to seek aid, to be entrepreneurs and starts businesses, and just hoping that the governments will support them and that the efforts will be made to increase transparency and accountability, and to eliminate corruption.

I think about the visit here to Tanzania -- the incredible progress that’s been made in reducing malaria and HIV and tuberculosis; the progress that’s been made in terms of education and agricultural improvements; and progress that’s being made as represented by this power plant.

And I think of all these things, and I see leaders like President Kikwete who are making every effort to do the right thing, and I’m inspired. Because I’m absolutely convinced that, with the right approach, Africa and its people can unleash a new era of prosperity. And that’s what Power Africa is all about. That’s what Feed the Future is all about. That’s what all our efforts are going to be about -- is making sure that Africans have the tools to create a better life for their people, and that the United States is a partner in that process. It’s going to be good for Africa, it’s going to be good for the United States, and it’s going to be good for the world.

So thank you very much, everyone. And most of all, thank you, President Kikwete, for your wonderful hospitality. Thank you. (Applause.)

PRESIDENT OBAMA'S WEEKLY ADDRESS

 

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

President Salutes Independence Day in Weekly Address

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, July 4, 2013 - In his weekly address issued today, President Barack Obama saluted Independence Day, praised past and present-day patriots -- including members of the U.S. military -- and asked Americans "to live up to the words of that Declaration of Independence, and secure liberty and opportunity for our own children, and for future generations."


Here is the text of the president's address:

Hi everybody. I hope you all had a safe and happy Fourth of July, filled with parades, cookouts, fireworks and family reunions.

We celebrated at the White House with a few hundred members of the military and their families. And we took a moment amid the festivities to remember what our Independence Day is all about -- what happened 237 years ago, and what it meant to the world.

On July 4th, 1776, a small band of patriots declared that we were a people created equal -- free to think and worship and live as we please. It was a declaration heard around the world -- that we were no longer colonists, we were Americans, and our destiny would not be determined for us; it would be determined by us.

It was a bold and tremendously brave thing to do. It was also nearly unthinkable. At that time, kings and princes and emperors ruled the world. But those patriots were certain that a better way was possible. And to achieve it -- to win their freedom -- they were willing to lay it all on the line. Their lives. Their fortunes. Their sacred honor.

They fought a revolution. Few would have bet on our side to win. But for the first of many times to come, America proved the doubters wrong.

And now, 237 years later, the United States -- this improbable nation -- is the greatest in the world. A land of liberty and opportunity. A global defender of peace and freedom. A beacon of hope to people everywhere who cherish those ideals.

Generations of Americans made our country what it is today -- farmers and teachers, engineers and laborers, entrepreneurs and elected leaders -- people from all walks of life, from all parts of the world, all pulling in the same direction.

And now we, the people, must make their task our own -- to live up to the words of that Declaration of Independence, and secure liberty and opportunity for our own children, and for future generations.

I want to say a special word of thanks to the men and women of our military, who have played such a vital role in the story of our nation. You have defended us at home and abroad. And you have fought on our nation's behalf to make the world a better, safer place. People in scattered corners of the world are living in peace today, free to write their own futures, because of you. We are grateful for your service and your sacrifice, especially those still serving in harm's way and your families here at home.

So, God bless you all. And may God bless the United States of America.

PRESIDENT OBAMA MAKES STATEMENT ON REMOVAL OF EGYPT'S PRESIDENT MORSY

FROM: THE WHITE HOUSE


Statement by President Barack Obama on Egypt

As I have said since the Egyptian Revolution, the United States supports a set of core principles, including opposition to violence, protection of universal human rights, and reform that meets the legitimate aspirations of the people. The United States does not support particular individuals or political parties, but we are committed to the democratic process and respect for the rule of law. Since the current unrest in Egypt began, we have called on all parties to work together to address the legitimate grievances of the Egyptian people, in accordance with the democratic process, and without recourse to violence or the use of force.

The United States is monitoring the very fluid situation in Egypt, and we believe that ultimately the future of Egypt can only be determined by the Egyptian people. Nevertheless, we are deeply concerned by the decision of the Egyptian Armed Forces to remove President Morsy and suspend the Egyptian constitution. I now call on the Egyptian military to move quickly and responsibly to return full authority back to a democratically elected civilian government as soon as possible through an inclusive and transparent process, and to avoid any arbitrary arrests of President Morsy and his supporters. Given today’s developments, I have also directed the relevant departments and agencies to review the implications under U.S. law for our assistance to the Government of Egypt.

The United States continues to believe firmly that the best foundation for lasting stability in Egypt is a democratic political order with participation from all sides and all political parties —secular and religious, civilian and military. During this uncertain period, we expect the military to ensure that the rights of all Egyptian men and women are protected, including the right to peaceful assembly, due process, and free and fair trials in civilian courts. Moreover, the goal of any political process should be a government that respects the rights of all people, majority and minority; that institutionalizes the checks and balances upon which democracy depends; and that places the interests of the people above party or faction. The voices of all those who have protested peacefully must be heard – including those who welcomed today’s developments, and those who have supported President Morsy. In the interim, I urge all sides to avoid violence and come together to ensure the lasting restoration of Egypt’s democracy.

No transition to democracy comes without difficulty, but in the end it must stay true to the will of the people. An honest, capable and representative government is what ordinary Egyptians seek and what they deserve. The longstanding partnership between the United States and Egypt is based on shared interests and values, and we will continue to work with the Egyptian people to ensure that Egypt’s transition to democracy succeeds.

U.S. GOVERNMENT ISSUES RULES REGARDING RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS AND CONTRACEPTION COVERAGE

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Administration issues final rules on contraception coverage and religious organizations

Today, the Obama administration issued final rules that balance the goal of providing women with coverage for recommended preventive care – including contraceptive services prescribed by a health care provider – with no cost-sharing, with the goal of respecting the concerns of non-profit religious organizations that object to contraceptive coverage. The final rules reflect public feedback received in response to the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking issued in February 2013.


"The health care law guarantees millions of women access to recommended preventive services at no cost," said Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "Today’s announcement reinforces our commitment to respect the concerns of houses of worship and other non-profit religious organizations that object to contraceptive coverage, while helping to ensure that women get the care they need, regardless of where they work."

Today’s final rules finalize the proposed simpler definition of "religious employer" for purposes of the exemption from the contraceptive coverage requirement in response to concerns raised by some religious organizations. These employers, primarily houses of worship, may exclude contraceptive coverage from their health plans for their employees and their dependents.

The final rules also lay out the accommodation for other non-profit religious organizations - such as non-profit religious hospitals and institutions of higher education - that object to contraceptive coverage. Under the accommodation these organizations will not have to contract, arrange, pay for or refer contraceptive coverage to which they object on religious grounds, but such coverage is separately provided to women enrolled in their health plans at no cost. The approach taken in the final rules is similar to, but simpler than, that taken in the proposed rules, and responds to comments made by many stakeholders.

With respect to an insured health plan, including a student health plan, the non-profit religious organization provides notice to its insurer that it objects to contraception coverage. The insurer then notifies enrollees in the health plan that it is providing them separate no-cost payments for contraceptive services for as long as they remain enrolled in the health plan.

Similarly, with respect to self-insured health plans, the non-profit religious organization provides notice to its third party administrator that objects to contraception coverage. The third party administrator then notifies enrollees in the health plans that it is providing or arranging separate no-cost payments for contraceptive services for them for as long as they remain enrolled in the health plan.

The final rules provide more details on the accommodation for both insurers and third party administrators.

The final rules strike the appropriate between respecting the religious considerations raised by non-profit religious organizations and increasing access to important preventive services for women.

PRESIDENT OBAMA, FRENCH PRESIDENT HOLLANDE HOLD PRIVATE MEETING

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Obama, French President Discuss Afghanistan After Summit
By Claudette Roulo
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 19, 2013 - President Barack Obama held a private meeting yesterday with French President Francois Hollande in Lough Erne, Northern Ireland, following the annual G-8 conference.


Speaking to the reporters following the meeting, Obama said the two leaders discussed the progress made by Afghanistan's security forces, now in the lead for security throughout the country. This meets the milestone agreed upon at last year's NATO summit in Chicago, the president noted.

"Both President Hollande and I agree that an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process is the best way to end the violence and to ensure lasting stability in Afghanistan and the region," Obama said.

Qatar's recent announcement that an office would be opened in its capital city of Doha to host negotiations between Afghans is an important first step towards reconciliation, Obama said.

"It's a very early step -- we anticipate there will be a lot of bumps in the road -- but the fact that the parties have an opportunity to talk and discuss Afghanistan's future, I think, is very important," he said.

"The one thing that we do believe is that any insurgent group, including the Taliban, is going to need to accept an Afghan constitution that renounces ties with al-Qaida, ends violence and is committed to the protection of women and minorities in the country," the president continued.

Obama noted that discussions on this issue have taken place over the last several months between himself, Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Qatar's emir, Sheik Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

"I want to publicly commend President Karzai for taking this courageous step, and his determination to end the conflict and build a future of security and peace and prosperity for the Afghan people," he said.

"I want to repeat, we don't anticipate this process will be easy or quick, but we must pursue in parallel with our military approach," the president said. The United States remains fully committed to its military efforts to defeat al-Qaida and to support the Afghan security forces, he added.

In addition to the transition in Afghanistan, the two leaders discussed the situation in Syria. Obama noted that both countries have strong evidence that chemical weapons have been used in Syria by the Bashar Assad regime.

"We are very comfortable with the approach taken by the G-8 that allows the U.N. the full powers it needs to investigate and establish these facts on the ground," he said.

"In the Middle East and Syria, we very much share the view that it is important for us to build on the G-8 communiqué -- to move towards a political transition inside of Syria, to build a strong opposition that can function in a post-Assad world -- and that we will continue to work to try to find a political solution to this process and, most importantly, alleviate suffering and ensure that chemical weapons are not used by anyone inside of Syria," the president said.

Obama also praised French efforts in Mali.

"This is a situation in which France was able to stop the splintering of a nation-state by a terrorist organization, and now is in a position to reaffirm democracy and legitimacy and an effective government inside of Mali," the president said.

"That involved considerable sacrifice on the part of the French people, but it's part of a broader commitment on both our parts to pursue a smart counterterrorism policy that works with partners in the region," he continued.

Finally, the president said he welcomes France's decision to support the European Union's designation of Lebanese Hezbollah as a terrorist organization. "I think that sends a powerful signal that Europe stands firmly against Hezbollah's terrorist activities," Obama said.

The action "is consistent with the view that the only way that we can bring about a peaceful and prosperous Middle East is to isolate extremism and to promote those persons and institutions that are committed to a pluralistic, open and tolerant society that's based on rule of law," he added.

The United States is committed to strengthening its relationship with the French government, the president said. "When countries like the United States and France act in concert, we can get an awful lot done," Obama added.

PRESIDENT OBAMA WANTS MORE CUTS IN NUCLEAR ARSENALS

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Obama Calls for Further Cuts in Nuclear Arms
By Nick Simeone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 19, 2013 - President Barack Obama today announced his intention to seek deeper cuts in the U.S. nuclear arsenal, provided Russia is willing to negotiate similar reductions.


In an address before several thousand people at Berlin's Brandenburg Gate, Obama said a comprehensive review has determined America can ensure its own safety and that of its allies by reducing the number of deployed strategic nuclear weapons in the U.S. arsenal by up to one-third.

"I intend to seek negotiated cuts with Russia to move beyond Cold War nuclear postures," he said, and repeated the goal he articulated in 2009 of "pursuing the security of a world without nuclear weapons, no matter how distant that dream may be."

U.S. officials said the proposed cuts would take the number of strategic warheads for both countries below the limit of 1,550 established by the 2010 New START Treaty, provided Russia is willing to agree to those levels as well. Administration officials said the reductions would still leave the United States with a credible nuclear deterrent as well as strategic stability with Russia and China, while reducing the role of nuclear weapons in U.S. national security strategy.

"At the same time, we'll work with our NATO allies to seek bold reductions in U.S. and Russian tactical weapons in Europe," the president said, and he added that the United States will host a summit in 2016 "to continue our efforts to secure nuclear materials around the world" while working to build support in the United States for ratification of the long-stalled Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.

Obama also touched on a theme he raised during a counterterrorism address he delivered last month, stressing again the need to remain vigilant about the terror threat, while moving beyond "a mindset of perpetual war."

"In America, that means redoubling our efforts to close the prison at Guantanamo," he said. "It means tightly controlling our use of new technologies like drones. It means balancing the pursuit of security with the protection of privacy," the latter being a reference to recently disclosed data-mining programs run by the National Security Agency that administration officials say have prevented more than 50 terrorist attacks since 9/11.

OBAMA, PUTIN AGREE ON CYBER AND NUCLEAR COOPERTION

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

U.S., Russia Agree to Cooperate on Cyber, Nukes
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 18, 2013 - Cooperation at many levels will help to reduce misunderstandings between the United States and Russia, the leaders of both countries said after meetings in Northern Ireland yesterday.


Presidents Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin agreed to cooperate on a number of different aspects of the bilateral relationship. The men spoke at Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, as part of the G-8 Summit.

Putin said the United States and Russia "have an opportunity to move forward on most sensitive directions."

The two leaders discussed Syria. While they do not agree on all points, they said, they both want the violence in the Middle East country to stop. "We agreed to push the parties to the negotiations table," the Russian president said.

Obama stressed that discussions on Iran and North Korea were productive. "We both agreed to consult closely on the North Korean issue," he said in his remarks. "On Iran, we both ... expressed cautious optimism that with a new election there, we may be able to move forward on a dialogue that allows us to resolve the problems with Iran's nuclear program."

Obama noted that Russia and the United States are the world's two nuclear superpowers. "We have a special obligation to try to continue to reduce tensions, to build on the work that we did with New START, and to lead the world in both nuclear security issues and proliferation issues," he said. As part of that, the United States and Russia signed a convention to continue the Nunn-Lugar program to counter potential threats of proliferation and to enhance nuclear security.

"By working together, we not only increase security and prosperity for the Russian and American people, but also help lead the world to a better place," Obama said.

The two nations also negotiated a range of steps designed to increase transparency and reduce the possibility that a misunderstood cyber incident could create instability or a crisis in the bilateral relationship. Part of this will result in better links between the two countries' Computer Emergency Response Teams, officials said.

FACT SHEET: THE HIGH SCHOOL REDESIGN INITIATIVE

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Fact Sheet: Redesigning America's High Schools
June 7, 2013
The fact sheet below highlights how the High School Redesign initiative will challenge high schools and their partners to rethink teaching and learning and put in place learning models that are rigorous, relevant, and better focused on real-world experiences.
Meeting President Obama's goal to lead the world in college attainment by the end of this decade demands a new investment and vision to transform America's high schools to prepare students for innovative and global economy.

While American 15-year-olds rank in the middle of the pack internationally on indicators of science, reading, and math, America's international peers are enhancing the rigor and relevance of experiences offered to students in their middle and high school years. Many nations offer the opportunity for students to enroll in educational programs that develop knowledge and skills needed for success in college and in a competitive workforce. Today's global economy requires new approaches to teaching and learning in America's high schools to foster problem solving and analysis, to support creativity and collaboration, and to connect student learning directly to the real world. Students learn best when they are engaged in complex projects and tasks aligned with their interests and when they work with others through practical examples and case studies that engage them in rigorous academics and in the application of knowledge.

President Obama's High School Redesign initiative will encourage America's school districts and their partners to use existing federal, state and local resources to transform the high school experience for America's youth through a whole school redesign effort. This effort will challenge high schools and their partners to rethink teaching and learning and put in place learning models that are rigorous, relevant, and better focused on real-world experiences. These reforms will incorporate personalized learning and career and college exploration and ensure that all students graduate with college-level coursework or college credit, as well as with career-related experiences or competencies.

The High School Redesign initiative will promote a rethinking of the high school learning experience, and challenge schools to:
Redesign academic content and instructional practices to align with postsecondary education and careers and to foster deep understanding and mastery, with student-centered learning in a culture of high expectations.
Personalize learning opportunities to support the educational needs and interests of individual students, optimize the pace of learning, and customize content and practices for students to master challenging academic content and pursue their interests.
Provide academic and wrap-around support services for those students who need them, such as tutoring, mentoring, and comprehensive supports, so that all learners—including low-income students, English learners, and students with disabilities—can successfully graduate and transition smoothly into postsecondary learning and adulthood.
Provide high-quality career and college exploration and counseling for students on postsecondary educational options, including education and training requirements for careers, college success skills, and financial aid options available for postsecondary education and training.
Offer opportunities to earn postsecondary credit while still in high school through college-level coursework, such as dual enrollment, advanced placement courses, or other postsecondary learning opportunities.
Provide career-related experiences or competencies such as organized internships or mentorships; project- or problem-based learning; real-world challenges developed in consultation with employers or service organizations; and structured work-based learning opportunities.
Strategically use learning time in more meaningful ways, which could include effective application of technology, redesigning school calendars, and competency-based progression.
Provide evidence-based professional development to deepen educators' skills, support collaboration and expand a comprehensive system of student support.
Redesigned high schools will move away from the traditional notion of seat time and focus instead on the knowledge and skills needed to successfully transition from high school to college and careers. Changes to the current high school structure and experience will require collaboration and contributions from a number of partners from both the public and private sectors, including institutions of higher education, non-profits, business and industry.

The High School Redesign initiative would support competitive grants to local educational agencies (LEAs) in partnership with institutions of higher education and other entities, such as non-profits, community-based organizations, government agencies, and business or industry-related organizations to help schools apply academic concepts to real world challenges. Partnerships and projects will connect high school experiences with relevant business, community, and postsecondary partners in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, while enhancing for students living in high poverty and rural communities. Special consideration will be given to partnerships with employers that provide students at participating schools with career-related experiences or help students attain career-related credentials.


Promising Examples of Redesigned High Schools
Several transformative high school designs incorporate innovative approaches to teaching and learning that lead to higher academic outcomes, greater student engagement, and future student success:

Manor New Tech High School: President Obama recently visited Manor New Tech High School outside of Austin, Texas. Manor New Tech High School is part of the New Tech Network, a network of 100 schools across 18 states that embrace nontraditional approaches to deliver positive outcomes for students using project-based and student-centered, inquiry-based learning as guiding principles. New Tech schools focus on STEM instruction and incorporate technology as a central element to teaching and learning, providing every student access to a computer and network to encourage collaborative learning. Student learning is assessed based on the mastery of academic content along with progress towards achieving skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, communications, and creativity. Evaluations and digital portfolios allow a comprehensive understanding of students' accomplishments and provide parents and teachers guidance on how to individualize each student's academic program.

Characteristically rooted in rich partnerships with higher education, businesses, local technology companies, and the community, Manor New Tech was founded in collaboration with the Texas High School Project, the Texas Governor's Office, and Samsung Semi-Conductor and a $4 million through a Texas STEM grant program. These assets provide support opportunities for students at Manor New Tech schools to earn college credit, to visit laboratories and workplaces, and to engage in mentorships with businesses and community leaders. Today, 84 percent of graduates are enrolled in college—56 percent of students are first in their family to attend college.

Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH): The Pathways in Technology Early College High School, a Brooklyn-based middle and high school, was established in 2011 as a partnership between IBM, the New York City Schools, and the City University of New York's College of Technology. In 2017, the school will graduate its first class of students who—over six years of STEM study and training—earn a joint high school diploma and associate's degree in computer information systems and electromechanical engineering technology. P-TECH's rigorous course of academic study was co-designed with IBM, and the company has invested $500,000 to provide software support and mentoring and internship opportunities for every P-TECH student with IBM and CUNY mentor.

Reynoldsburg High School in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, hosts four interest-based "academies" that provide hands-on learning experiences in highly personalized environments that are aligned with students' interests. Reynoldsburg recently redesigned the high school to enable greater student choice among the BELL Academy (Business, Education, Law and Leadership); the Health Science Academy; the eSTEM (Environmental Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Academy; and the Encore (Art, Communication and Design) Academy. Mastery learning ensures students gain essential knowledge and skills and advance through personalized learning pathways. Strong partnerships with local universities, health providers, local and state government agencies and businesses enhance student learning and expand enriching opportunities. A key component to Reynoldsburg's personalized approach is offering students and parents choices among these specialized instructional models, while maintaining equitable access to the district's programs.

The High Tech High network of schools is an outgrowth of a highly successful school developed in 2000 in San Diego, Calif., through a partnership with civic and business leaders, including Qualcomm and the Business Roundtable. The schools employ small school sizes, openness of the physical facility, personalization through advisory, an emphasis on integrated, project-based learning and student exhibitions, and a requirement that all students complete internships and other field-work in the community. High Tech High incorporates four core approaches to their model, including: (1) personalization, through which teachers encourage students to explore their personal interests in core academic areas and to maintain a digital, on-line portfolio of their work; (2) adult-world connections, including semester-long academic internships and shadowing opportunities; (3) rigorous curriculum for all students; and (4) team teaching and planning to develop projects and schedules for every 5-70 students. Students outperform their peers in other San Diego schools on the California academic assessments, with high rates of participation in advanced STEM courses, including physics, chemistry and advanced mathematics.

Loving High School is located in a rural area of New Mexico, and between 2004 and 2009, the school boasted an average college attendance rate of 60 percent—almost double the national average among rural schools. Loving High School offers dual-credit courses (75 percent of students take advantage of this opportunity) and has gained national notice for its programs in career and technical education. The school specializes in architecture and construction and—through private and state grants—students are given hand-on experience in building a home. The school also collaborates with nearby schools via videoconferencing—another solution to the challenge of isolation that many rural schools face.

PRESIDENTS OBAMA AND XI AGREED ON NEED FOR NORTH KOREA TO DENUCLEARIZE

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Obama, Xi Agree North Korea Must Denuclearize
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 9, 2013 - During their two-days of informal talks in Rancho Mirage, Calif., that concluded yesterday, President Barack Obama and Chinese President Xi Jingpin agreed that North Korea must denuclearize, and that the United States and China will work together to resolve cybersecurity and other issues, National Security Advisor Tom Donilon told reporters in Palm Springs, Calif., yesterday.


"I'd say at the outset that the President had very good discussions in an informal atmosphere, uniquely informal atmosphere, with President Xi over the last two days," Donilon told reporters. "The discussions were positive and constructive, wide-ranging and quite successful in achieving the goals that we set forth for this meeting."

A specific goal of the talks, Donilon said, was "to build a personal relationship between the President and President Xi, and have an opportunity not under the pressure of being on the margins of another multilateral meeting to really sit down and explore the contours of the U.S.-China relationship."

During dinner on June 7, Obama and Xi "had a lengthy discussion about North Korea," Donilon said. China, he added, has taken a number of steps in recent months to send a clear message to North Korea, including through enhanced enforcement of sanctions and through public statements by the senior leadership in China.

Obama and Xi "agreed that North Korea has to denuclearize; that neither country will accept North Korea as a nuclear-armed state; and that we would work together to deepen U.S.-China cooperation and dialogue to achieve denuclearization," Donilon said.

Obama also emphasized to President Xi "that the United States will take any steps that we need to take to defend ourselves and our allies from the threat that North Korea presents," he added.

"The two sides stressed the importance of continuing to apply pressure both to halt North Korea's ability to proliferate and to make clear that its continued pursuit of nuclear weapons is incompatible with its economic development goals," Donilon said. "The discussions on this issue, I believe, will allow us to continue to move ahead and work in a careful way in terms of our cooperation to work together to achieve our ends."

The bottom line, Donilon said, "is I think we had quite a bit of alignment on the Korean issue -- North Korean issue, and absolute agreement that we would continue to work together on concrete steps in order to achieve the joint goals that the United States and China have with respect to the North Korean nuclear program."

Yesterday morning, Obama and Xi discussed economic issues, during which cybersecurity and other cyber issues were an important topic, Donilon said. The United States and China, he said, have a half-a-trillion-dollar-a-year trade relationship.

"Obviously, given the importance of our economic ties, the President made clear the threat posed to our economic and national security by cyber-enabled economic espionage," Donilon said. "And I want to be clear on exactly what we're talking about here. What we're talking about here are efforts by entities in China to, through cyber attacks, engage in the theft of public and private property -- intellectual property and other property in the United States. And that is the focus here, which is why it was in the economic discussion this morning.

"And again, we had a detailed discussion on this," he continued. "The President underscored that resolving this issue is really key to the future of U.S.-China economic relations. He asked President Xi to continue to look seriously at the problem that we've raised here."

The Chinese have agreed to look at this, Donilon said, noting that Obama and Xi have provided guidance to the new cyber working group that's been established as part of the U.S.-China strategic economic dialogue.

The cyber working group "will engage in a dialogue on the rules and norms of behavior in cyberspace that will explore confidence-building measures," Donilon said. "And we instructed the teams to report back on their discussions to the leaders."

Obama and Xi also discussed military-to-military relationships between the United States and China, Donilon said.

"It's the military-to-military relationship that lags behind our political and our economic relationship," Donilon said. "This was acknowledged on the Chinese side, and we actually have some momentum behind increasing and deepening these relationships as we go forward here, as we try to build a comprehensive and positive relationship with China."

Returning to the two presidents' discussion about North Korea, Donilon said, "The important point here is full agreement on the goals -- that is denuclearization; full agreement that in fact the Security Council resolutions which put pressure on North Korea need to be enforced, and full agreement that we will work together to look at steps that need to be taken in order to achieve the goal."

If North Korea continues to pursue a nuclear weapons program, that would allow it to become a proliferator, which would present a threat to the United States ... "and which would allow them to really up-end, if you will, security in Northeast Asia," Donilon said.

"A recognized nuclear weapon state in Pyongyang, weapons program in Pyongyang would of course have profound implications in the rest of Northeast Asia, and these are obviously results that the Chinese don't want to see," Donilon added. "They're results the United States doesn't want to see. So I think what you have essentially underway here is a shared threat analysis and a shared analysis as to what the implications and impact would be of North Korea pursuing a nuclear weapons program."

PRESIDENT OBAMA AND CHINESE PRESIDENT XI MEET IN PALM SPRINGS

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Obama, Xi Emphasize Importance of U.S.-China Relationship
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 7, 2013 - President Barack Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping both highlighted the importance of the U.S.-China relationship during their remarks made today before the start of their informal talks at the Sunnylands estate in Palm Springs, Calif.


In welcoming the Chinese president, Obama noted that Xi just took office in March.

"Our decision to meet so early, I think, signifies the importance of the U.S.-China relationship," Obama said. "It's important not only for the prosperity of our two countries and the security of our two countries, but it's also important for the Asia-Pacific region and important for the world."

Obama said he and Xi thought that meeting in sunny California would provide "the opportunity for a more extended and more informal conversation, in which we were able to share both our visions for our respective countries and how we can forge a new model of cooperation between countries based on mutual interest and mutual respect."

The president said he believes "both of us agree that continuous and candid and constructive conversation and communication is critically important to shaping our relationship for years to come."

Obama said the United States "welcomes the continuing peaceful rise of China as a world power and that, in fact, it is in the United States' interest that China continues on the path of success, because we believe that a peaceful and stable and prosperous China is not only good for Chinese but also good for the world and for the United States."

And, as two of the largest economies in the world, the U.S. and China are going to have a healthy economic competition, Obama acknowledged.

"But we also have a whole range of challenges on which we have to cooperate, from a nuclear North Korea -- or North Korea's nuclear and missile programs -- to proliferation, to issues like climate change," Obama said.

The United States seeks an international economy and international economic order, Obama said, where "nations are playing by the same rules, where trade is free and fair, and where the United States and China work together to address issues like cybersecurity and the protection of intellectual property."

And, "in addition to the strategic concerns that we share and the economic challenges that each of our countries face, I will continue to emphasize the importance of human rights," Obama said. President Xi, he added, "has spoken of a nation and a people that are committed to continuous self-improvement and progress, and history shows that upholding universal rights are ultimately a key to success and prosperity and justice for all nations."

Obama acknowledged there are "areas of tension" between the United States and China.

"But what I've learned over the last four years is both the Chinese people and the American people want a strong, cooperative relationship," Obama said, "and that I think there's a strong recognition on the part of both President Xi and myself that it is very much in our interest to work together to meet the global challenges that we face."

"And I'm very much looking forward to this being a strong foundation for the kind of new model of cooperation that we can establish for years to come," Obama added.

Through an interpreter Xi thanked Obama for the welcome, noting, "This is a wonderful place, a place of sunshine, and it's very close to the Pacific Ocean. And on the other side of the ocean is China. When I visited the United States last year, I stated that the vast Pacific Ocean has enough space for the two large countries of China and the United States. I still believe so."

Xi said he and Obama are meeting "to chart the future of China-U.S. relations and draw a blueprint for this relationship and continue our cooperation across the Pacific Ocean."

The Chinese president recalled "what happened over 40 years ago when the leaders of China and the United States, with the strategists' political courage and wisdom, realized a handshake across the Pacific Ocean and reopened the door of exchanges between China and the United States."

Since then, Xi said, "the China-U.S. relationship has gone through winds and rains and it made historical progress. And our two peoples and the people elsewhere in the world have reaped huge benefits from this."

Today, the China-U.S. relationship has reached a new historical starting point, Xi said.

"Our two countries have vast convergence of shared interests, from promoting our respective economic growth at home to ensuring the stability of the global economy; from addressing international and regional hotspot issues to dealing with all kinds of global challenges," Xi said. "On all these issues, our two countries need to increase exchanges and cooperation."

And, China and the United States need to take a close look at their bilateral relationship, Xi said.

"What kind of China-U.S. relationship do we both want? What kind of cooperation can our two nations carry out for mutual benefit?" Xi asked. "And how can our two nations join together to promote peace and development in the world? These are things that not just the people in our two countries are watching closely, but the whole world is also watching very closely."

Xi said China and the U.S. should both proceed from the fundamental interests of their people and to bear in mind human development and progress.

"We need to think creatively and act energetically, so that working together we can build a new model of major country relationship," Xi said.

"President Obama, I look forward to having in-depth communication with you on major strategic issues of common interest to deepen our mutual understanding and to push forward all-round cooperation," Xi said. "I'm confident that our meeting will achieve positive outcomes and inject fresh momentum into the China-U.S. relationship. Thank you."

DOD REPORTS ON PRESIDENT OBAMA'S REMARKS ON MENTAL HEALTH CARE FOR VETS

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

Obama: Nation Pours Resources Into Mental Health Care for Vets
By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 3, 2013 - The Veterans Affairs Department is improving access for veterans to mental health services, President Barack Obama said today in remarks that opened the National Conference on Mental Health.

Obama and Vice President Joe Biden are hosting the conference at the White House as part of the administration's effort to increase understanding of and awareness about mental health and reduce the associated stigma.

Obama delivered opening remarks, and Biden will deliver closing remarks at the conference later today.

"We're ... doing more to support our troops and our veterans who are suffering from things like traumatic brain injury or PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder," the president told the audience. "Today, we lose 22 veterans a day to suicide -- 22. We've got to do a better job ... of preventing these all-too-often silent tragedies. That's why we've poured an enormous amount of resources into high-quality care and better treatment for our troops."

In response to a presidential executive order, VA has hired 1,600 mental health providers and more than 300 peer-to-peer veteran specialists, according to a White House statement.

The department also has enhanced the capacity of its crisis line by 50 percent and established 24 pilot projects in nine states where VA is partnering with community mental-health providers to help veterans more quickly access mental health services, the statement said.

Joining the president on stage at the conference were Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Education Secretary Arne Duncan, among others.

The president said VA is directing 151 of its health care centers nationwide to conduct mental health summits with community partners, which include local government officials, community-based organizations and veteran service organizations. The summits will be held from July 1 through Sept. 15 and will identify and link community-based resources to support the mental health needs of veterans and their families and increase awareness of VA programs and services, he explained.

"They're going to hold more than 150 summits like this one in communities all across the country so that every one of our service members and veterans understand [that] just like you take care of yourselves and each other on the battlefield, you've got to do the same off the battlefield," Obama said. "That's part of being strong."

Conference attendees are people from across the country -- mental health advocates, educators, veterans, health care providers, faith leaders, members of Congress, representatives from local governments and individuals who have struggled with mental health problems.

Today, they are discussing how they can work together to reduce stigma and help millions of Americans struggling with mental health problems recognize the importance of reaching out for assistance. Obama said there should be no shame in discussing or seeking help for treatable illnesses that affect too many people.

"We see it in veterans who come home from the battlefield with the invisible wounds of war, but who feel somehow that seeking treatment is a sign of weakness when, in fact, it's a sign of strength," he added.

As part of the effort, the administration today launched http://mentalhealth.gov, a consumer-friendly website with tools that help users with the basics of mental health and the signs of mental illness, and show them how to talk about mental health and how to get help.

The website includes a series of videos featuring celebrities and other Americans whose lives have been touched by mental illness.

In November 2011, VA launched an award-winning, national public awareness campaign called "Make the Connection," which is aimed at reducing the stigma associated with seeking mental health care and telling veterans, their families, friends and members of their communities about VA resources.

"We wanted to bring together folks who've suffered from mental illness and families who supported them," the president said at today's conference. "We wanted to bring together advocates and educators, faith leaders, veterans, local officials -- all of you have shown an extraordinary commitment to what is a critical goal, and that is to make sure that people aren't suffering in silence."

PRESIDENT OBAMA NOTES SACRIFICES OF SERVICE MERMBERS AND FAMILIES

FROM:  U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

President Notes Sacrifices of Service Members, Families

By Amaani Lyle
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 25, 2013 - As Americans kick off a long weekend for the May 27 observance of Memorial Day, President Barack Obama today recognized the ultimate sacrifices of U.S. service members, lauding them as heroes who helped to build a free and prosperous nation.

In his weekly address, Obama noted the courage of those willing to fight and even die for America's success.

"At a time when only about 1 percent of the American people bear the burden of our defense, the service and sacrifice of our men and women in uniform isn't always readily apparent," the president said. "They risk their lives, and many give their lives, for something larger than themselves or any of us: the ideals of liberty and justice that make America a beacon of hope for the world."

The president emphasized that Americans must do more than remember the sacrifices of U.S. service members over the nation's history, from a "tiny band of revolutionaries [who] stood up to an empire" to the 9/11 Generation that continues to serve and sacrifice today.

"We must care for the loved ones that our fallen service members have left behind," he said. "We must make sure all our veterans have the care and benefits they've earned, and the jobs and opportunity they deserve."

Obama also lauded families whose loved ones are in harm's way, saying that they, too, serve.

"We must make sure that the men and women of our armed forces have the support they need to achieve their missions safely at home and abroad," the president said.

Obama called on Americans to help in preserving what service member sacrifices have achieved in pursuit of a fair and free nation.

"It is our obligation," he said, "and it is our privilege, as the heirs of those who came before us, and as citizens of the United States of America."

PRESIDENT OBAMA, TURKISH LEADER DISCUSS SYRIA IN MEETING

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Obama, Turkish Leader Discuss Syria in White House Meeting

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, May 16, 2013 - While he retains the full range of options against the Assad regime in Syria, President Barack Obama said here today, he still believes international efforts are the best way to move forward.

In a Rose Garden news conference, Obama and Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Syria was a big part of their White House discussions today.

United Nations officials estimate that more than 80,000 Syrians have been killed in the past two years and more than 5 million Syrians are refugees. Bashar Assad's regime has launched Scud missiles at rebel-held areas and may have used chemical weapons against their own people.

The United States already is taking steps against the Syrian regime, the president said. "I reserve the options of taking additional steps -- both diplomatic and military -- because those chemical weapons inside of Syria also threaten our security over the long term, as well as our allies and friends and neighbors."

But Syria is an international problem, the president said. "It is very much my hope to continue to work with all the various parties involved, including Turkey, to find a solution that brings peace to Syria, stabilizes the region, stabilizes those chemical weapons," he said.

The United States should not do this alone, Obama said. "I don't think anybody in the region ... would think that U.S. unilateral actions in and of themselves would bring about a better outcome inside of Syria," the president said.

Turkey has shared all the information it has on possible use of chemical weapons inside Syria, Erdogan said through an interpreter. "The U.N. Security Council [and] all the other relevant authorities will also receive that information in the proper time so that more information is provided to the public," the prime minister said.

Obama said the United States has seen evidence of chemical weapons use inside of Syria. "It is important for us to make sure that we're able to get more specific information about what exactly is happening there," the president said. "But separate and apart from the chemical weapons, we know that tens of thousands of people are being killed with artillery and mortars, and that the humanitarian crisis and the slaughter that's taking place by itself is sufficient to prompt strong international action."

Hundreds of thousands of Syrians have taken refuge in Turkey, and Obama praised the Turkish leader for his nation's humanitarian efforts. The United States will support Turkey in providing humanitarian aid, he added.

The two leaders also discussed economic ties between the two nations, the situation in Iraq, operations in Afghanistan, NATO, Cyprus and the dangers of terrorism.

PRESIDENT OBAMA'S EXPORT CONTROL REFORM INITIATIVE

FROM: U.S. DEPARTMET OF STATE
The President's Export Control Reform Initiative: Reinventing the System and Promoting National Security
Fact Sheet
Bureau of Public Affairs
May 10, 2013

"We need fundamental reform in all four areas of our current control system – in what we control, how we control it, how we enforce those controls, and how we manage our controls."
- President Barack Obama

President Barack Obama’s Export Control Reform Initiative is a common sense approach to overhauling the nation’s export control system. The President’s entire national security team supports a comprehensive overhaul of the system to meet the current and anticipated U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives of the 21st century.

Reform Goals

The Administration has determined that fundamental reform of the current system is necessary to enhance our national security by:
Focusing resources on the threats that matter most
Increasing interoperability with our Allies
Strengthening the U.S. defense industrial base by reducing incentives for foreign manufacturers to design out and avoid using U.S. parts and components.
Overlapping Jurisdictions

The current system operates under laws written in the 1970s and is designed to address the challenges of the Cold War. Its functions are spread across seven U.S. Government departments (Commerce, Defense, Energy, Homeland Security, Justice, State, and Treasury). This results in ambiguity and confusion for U.S. companies and leads to jurisdictional disputes between departments, which delay license decisions for months and even years. This harms U.S. business, is bad for enforcing our export control requirements, and impedes our ability to prosecute those who violate U.S. export control laws. The solution is not simply to expand government by adding more licensing and enforcement personnel.

Need for Reform

Without better discrimination among export items and destinations of greatest concern, the U.S. Government would need to continually expand its licensing and enforcement resources to cover every export part and component, even those destined for governments of close Allies. The current system also is slowly strangling the U.S. defense industrial base and eroding America’s ability to manufacture domestically the parts and components needed for its own weapons systems.

National Security Dimension

The Export Control Reform Initiative will improve our ability to meet national security and foreign policy objectives. The reforms will more stringently protect our most sensitive items, ensuring that such items do not go to end-users or end-uses of concern. As part of these reforms, the Administration is recalibrating the controls and licensing requirements on items that, if diverted, pose a low risk to national security, so the government can focus its review on and improve its ability to protect more critical items. This amounts to a good government prioritization of our export controls.

Enhancing Export Prohibitions

The reform initiative will enhance, not ease, the prohibitions on destinations like Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan and Syria, and will reinforce the U.S. policy of not supporting China’s military modernization program.

"…these reforms will focus our resources on the threats that matter most, and help us work more effectively with our allies in the field. They’ll bring transparency and coherence to a field of regulation which has long been lacking both. And by enhancing the competitiveness of our manufacturing and technology sectors, they’ll help us not just increase exports and create jobs, but strengthen our national security as well." -President Barack Obama