Central News Hub

Month: December 2024

Energy to bind India, Lanka, UAE

Modi and Lankan President Dissanayake agreed to take steps towards the implementation of the solar power project in Sampur and augment its capacity as per the requirements of Lanka as part of energy development…reports Asian Lite News

India and Sri Lanka are discussing cooperation between them and the UAE to implement a multi-product pipeline from India to Sri Lanka for the supply of affordable and reliable energy. This is among energy projects at various stages of consideration between the two countries.

According to a joint statement issued after talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the two countries agreed to take steps towards the implementation of the solar power project in Sampur and further augment its capacity as per the requirements of Sri Lanka as part of energy development.

“Emphasizing the need for reliable, affordable and timely energy resources for ensuring energy security and meeting basic needs of the people, both leaders underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation in the energy sector and facilitation towards timely implementation of ongoing energy cooperation projects between India and Sri Lanka,” the statement said.

In this regard, the leaders agreed to continue consideration of the several proposals which are in different stages of discussion “including supply of LNG from India to Sri Lanka, establishment of a high-capacity power grid interconnection between India and Sri Lanka and cooperation amongst India, Sri Lanka and UAE to implement a multi-product pipeline from India to Sri Lanka for supply of affordable and reliable energy”.

The also agreed to continue consideration of joint development of offshore wind power potential in Palk Straits, while prioritizing environmental protection including fauna and flora.

“Acknowledging the ongoing cooperation in the development of Trincomalee Tank Farms, both leaders decided to support the development of Trincomalee as a regional energy and industrial hub,” the release said.

The two leaders agreed to expedite the implementation of the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity (SLUDI) project to aid the country in its efforts to improve delivery of government services to the public. PM Modi and Dissanayake agreed to collaborate on avenues to fully roll out Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in Sri Lanka with assistance from India.

Both leaders agreed to establish a Joint Working Group to explore the implementation of a DPI stack in Sri Lanka based on experience and systems already established in India, including advancing ongoing technical discussions on the implementation of DigiLocker in Sri Lanka.

The two leaders agreed to promote digital financial transactions by extending the use of UPI digital payments for the benefit of both countries and in keeping with payment systems-related regulatory guidelines of both countries.

The two leaders agreed to continue bilateral exchanges to garner learnings from India’s Aadhaar platform, GeM portal, PM Gati Shakti digital platform, digitized customs and other taxation procedures, with a view to exploring the benefits of establishing equivalent systems in Sri Lanka.

With a view to supporting human-resource development and promoting innovation and technology in Sri Lanka, PM Modi and Dissanayake agreed to seek to expand collaboration in research and development in sectors like agriculture, aquaculture, digital economy, health and other areas of mutual interest.

The two leaders agreed to explore cooperation between educational institutions of India and Sri Lanka. They expressed willingness to foster coooperation between Start-up India and Information Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA), including for mentorship for Sri Lankan start-ups.

Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake appreciated the ongoing collaboration for the development of the dairy sector in Sri Lanka with the aim of promoting self-sufficiency and nutritional security.

“Noting President Disanayaka’s emphasis on agricultural modernization, the two leaders agreed to establish a Joint Working Group to examine possibilities for the comprehensive development of the agricultural sector in Sri Lanka,” the joint statement said.

Dissanayake reiterated Sri Lanka’s stance on not allowing its territory to be used in any way that could compromise India’s security.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in ‘India – Sri Lanka Joint Statement: Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future’ said, “Recognizing shared security interests of India and Sri Lanka, both leaders acknowledged the importance of regular dialogue based on mutual trust and transparency and giving primacy to each other’s security concerns. As natural partners, both leaders underscored the common challenges faced by the two countries in the Indian Ocean Region and reaffirmed their commitment to work together in countering traditional and non-traditional threats as well as to ensure a free, open, safe and secure Indian Ocean Region.”

The MEA added, “India being Sri Lanka’s closest maritime neighbour, President Disanayaka reiterated Sri Lanka’s stated position of not permitting its territory to be used in any manner inimical to the security of India as well as towards regional stability.”

Expressing satisfaction at the ongoing defence cooperation in training, exchange programmes, ship visits, bilateral exercises and assistance to augment defence capabilities, PM Narendra Modi and President Dissanayake agreed to advance maritime and security collaboration. (ANI)

ALSO READ: A Taste of India, in UK: Godawan Artisanal Indian Single Malt

17 December 2024
Trump Plans Peace Talks on Ukraine War

Trump has been highly critical of billions of dollars of aid that Joe Biden’s administration provided to Kyiv to battle Moscow’s invasion….reports Asian Lite news

Donald Trump said on Monday that he would speak to the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and that of Russia Vladimir Putin to end the “carnage” of nearly three years of war, as the Kremlin leader lauded Russian army successes on the ground.

Both sides have rushed to gain an advantage on the battlefield ahead of Trump entering the White House in January, and there has been some alarm in Ukraine that it will be forced to make territorial concessions in exchange for peace.

Trump has been highly critical of billions of dollars of aid that Joe Biden’s administration provided to Kyiv to battle Moscow’s invasion.

He spoke on Monday at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida as Putin hailed his army’s accelerating advance in Ukraine in what he called a “landmark” year.

“We’ll be talking to President Putin, and we’ll be talking to the representatives, Zelensky and representatives from Ukraine,” Trump said.

“We gotta stop it, it’s carnage,” he added, referring to the war.

Trump has repeatedly claimed he could swiftly end the conflict but has not provided concrete details on how.

His comments on Monday come after he called for an “immediate ceasefire” earlier this month and said “negotiations should begin”.

Trump met Zelensky in a meeting hosted by French leader Emmanuel Macron in Paris this month, after which the Ukrainian leader said he had argued that Kyiv is seeking an “enduring” peace and “security guarantees”.

Poland, Ukraine’s ally and neighbour, urged Monday that Kyiv should not be “forced” into peace talks, with its Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski saying that it was “the aggressor and not the victim should be encouraged and forced” to do so.

Ukraine is entering another winter of war as its energy grid is already badly damaged by Russian attacks and Trump spoke as Russian forces were almost at the gates of the key eastern city of Pokrovsk.

Addressing top military generals in an end-of-year meeting on Monday, Putin struck a defiant and optimistic tone, claiming his troops had the upper hand across the entire front line.

The comments come with Russia’s army advancing across eastern Ukraine at their fastest pace since the first weeks of the offensive.

“Russian troops are firmly holding the strategic initiative along the entire line of contact,” Putin said.

He said Russia’s army had seized 189 Ukrainian settlements this year and called 2024 a “landmark year in the achievement of the goals of the special military operation”, using Moscow’s official language for its campaign.

Speaking after Putin at the same meeting, Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov said Russia’s troops had seized a total of almost 4,500 square km (1,737 square miles) of Ukrainian territory in this year and were now gaining around 30 square km a day.

Russia’s army said on Monday that it had captured another small village in the Donetsk region as part of its latest advance.

Putin has been accused by Kyiv and the West of escalating the nearly three-year conflict in recent weeks.

On Monday, 10 countries and the EU called North Korea’s growing involvement the conflict a “dangerous expansion” of the fighting “with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security”.

The Foreign Ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Britain, the United States and the high representative of the European Union signed the release.

It came after Ukraine said it had killed or wounded at least 30 North Korean troops fighting alongside Russia’s soldiers in the Kursk border region, where Kyiv is mounting an offensive.

The US, South Korea and Ukraine have accused North Korea of sending more than 10,000 soldiers to support Russia.

Putin on Monday also defended Russia’s vast defence and security spending on the conflict, amid mounting economic uncertainty at home.

Military spending has surpassed six per cent of GDP, while overall defence and security outlays are almost nine per cent.

“It is not, strangely enough, the biggest expenditure in the world, even among countries that do not have any armed conflict,” Putin, an ex-KGB spy in power for the last quarter of a century, said.

“Nevertheless, it is a lot of money, and here we need to use it very rationally,” he said.

ALSO READ: US unveils $500m arms package for Ukraine

17 December 2024
US health insurance firms accused of multiple denials, delays

Insurers also have been increasingly demanding that doctors obtain approval before providing treatment, similar surveys show, causing delays in patient care that the American Medical Association says are “devastating.”

Every year, US health insurance companies deny tens of millions of patient claims for medical expense reimbursements, and the tide of those denials has been rising.

The Washington Post on Monday cited surveys of doctors and other healthcare providers.

Insurers also have been increasingly demanding that doctors obtain approval before providing treatment, similar surveys show, causing delays in patient care that the American Medical Association says are “devastating,” Xinhua news agency reported.

While several states have passed legislation trying to restrict such practices amid growing public anger, insurers defend the coverage denials and “pre-authorisation” requirements. They say those measures are meant to contain rising costs and that their methods comply with federal and state regulations.

“Most frustrating, according to patient advocates, is that insurance companies often act without explanation, sending denial letters that offer only sparse justifications,” said the report.

The patient “gets a cryptic message saying ‘it’s not medically necessary,’ but without any other explanation,” said Elisabeth Benjamin, a vice president at the Community Service Society in New York, which runs a program that helps consumers appeal denials.

“People are mad because it’s all a big secret,” Benjamin said. “It’s unfair for us as a society, on something that’s so visceral, to trust giant corporations that make money when they deny care. This is why people are so, so very angry.”

Exactly why and how often claims are being denied or medical procedures are getting early scrutiny is difficult to know. Nationally over the last five years, the rates of denial have been between 14 per cent and 16 per cent, according to data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Insurance industry representatives blame doctors for many of the denials, saying they botch the required paperwork by submitting inaccurate, incomplete or ineligible claims information.

17 December 2024
Godawan Artisanal Indian Single Malt Lands in London

Godawan Artisanal Indian Single Malt has officially landed in London! The entry is already creating a buzz with whisky enthusiasts in the UK, as the premium spirit is known for its seamless blend of Indian heritage and sustainability, as well as its 70+ awards. Godawan is now ready to delight connoisseurs with its distinctive character and purpose-driven ethos.

Crafted by Diageo India’s Good Craft Co., Godawan reflects the brand’s philosophy of mindful luxury. Distilled in Rajasthan, at one of Asia’s most sustainable distilleries, the whisky uses six-row Indian barley, a grain prized for its robust flavour. The arid desert climate accelerates the ageing process, lending the whisky a unique depth and complexity.

What truly sets Godawan apart is its commitment to conservation. Named after the Great Indian Bustard, a critically endangered bird, the brand channels a portion of proceeds from every bottle sold toward habitat preservation for this majestic species. As Vikram Damodaran, Chief Innovation Officer at Diageo India, aptly describes Godawan – “a rare spirit crafted with a unique purpose.”

Whisky lovers can indulge in two of the brand’s signature expressions. 01 Rich & Rounded is ideal for those who enjoy sweeter profiles, featuring notes of caramel, raisin, and apricot enhanced by PX sherry and American oak casks. Its smooth, dessert-like profile makes it a delightful sipping choice. In contrast, 02 Fruit & Spice is bold and layered, with vibrant hints of ginger, coconut, and roasted coffee imparted by virgin oak and cherrywood maturation. Together, these expressions cater to a wide range of palates while showcasing Indian artistry.

At £65, Godawan invites drinkers to savour a whisky that transcends taste, combining tradition, innovation, and sustainability. Available across London, it offers a sip of Indian craftsmanship that’s making waves worldwide. With every glass, whisky lovers can experience a spirit that celebrates artistry while contributing to a greater cause.

ALSO READ: Arq Mithai: Artisanal Happiness

16 December 2024
A Taste of India, in UK: Godawan Artisanal Indian Single Malt

The UK whisky scene is welcoming an exciting new entrant—Godawan Artisanal Indian Single Malt. This exceptional whisky blends Indian heritage, sustainability and craftsmanship into a bold new offering for London.

Whisky enthusiasts can experience two distinct expressions, each crafted to cater to varied palates. 01 Rich & Rounded is a smooth, dessert-like whisky with notes of caramel, raisin, and apricot, aged in PX sherry and American oak casks. Its velvety profile makes it perfect for those who prefer sweeter, softer flavours. In contrast, 02 Fruit & Spice offers a vibrant, layered experience, with hints of sweet ginger, coconut, and roasted coffee imparted by virgin oak and cherrywood cask aging. Both expressions encapsulate a balance of tradition and innovation, inviting drinkers to embark on a flavourful journey into Indian heritage.

Crafted by Diageo India’s Good Craft Co., Godawan exemplifies mindful luxury. Distilled in one of Asia’s most sustainable facilities and made using locally sourced six-row Indian barley, Godawan goes beyond being just a whisky—it represents purpose-driven craftsmanship. The whisky takes its name from the Great Indian Bustard, a critically endangered bird that symbolises India’s ecological heritage, and actively supports the conservation of the iconic bird, contributing proceeds from every bottle sold toward protecting its habitat. This ethos of blending luxury with purpose is central to the brand. A testament to this philosophy was the release of Godawan 100, a launch limited to just 100 bottles, honouring the estimated number of surviving Great Indian Bustards.

Now available across London at £65, the award-winning Godawanpromises to capture the attention of seasoned connoisseurs and newcomers alike. As Vikram Damodaran, Chief Innovation Officer at Diageo India, notes, “Godawan is bringing a taste of luxury and artistry to people across the world.” Whether enjoyed neat or with a twist, this artisanal single malt is an invitation to explore Indian heritage and make a meaningful impact with every sip.

ALSO READ: Rampur Distillery Launches Rampur Barrel Blush Indian Single Malt Whisky

16 December 2024
Hostage Deal Closer Than Ever: Israel

The current deal under discussion includes multiple stages, Katz said, without providing further details…reports Asian Lite News

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said Monday that Israel and Hamas are “closer than ever” to reaching a ceasefire-for-hostage deal, Israel’s state-owned Kan TV News reported.

Speaking at a closed session of the Israeli parliament’s Security Committee, Katz said, “We are the closest we’ve been to a hostage deal since the previous one,” referring to an agreement in November-December 2023 that secured the release of 81 Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a temporary truce and the release of 240 Palestinian prisoners.

Katz said that the “Philadelphi Corridor,” a strip along the border between the southern Gaza Strip and Egypt, and the “Netzarim Corridor,” which divides Gaza into northern and southern sectors, “will not pose an obstacle to the execution of the deal.”

“There will be an overwhelming majority in the Cabinet and government for a hostage release deal,” Katz added. However, key members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right coalition have previously stated their opposition to an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, even under a deal — a key demand by Hamas.

Negotiations mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have produced several proposals over the past year. However, Netanyahu’s demand to maintain a military presence in the Philadelphi and Netzarim corridors, alongside repeated Israeli rejections of a complete end to the war, has slowed progress.

The current deal under discussion includes multiple stages, Katz said, without providing further details, Xinhua news agency reported.

Earlier Monday, a senior Hamas official told the Saudi channel Asharq News that the two conflicting sides are “closer than ever” to reaching an agreement. The official claimed that Hamas and other factions had shown “great flexibility” in agreeing to a gradual cessation of hostilities and a withdrawal based on an agreed timeline. He urged the US administration to pressure Netanyahu to finalize the deal.

ALSO READ: Trump admin eyes tougher penalties for cyberattacks

16 December 2024
Trump admin eyes tougher penalties for cyberattacks

The White House confirmed that at least eight U.S. telecom and infrastructure firms were compromised, with significant amounts of American metadata stolen. ..reports Asian Lite News

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s pick for national security adviser Mike Waltz, said that the upcoming administration will explore strategies to increase penalties for private actors and adversarial nations responsible for cyberattacks against America.

Waltz’s remarks follow U.S. claims of a major Chinese cyber espionage operation, Salt Typhoon, which allegedly intercepted phone calls of top American political figures.

The White House confirmed that at least eight U.S. telecom and infrastructure firms were compromised, with significant amounts of American metadata stolen.

While Waltz did not outline specific actions against Salt Typhoon, he emphasized the need for a more aggressive stance, saying Washington has focused too much on defence and not enough on offensive measures.

“We must impose higher costs on those who steal our data and spy on us,” Waltz stated on CBS News’ Face the Nation. He also highlighted the potential role of the U.S. tech industry in both strengthening defences and making adversaries more vulnerable.

Chinese officials have denied the allegations, labelling them as disinformation and reaffirming Beijing’s opposition to cyberattacks and theft.

ALSO READ: Trump’s Bold Diplomacy with Xi

16 December 2024
US delivers first batch of Abrams tanks to Taiwan

This marks the first new tank acquisition for Taiwan in three decades, with the remaining units expected by 2025 and 2026….reports Asian Lite News

Taiwan has taken delivery of 38 advanced M1A2 Abrams battle tanks from the United States, marking a significant step in modernising its military capabilities amidst growing tensions with China.

The tanks, part of a 108-unit order placed in 2019, arrived on the island late Sunday and were transferred to an army training base in Hsinchu, the defence ministry confirmed on Monday.

This marks the first new tank acquisition for Taiwan in three decades, with the remaining units expected by 2025 and 2026.

The Abrams tanks, renowned for their durability and advanced features, represent a major upgrade for Taiwan’s military.

The island’s current tank fleet consists of around 1,000 aging Taiwan-made CM 11 Brave Tiger and US-made M60A3 tanks, which are becoming increasingly outdated.

The procurement of the Abrams tanks, at a cost exceeding $1.2 billion, underscores Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to enhance its defence posture against the looming threat of a Chinese invasion.

China, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province, has intensified military pressure on the self-governed island, frequently deploying warships and fighter jets near its borders.

Last week, Taiwan reported large-scale maritime drills by China, involving approximately 90 ships simulating blockades and attacks on foreign vessels.

Taiwan remains heavily reliant on US arms sales to bolster its defence, despite maintaining a robust homegrown defence industry.

However, a backlog in US arms deliveries, exacerbated by Covid-19 supply chain disruptions and priority shipments to Ukraine and Israel, has delayed some orders.

The backlog now exceeds $21 billion, according to the Cato Institute.

In response to rising tensions, Taiwan has ramped up its military spending, allocating a record $19 billion for defence in 2024.

The investment reflects Taiwan’s strategic focus on fortifying its defences and maintaining readiness against potential aggression from China.

ALSO READ: Trump’s Bold Diplomacy with Xi

16 December 2024
Trump, Netanyahu talk Iran over phone

Netanyahu reiterated that recent airstrikes against Syrian military sites were carried out to ensure that the weapons would not be used against Israel in the future…reports Asian Lite News

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with US President-elect Donald Trump about Israel’s determination to continue acting against Iran and its armed proxies whenever they try to harm the Jewish state, the premier said in a video statement.

Netanyahu said on Sunday evening that it was a “very friendly, very warm, and very important conversation” about the need for Israel to “complete its victory”.

“We are committed to preventing Hezbollah from rearming,” he said.

“This is an ongoing test for Israel, we must meet it — and we will meet it. I say to Hezbollah and Iran in no uncertain terms — to prevent you from harming us, we will continue to act against you as much as necessary, in every arena and at all times.”

Netanyahu reiterated that recent airstrikes against Syrian military sites were carried out to ensure that the weapons would not be used against Israel in the future. Israel also hit arms supply routes to Hezbollah, he said.

“We have no interest in a conflict with Syria,” Netanyahu said firmly.

“We will determine Israel’s policy toward Syria according to the emerging reality on the ground.”

“Syria is not the same Syria,” he said, arguing that Israel is changing the Middle East.

“Lebanon is not the same Lebanon, Gaza is not the same Gaza, and the leader of the axis — Iran — is not the same Iran.”

During the conversation with Trump, Netanyahu pointed to shifts in the Middle East, claiming that Israeli operations in Lebanon, Gaza, Yemen, and Syria have diminished Iran’s influence over the past year.

“Within a few days, we destroyed capabilities that the Assad regime had built over decades,” Netanyahu noted, referring to a series of intense Israeli airstrikes during the past few days following the collapse of the Assad government in Syria on December 8.

He added that the strikes aimed to prevent weapons from being used against Israel or transferred from Syria to Hezbollah.

Netanyahu also said his conversation with Trump included efforts to secure the release of around 100 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.

Israeli state broadcaster Kan TV reported progress in negotiations but noted that no breakthrough had been reached as of Sunday.

ALSO READ: Xi may skip Trump’s inauguration ceremony

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16 December 2024
Trump picks Nunes to head Intelligence Advisory Board

Nunes was first elected to public office as one of California’s youngest community college trustees in state history at the age of 23….reports Asian Lite News

President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Truth Social CEO Devin Nunes as Chairman of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board.

Trump emphasised Nunes’ experience as the former Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee and his pivotal role in exposing the Russian interference in the 2016 US elections as key qualifications for the role.

Sharing a post on the Truth Social platform, Trump wrote, “I am pleased to announce that I will appoint Truth Social CEO Devin Nunes as Chairman of the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board, which consists of distinguished citizens from outside of the Federal Government.”

“While continuing his leadership of Trump Media & Technology Group, Devin will draw on his experience as former Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, and his key role in exposing the Russia, Russia, Russia Hoax, to provide me with independent assessments of the effectiveness and propriety of the US Intelligence Community’s activities. Congratulations Devin,” the post added.

Born on October 1, 1973 in Tulare, California, his family is of Portuguese descent, having emigrated from the Azores to California. Nunes graduated from Tulare Union High School and was the second Member of Congress to attend Tulare Union, following Olympic gold medalist Bob Mathias, who served in the House of Representatives from 1967 to 1975.

After associate’s work at College of the Sequoias, Nunes graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he received a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business and a master’s degree in agriculture.

Nunes was first elected to public office as one of California’s youngest community college trustees in state history at the age of 23. As a member of the College of the Sequoias Board from 1996 to 2002, he was an advocate for distance learning and the expansion of programs available to high school students.

In 2001, he was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve as California State Director for the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development section. He left this post to run for California’s 21st congressional district and now serves in the 22nd district as a result of redistricting in 2010.

Notably, the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board (PIAB), with its component Intelligence Oversight Board (IOB), is an independent element within the Executive Office of the President.

The President’s Intelligence Advisory Board assists the President by providing the President with an independent source of advice on the effectiveness with which the Intelligence Community is meeting the nation’s intelligence needs, and the vigor and insight with which the community plans for the future. The Board has access to all information needed to perform its functions and has direct access to the President.

Grenell named Presidential Envoy for Special Missions

Trump announced the appointment of Richard Grenell as the Presidential Envoy for Special Missions.

Trump also said that Grenell will work in some of the “hottest spots,” including Venezuela and North Korea.

In a statement, Trump said, “I am pleased to announce Richard Allen Grenell as our Presidential Envoy for Special Missions. Ric will work in some of the hottest spots around the World, including Venezuela and North Korea.”

Trump also highlighted Grenell’s extensive work experience, noting his previous roles as the US Ambassador to Germany, Acting Director of National Intelligence, and Presidential Envoy for Kosovo-Serbia negotiations and said that Grenell will continue his fight for “Peace through Strength.”

“In my first term, Ric was the United States Ambassador to Germany, Acting Director of National Intelligence, and Presidential Envoy for Kosovo-Serbia Negotiations. Previously, he spent eight years in the United Nations Security Council, working with North Korea, and developments in numerous other countries. Ric will continue to fight for Peace through Strength, and always put AMERICA FIRST,” the statement added.

Notably, Grenell earned a BA from Evangel College and a MPA from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.

He has served as the primary communications adviser for public officials at the local, state, federal, and international levels, as well as for a Fortune 300-ranked company. Grenell has also worked extensively with clients based in the US as well as around the world and throughout Europe, according to the US Department of State.

Grenell was also the longest-serving US spokesman in history at the United Nations in New York (2001-2008), where he was part of the negotiation team with the German delegation on a myriad of global issues, including Iran and North Korea sanctions, UN reform and peacekeeping operations.

Previously, Grenell served as Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications for DaVita, El Segundo, California (2008-2009), Press Secretary, Mayor of San Diego, California (1998-2000), Press Secretary, State of New York Division of Lottery, Albany, New York (1995-1997), Press Secretary, House of Representatives, Washington, DC (1993-1995), Assistant, Campaign Division, National Republican Congressional Committee, Washington, D.C. (1993), Coalitions Coordinator for the Bush-Quayle Re-election campaign, Washington, DC (1992) and Administrator, American Arbitration Association (1989-1991).

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16 December 2024