Portraits of Diplomacy: 2023

A Photographic Journey with Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken

Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled more than 380,000 kilometers in 2023 to support international partnerships and work toward a more peaceful and prosperous world.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken traveled more than 380,000 kilometers in 2023 to support international partnerships and work toward a more peaceful and prosperous world.

5 men walking on a tarmac away from a helicopter

The secretary visited earthquake-devastated communities in Türkiye on February 19, alongside Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, then Türkiye’s foreign minister. The U.S. humanitarian response included millions of dollars in aid and support for search and rescue efforts.   

5 men walking on a tarmac away from a helicopter

The secretary visited earthquake-devastated communities in Türkiye on February 19, alongside Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, then Türkiye’s foreign minister. The U.S. humanitarian response included millions of dollars in aid and support for search and rescue efforts. 

The secretary visited earthquake-devastated communities in Türkiye on February 19, alongside Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, then Türkiye’s foreign minister. The U.S. humanitarian response included millions of dollars in aid and support for search and rescue efforts.   

The secretary visited earthquake-devastated communities in Türkiye on February 19, alongside Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, then Türkiye’s foreign minister. The U.S. humanitarian response included millions of dollars in aid and support for search and rescue efforts. 

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken calls America’s partnerships its greatest strategic asset. In 2023, he traveled more than 380,000 kilometers and visited over two dozen countries to meet with our nation’s partners. He pledged solidarity with allies and offered assistance after disasters.

As the State Department's photographer assigned to the secretary, Chuck Kennedy traveled with him. The upwards of 100,000 pictures he took chronicle the secretary’s mission to safeguard our country’s partnerships and forge new ones.

These images recall a challenging, yet collaborative year. We share a few of the most memorable moments of 2023 with you.

NOTE: Click on the smaller images in the galleries below for full-screen display and the ability to click or swipe through each image. For optimal viewing, rotate your phone or tablet horizontally.

Secretary Blinken leaning back in chair to talk to Linda Thomas-Greenfield

The secretary consults U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield during a U.N. Security Council meeting in New York on February 24.

The secretary consults U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield during a U.N. Security Council meeting in New York on February 24.

Secretary Blinken emerging from an auto rickshaw

During a trip to India for a G20 meeting, the secretary, seen stepping from an auto rickshaw March 3, stopped to greet U.S. embassy staff in New Delhi.

During a trip to India for a G20 meeting, the secretary, seen stepping from an auto rickshaw March 3, stopped to greet U.S. embassy staff in New Delhi.

People walking out of an air terminal

With a hectic schedule of engagements, the secretary may hold meetings while on the move. Above, Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen speaks with Blinken on the way to the tarmac.

With a hectic schedule of engagements, the secretary may hold meetings while on the move. Above, Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen speaks with Blinken on the way to the tarmac.

Secretary Blinken holding a child on his lap as other children stand nearby

Children of U.S. embassy staff get to see the world but also grow up far from home. On March 16, the secretary met with the children of embassy staff in Niger to show appreciation for their support for U.S. diplomacy.

Children of U.S. embassy staff get to see the world but also grow up far from home. On March 16, the secretary met with the children of embassy staff in Niger to show appreciation for their support for U.S. diplomacy.

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Secretary Blinken leaning back in chair to talk to Linda Thomas-Greenfield

The secretary consults U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield during a U.N. Security Council meeting in New York on February 24.

The secretary consults U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield during a U.N. Security Council meeting in New York on February 24.

Secretary Blinken emerging from an auto rickshaw

During a trip to India for a G20 meeting, the secretary, seen stepping from an auto rickshaw March 3, stopped to greet U.S. embassy staff in New Delhi.

During a trip to India for a G20 meeting, the secretary, seen stepping from an auto rickshaw March 3, stopped to greet U.S. embassy staff in New Delhi.

People walking out of an air terminal

With a hectic schedule of engagements, the secretary may hold meetings while on the move. Above, Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen speaks with Blinken on the way to the tarmac.

With a hectic schedule of engagements, the secretary may hold meetings while on the move. Above, Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen speaks with Blinken on the way to the tarmac.

Secretary Blinken holding a child on his lap as other children stand nearby

Children of U.S. embassy staff get to see the world but also grow up far from home. On March 16, the secretary met with the children of embassy staff in Niger to show appreciation for their support for U.S. diplomacy.

Children of U.S. embassy staff get to see the world but also grow up far from home. On March 16, the secretary met with the children of embassy staff in Niger to show appreciation for their support for U.S. diplomacy.

People sitting at a curved table seen through a window on a door that reads “Cabine d’interpretation”

The U.S. and its NATO allies share a common vision of democracy and freedom. Above, the secretary works with NATO allies in Brussels on April 5.

The U.S. and its NATO allies share a common vision of democracy and freedom. Above, the secretary works with NATO allies in Brussels on April 5.

Secretary Blinken testifying before Congress

When the traveling stops, the work continues. Back in Washington, on March 22, the secretary testifies before the House Foreign Affairs and Appropriations committees on Capitol Hill.

When the traveling stops, the work continues. Back in Washington, on March 22, the secretary testifies before the House Foreign Affairs and Appropriations committees on Capitol Hill.

Secretary Blinken greeting children in a convent

Fortunately, diplomacy isn’t always hard work. A weeklong trip in April spanned over 30,578 kilometers but left time for a few high-fives at the St. Paul de Chartres Convent in Hanoi, Vietnam, on April 15.

Fortunately, diplomacy isn’t always hard work. A weeklong trip in April spanned over 30,578 kilometers but left time for a few high-fives at the St. Paul de Chartres Convent in Hanoi, Vietnam, on April 15.

Secretary Blinken writing at a desk on a plane

Long flights don’t necessarily mean time for rest. While traveling home from Japan, the secretary received information from the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum about the conflict in Sudan.

Long flights don’t necessarily mean time for rest. While traveling home from Japan, the secretary received information from the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum about the conflict in Sudan.

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Secretary Blinken testifying before Congress

When the traveling stops, the work continues. Back in Washington, on March 22, the secretary testifies before the House Foreign Affairs and Appropriations committees on Capitol Hill.

When the traveling stops, the work continues. Back in Washington, on March 22, the secretary testifies before the House Foreign Affairs and Appropriations committees on Capitol Hill.

Secretary Blinken greeting children in a convent

Fortunately, diplomacy isn’t always hard work. A weeklong trip in April spanned over 30,578 kilometers but left time for a few high-fives at the St. Paul de Chartres Convent in Hanoi, Vietnam, on April 15.

Fortunately, diplomacy isn’t always hard work. A weeklong trip in April spanned over 30,578 kilometers but left time for a few high-fives at the St. Paul de Chartres Convent in Hanoi, Vietnam, on April 15.

Secretary Blinken writing at a desk on a plane

Long flights don’t necessarily mean time for rest. While traveling home from Japan, the secretary received information from the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum about the conflict in Sudan.

Long flights don’t necessarily mean time for rest. While traveling home from Japan, the secretary received information from the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum about the conflict in Sudan.

4 people sitting at a table

Back at the State Department operations center in Washington, the secretary and top aides Molly Phee, John Bass, and Tom Sullivan track reports of violence in Khartoum, Sudan, on April 22.

Back at the State Department operations center in Washington, the secretary and top aides Molly Phee, John Bass, and Tom Sullivan track reports of violence in Khartoum, Sudan, on April 22.

Secretary Blinken looking at his notes while Diplomatic Security agent stands in doorway

In Denver, the secretary finds a quiet moment to review his notes before speaking to the Cities Summit of the Americas on April 28.

In Denver, the secretary finds a quiet moment to review his notes before speaking to the Cities Summit of the Americas on April 28.

Projection screen showing Secretary Blinken speaking while security officers stand underneath

Blinken delivers the closing keynote address at the Cities Summit of the Americas at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver on April 28.

Blinken delivers the closing keynote address at the Cities Summit of the Americas at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver on April 28.

2 students giving Secretary Blinken tour of college campus

The secretary visited the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University, both in Atlanta, on May 6. Recruiting from HBCUs helps the State Department build a talented and diverse workforce.

The secretary visited the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University, both in Atlanta, on May 6. Recruiting from HBCUs helps the State Department build a talented and diverse workforce.

People giving standing ovation to a seated woman

Wendy Sherman served under three presidents and five secretaries of state before retiring this year. On May 11, Blinken joined senior staff in a standing ovation for the outgoing Deputy Secretary of State.

Wendy Sherman served under three presidents and five secretaries of state before retiring this year. On May 11, Blinken joined senior staff in a standing ovation for the outgoing Deputy Secretary of State.

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Secretary Blinken looking at his notes while Diplomatic Security agent stands in doorway

In Denver, the secretary finds a quiet moment to review his notes before speaking to the Cities Summit of the Americas on April 28.

In Denver, the secretary finds a quiet moment to review his notes before speaking to the Cities Summit of the Americas on April 28.

Projection screen showing Secretary Blinken speaking while security officers stand underneath

Blinken delivers the closing keynote address at the Cities Summit of the Americas at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver on April 28.

Blinken delivers the closing keynote address at the Cities Summit of the Americas at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver on April 28.

2 students giving Secretary Blinken tour of college campus

The secretary visited the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University, both in Atlanta, on May 6. Recruiting from HBCUs helps the State Department build a talented and diverse workforce.

The secretary visited the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University, both in Atlanta, on May 6. Recruiting from HBCUs helps the State Department build a talented and diverse workforce.

People giving standing ovation to a seated woman

Wendy Sherman served under three presidents and five secretaries of state before retiring this year. On May 11, Blinken joined senior staff in a standing ovation for the outgoing Deputy Secretary of State.

Wendy Sherman served under three presidents and five secretaries of state before retiring this year. On May 11, Blinken joined senior staff in a standing ovation for the outgoing Deputy Secretary of State.

President Biden and Secretary Blinken smiling while walking in the Rose Garden at the White House

As Secretary of State, Blinken continues a long working relationship with President Biden that includes work on the staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and in the Vice President’s office. Above, the longtime colleagues head to welcome guests at the White House on June 13.

As Secretary of State, Blinken continues a long working relationship with President Biden that includes work on the staff of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and in the Vice President’s office. Above, the longtime colleagues head to welcome guests at the White House on June 13.
Secretary Blinken standing at a lectern while speaking to a room full of people

In a major speech in Helsinki on June 2, the secretary welcomed Finland as NATO's newest member and promised continued support for Ukraine.

In a major speech in Helsinki on June 2, the secretary welcomed Finland as NATO's newest member and promised continued support for Ukraine.

Group of people standing around Secretary Blinken

On June 20, Blinken caught up with the cast of the Netflix series, The Diplomat, at the U.S. Embassy in London. Actress Keri Russell (left) plays a U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom on the show.

On June 20, Blinken caught up with the cast of the Netflix series, The Diplomat, at the U.S. Embassy in London. Actress Keri Russell (left) plays a U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom on the show.

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Secretary Blinken standing at a lectern while speaking to a room full of people

In a major speech in Helsinki on June 2, the secretary welcomed Finland as NATO's newest member and promised continued support for Ukraine.

In a major speech in Helsinki on June 2, the secretary welcomed Finland as NATO's newest member and promised continued support for Ukraine.

Group of people standing around Secretary Blinken

On June 20, Blinken caught up with the cast of the Netflix series, The Diplomat, at the U.S. Embassy in London. Actress Keri Russell (left) plays a U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom on the show.

On June 20, Blinken caught up with the cast of the Netflix series, The Diplomat, at the U.S. Embassy in London. Actress Keri Russell (left) plays a U.S. ambassador to the United Kingdom on the show.

Secretary Blinken placing a wreath at the base of a statue

The secretary pays respects at Tonga's War Memorial in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, on July 26.

The secretary pays respects at Tonga's War Memorial in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, on July 26.

Secretary Blinken holding up a soccer jersey in front of soccer team

The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team gave the secretary an honorary soccer jersey during a meeting in Wellington, New Zealand, July 26.

The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team gave the secretary an honorary soccer jersey during a meeting in Wellington, New Zealand, July 26.

Secretary Blinken playing soccer with a group of women

The secretary joined a community soccer clinic July 27 in Wellington, New Zealand, as part of the FIFA Women's World Cup hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

The secretary joined a community soccer clinic July 27 in Wellington, New Zealand, as part of the FIFA Women's World Cup hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

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Secretary Blinken holding up a soccer jersey in front of soccer team

The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team gave the secretary an honorary soccer jersey during a meeting in Wellington, New Zealand, July 26.

The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team gave the secretary an honorary soccer jersey during a meeting in Wellington, New Zealand, July 26.

Secretary Blinken playing soccer with a group of women

The secretary joined a community soccer clinic July 27 in Wellington, New Zealand, as part of the FIFA Women's World Cup hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

The secretary joined a community soccer clinic July 27 in Wellington, New Zealand, as part of the FIFA Women's World Cup hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

Secretary Blinken walking on a train platform with staff surrounding him

The secretary took an overnight train from Poland to Kyiv, Ukraine, on September 5, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and pledged continued U.S. support.

The secretary took an overnight train from Poland to Kyiv, Ukraine, on September 5, where he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and pledged continued U.S. support.
Secretary Blinken working at a table on a train

On the train to Kyiv, the secretary prepares for his visit to Ukraine, where he announced more than $1 billion in new aid to Ukraine.

On the train to Kyiv, the secretary prepares for his visit to Ukraine, where he announced more than $1 billion in new aid to Ukraine.

The backs of two men bowing heads in prayer at a cemetery

On September 6, Secretary Blinken joined Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in placing a memorial wreath at a cemetery in Kyiv.

On September 6, Secretary Blinken joined Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in placing a memorial wreath at a cemetery in Kyiv.

Hands resting on briefing books on a table

The secretary’s job requires in-depth knowledge of complex policies and global events. Briefing materials, such as these on board the train to Kyiv, Ukraine, on September 6, are always close at hand.

The secretary’s job requires in-depth knowledge of complex policies and global events. Briefing materials, such as these on board the train to Kyiv, Ukraine, on September 6, are always close at hand.

Secretary Blinken shaking hands with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy greets the secretary during their September 6 meeting in Kyiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy greets the secretary during their September 6 meeting in Kyiv.

People standing in an abandoned school

During his September trip to Ukraine, the secretary visited the Yahidne School, where Russia’s forces once held residents captive. The school in the village of Yahidne is now a museum.

During his September trip to Ukraine, the secretary visited the Yahidne School, where Russia’s forces once held residents captive. The school in the village of Yahidne is now a museum.

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Secretary Blinken working at a table on a train

On the train to Kyiv, the secretary prepares for his visit to Ukraine, where he announced more than $1 billion in new aid to Ukraine.

On the train to Kyiv, the secretary prepares for his visit to Ukraine, where he announced more than $1 billion in new aid to Ukraine.

The backs of two men bowing heads in prayer at a cemetery

On September 6, Secretary Blinken joined Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in placing a memorial wreath at a cemetery in Kyiv.

On September 6, Secretary Blinken joined Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in placing a memorial wreath at a cemetery in Kyiv.

Hands resting on briefing books on a table

The secretary’s job requires in-depth knowledge of complex policies and global events. Briefing materials, such as these on board the train to Kyiv, Ukraine, on September 6, are always close at hand.

The secretary’s job requires in-depth knowledge of complex policies and global events. Briefing materials, such as these on board the train to Kyiv, Ukraine, on September 6, are always close at hand.

Secretary Blinken shaking hands with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy greets the secretary during their September 6 meeting in Kyiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy greets the secretary during their September 6 meeting in Kyiv.

People standing in an abandoned school

During his September trip to Ukraine, the secretary visited the Yahidne School, where Russia’s forces once held residents captive. The school in the village of Yahidne is now a museum.

During his September trip to Ukraine, the secretary visited the Yahidne School, where Russia’s forces once held residents captive. The school in the village of Yahidne is now a museum.

Secretary Blinken using a speaker phone at a table set up for a meeting

On September 18, Blinken, seen in a conference room in New York, spoke by phone to people freed from captivity in Iran.

On September 18, Blinken, seen in a conference room in New York, spoke by phone to people freed from captivity in Iran.

4 people laughing in a room

Doing the same job, even for different countries, can bring people together. After a G7 dinner in New York on September 18, the secretary laughed with fellow foreign ministers Yōko Kamikawa of Japan, Mélanie Joly of Canada, and the United Kingdom’s James Cleverly.

Doing the same job, even for different countries, can bring people together. After a G7 dinner in New York on September 18, the secretary laughed with fellow foreign ministers Yōko Kamikawa of Japan, Mélanie Joly of Canada, and the United Kingdom’s James Cleverly.

Hillary Clinton standing with arms outstretched in front of her official portrait

Blinken attends the unveiling of former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s official portrait on September 26 at the State Department. Artist Steven Polson painted the portrait, as well as those of former secretaries Madeleine Albright, Colin Powell, and Condoleezza Rice. 

Blinken attends the unveiling of former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s official portrait on September 26 at the State Department. Artist Steven Polson painted the portrait, as well as those of former secretaries Madeleine Albright, Colin Powell, and Condoleezza Rice. 

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4 people laughing in a room

Doing the same job, even for different countries, can bring people together. After a G7 dinner in New York on September 18, the secretary laughed with fellow foreign ministers Yōko Kamikawa of Japan, Mélanie Joly of Canada, and the United Kingdom’s James Cleverly.

Doing the same job, even for different countries, can bring people together. After a G7 dinner in New York on September 18, the secretary laughed with fellow foreign ministers Yōko Kamikawa of Japan, Mélanie Joly of Canada, and the United Kingdom’s James Cleverly.

Hillary Clinton standing with arms outstretched in front of her official portrait

Blinken attends the unveiling of former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s official portrait on September 26 at the State Department. Artist Steven Polson painted the portrait, as well as those of former secretaries Madeleine Albright, Colin Powell, and Condoleezza Rice. 

Blinken attends the unveiling of former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton’s official portrait on September 26 at the State Department. Artist Steven Polson painted the portrait, as well as those of former secretaries Madeleine Albright, Colin Powell, and Condoleezza Rice. 

Secretary Blinken playing the guitar on stage

Celebrated musicians, including Dave Grohl and Herbie Hancock, performed at a September 27 launch event for the Department of State’s Global Music Diplomacy Initiative in Washington. The secretary also took a turn on stage, playing and singing a blues classic.

Celebrated musicians, including Dave Grohl and Herbie Hancock, performed at a September 27 launch event for the Department of State’s Global Music Diplomacy Initiative in Washington. The secretary also took a turn on stage, playing and singing a blues classic.
James Baker and Secretary Blinken embracing

Secretary Blinken participated in a fireside chat at the Baker Institute in Houston with former U.S. Secretary of State James Baker on October 3.

Secretary Blinken participated in a fireside chat at the Baker Institute in Houston with former U.S. Secretary of State James Baker on October 3.

Secretary Blinken walking on tarmac surrounded by his staff and Diplomatic Security agents

The secretary arrived in Mexico City October 4 for a meeting with Mexican officials, including Foreign Minister Alicia Bárcena.

The secretary arrived in Mexico City October 4 for a meeting with Mexican officials, including Foreign Minister Alicia Bárcena.

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James Baker and Secretary Blinken embracing

Secretary Blinken participated in a fireside chat at the Baker Institute in Houston with former U.S. Secretary of State James Baker on October 3.

Secretary Blinken participated in a fireside chat at the Baker Institute in Houston with former U.S. Secretary of State James Baker on October 3.

Secretary Blinken walking on tarmac surrounded by his staff and Diplomatic Security agents

The secretary arrived in Mexico City October 4 for a meeting with Mexican officials, including Foreign Minister Alicia Bárcena.

The secretary arrived in Mexico City October 4 for a meeting with Mexican officials, including Foreign Minister Alicia Bárcena.

Secretary Blinken standing over his desk

In the days following the terrorist attacks on Israel, Secretary Blinken, seen in his office October 11, spoke by phone with both President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In the days following the terrorist attacks on Israel, Secretary Blinken, seen in his office October 11, spoke by phone with both President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Secretary Blinken speaking to reporters on a tarmac

The secretary speaks to reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on October 11, before departing for Tel Aviv.

The secretary speaks to reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on October 11, before departing for Tel Aviv.

Secretary Blinken standing over two people sitting on a plane

Blinken confers with Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Tom Sullivan and Chief Speechwriter Nik Steinberg while en route to Tel Aviv on October 11.

Blinken confers with Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Tom Sullivan and Chief Speechwriter Nik Steinberg while en route to Tel Aviv on October 11.

Secretary Blinken hugging a woman

On October 12, the secretary met with survivors of the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel in Tel Aviv.

On October 12, the secretary met with survivors of the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel in Tel Aviv.

Secretary Blinken speaking on a phone as seen through a crack in an open door

Blinken speaks by phone with President Biden from Tel Aviv on October 12.

Blinken speaks by phone with President Biden from Tel Aviv on October 12.

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Secretary Blinken speaking to reporters on a tarmac

The secretary speaks to reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on October 11, before departing for Tel Aviv.

The secretary speaks to reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on October 11, before departing for Tel Aviv.

Secretary Blinken standing over two people sitting on a plane

Blinken confers with Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Tom Sullivan and Chief Speechwriter Nik Steinberg while en route to Tel Aviv on October 11.

Blinken confers with Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Tom Sullivan and Chief Speechwriter Nik Steinberg while en route to Tel Aviv on October 11.

Secretary Blinken hugging a woman

On October 12, the secretary met with survivors of the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel in Tel Aviv.

On October 12, the secretary met with survivors of the Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel in Tel Aviv.

Secretary Blinken speaking on a phone as seen through a crack in an open door

Blinken speaks by phone with President Biden from Tel Aviv on October 12.

Blinken speaks by phone with President Biden from Tel Aviv on October 12.

Secretary Blinken getting a tour of a mosque

Blinken toured the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque at the Abrahamic Family House, an interfaith community, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on October 14.

Blinken toured the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque at the Abrahamic Family House, an interfaith community, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on October 14.
Secretary Blinken putting on his shoes as a woman walks past an open doorway

A woman passes by as the secretary puts his shoes back on after visiting the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on October 14.

A woman passes by as the secretary puts his shoes back on after visiting the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on October 14.

Secretary Blinken walking on a red carpet on a tarmac at sunset while surrounded by Diplomatic Security agents

A stunning sunset casts shadows as the secretary arrived for a meeting in Cairo on October 15 before traveling on to Jordan. 

A stunning sunset casts shadows as the secretary arrived for a meeting in Cairo on October 15 before traveling on to Jordan. 

Prime Minister Netanyahu and Secretary Blinken walking in a street surrounded by staff and security

Secretary Blinken and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are on the move after a rocket warning interrupted their meeting at The Kirya, Israel’s Ministry of Defense complex in Tel Aviv, on October 16.

Secretary Blinken and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are on the move after a rocket warning interrupted their meeting at The Kirya, Israel’s Ministry of Defense complex in Tel Aviv, on October 16.

Secretary Blinken looking at a computer while seated with staff

Blinken works on alongside State Department Counselor Derek Chollet on October 16 in Tel Aviv.

Blinken works on alongside State Department Counselor Derek Chollet on October 16 in Tel Aviv.

Secretary Blinken meeting with President Abbas behind glass doors

Blinken met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Amman, Jordan, on October 17.

Blinken met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Amman, Jordan, on October 17.

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Secretary Blinken putting on his shoes as a woman walks past an open doorway

A woman passes by as the secretary puts his shoes back on after visiting the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on October 14.

A woman passes by as the secretary puts his shoes back on after visiting the Imam Al-Tayeb Mosque in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on October 14.

Secretary Blinken walking on a red carpet on a tarmac at sunset while surrounded by Diplomatic Security agents

A stunning sunset casts shadows as the secretary arrived for a meeting in Cairo on October 15 before traveling on to Jordan. 

A stunning sunset casts shadows as the secretary arrived for a meeting in Cairo on October 15 before traveling on to Jordan. 

Prime Minister Netanyahu and Secretary Blinken walking in a street surrounded by staff and security

Secretary Blinken and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are on the move after a rocket warning interrupted their meeting at The Kirya, Israel’s Ministry of Defense complex in Tel Aviv, on October 16.

Secretary Blinken and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are on the move after a rocket warning interrupted their meeting at The Kirya, Israel’s Ministry of Defense complex in Tel Aviv, on October 16.

Secretary Blinken looking at a computer while seated with staff

Blinken works on alongside State Department Counselor Derek Chollet on October 16 in Tel Aviv.

Blinken works on alongside State Department Counselor Derek Chollet on October 16 in Tel Aviv.

Secretary Blinken meeting with President Abbas behind glass doors

Blinken met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Amman, Jordan, on October 17.

Blinken met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Amman, Jordan, on October 17.

Secretary Blinken walking in the streets of New York City with a group of people surrounding him

Blinken visited news stations in New York City in February. It’s familiar territory for the secretary, a graduate of Columbia Law School in New York. 

Blinken visited news stations in New York City in February. It’s familiar territory for the secretary, a graduate of Columbia Law School in New York. 
4 people laughing

Blinken and his wife Evan Ryan (right) laugh with Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff (left) at a State Department luncheon on October 26. 

Blinken and his wife Evan Ryan (right) laugh with Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff (left) at a State Department luncheon on October 26. 

Foreign Minister Wang Yi talking with Secretary Blinken while 2 translators take notes

The secretary talks with the People’s Republic of China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi (center) at the State Department on October 26.

The secretary talks with the People’s Republic of China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi (center) at the State Department on October 26.

Secretary Blinken talking with Victoria Nuland in an office

During a visit from the secretary, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland displays her Halloween-themed attire in her State Department office on October 31.

During a visit from the secretary, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland displays her Halloween-themed attire in her State Department office on October 31.

People sitting around a table during a meeting

The secretary meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of his cabinet on November 3 in Tel Aviv.

The secretary meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of his cabinet on November 3 in Tel Aviv.

Group of people standing and talking

For U.S. officials, diplomacy is a team effort. During a break in a meeting with Israeli officials in Tel Aviv on November 3, Blinken received input from colleagues, including U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues David Satterfield (center).

For U.S. officials, diplomacy is a team effort. During a break in a meeting with Israeli officials in Tel Aviv on November 3, Blinken received input from colleagues, including U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues David Satterfield (center).

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4 people laughing

Blinken and his wife Evan Ryan (right) laugh with Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff (left) at a State Department luncheon on October 26. 

Blinken and his wife Evan Ryan (right) laugh with Vice President Kamala Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff (left) at a State Department luncheon on October 26. 

Foreign Minister Wang Yi talking with Secretary Blinken while 2 translators take notes

The secretary talks with the People’s Republic of China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi (center) at the State Department on October 26.

The secretary talks with the People’s Republic of China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi (center) at the State Department on October 26.

Secretary Blinken talking with Victoria Nuland in an office

During a visit from the secretary, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland displays her Halloween-themed attire in her State Department office on October 31.

During a visit from the secretary, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland displays her Halloween-themed attire in her State Department office on October 31.

People sitting around a table during a meeting

The secretary meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of his cabinet on November 3 in Tel Aviv.

The secretary meets with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and members of his cabinet on November 3 in Tel Aviv.

Group of people standing and talking

For U.S. officials, diplomacy is a team effort. During a break in a meeting with Israeli officials in Tel Aviv on November 3, Blinken received input from colleagues, including U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues David Satterfield (center).

For U.S. officials, diplomacy is a team effort. During a break in a meeting with Israeli officials in Tel Aviv on November 3, Blinken received input from colleagues, including U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues David Satterfield (center).

Secretary Blinken looking out a helicopter window

On November 5, Blinken flew to Baghdad to meet with the Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani after Iranian-allied militias attacked American troops in the region.

On November 5, Blinken flew to Baghdad to meet with the Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani after Iranian-allied militias attacked American troops in the region.

Secretary Blinken posing for a photograph with a group of people

Locally employed State Department staff are vital to the U.S. diplomatic efforts abroad. Above, Blinken meets with locally employed staff at the Ambassador’s Residence in Tokyo on November 8.

Locally employed State Department staff are vital to the U.S. diplomatic efforts abroad. Above, Blinken meets with locally employed staff at the Ambassador’s Residence in Tokyo on November 8.

Secretary Blinken sitting on a platform while talking to a child standing before him

Blinken took questions from a young audience member during a meet and greet in Seoul, South Korea, on November 9. The question gave the secretary a chance to share how living and studying abroad as a young person helped shape his life. 

Blinken took questions from a young audience member during a meet and greet in Seoul, South Korea, on November 9. The question gave the secretary a chance to share how living and studying abroad as a young person helped shape his life. 

Secretary Blinken speaking at a lectern

The secretary speaks at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministerial Meeting in San Francisco on November 14.

The secretary speaks at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministerial Meeting in San Francisco on November 14.

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Secretary Blinken posing for a photograph with a group of people

Locally employed State Department staff are vital to the U.S. diplomatic efforts abroad. Above, Blinken meets with locally employed staff at the Ambassador’s Residence in Tokyo on November 8.

Locally employed State Department staff are vital to the U.S. diplomatic efforts abroad. Above, Blinken meets with locally employed staff at the Ambassador’s Residence in Tokyo on November 8.

Secretary Blinken sitting on a platform while talking to a child standing before him

Blinken took questions from a young audience member during a meet and greet in Seoul, South Korea, on November 9. The question gave the secretary a chance to share how living and studying abroad as a young person helped shape his life. 

Blinken took questions from a young audience member during a meet and greet in Seoul, South Korea, on November 9. The question gave the secretary a chance to share how living and studying abroad as a young person helped shape his life. 

Secretary Blinken speaking at a lectern

The secretary speaks at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministerial Meeting in San Francisco on November 14.

The secretary speaks at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Ministerial Meeting in San Francisco on November 14.

Secretary Blinken boarding a military aircraft

The secretary departs Baghdad International Airport after meeting with the Iraqi prime minister on November 5.

The secretary departs Baghdad International Airport after meeting with the Iraqi prime minister on November 5.

Photographer: Chuck Kennedy
Photo Editor: Linda Epstein
Writer: Dave Reynolds
Copy editor: Kathleen Hendrix
Digital storyteller: Pierce McManus

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