Category Archives: diplomacy

Forging unity in foreign affairs: Diplomacy, security and national development

Tonight marks a milestone—40 years of the Philippine Council for Foreign Relations (PCFR). But this is more than a celebration of longevity. It is a reaffirmation of a shared commitment to the future of our nation in an ever-changing world.

The PCFR was born in 1985, in a time of national transition. Fifteen visionaries—among them

https://business.inquirer.net/550882/forging-unity-in-foreign-affairs-diplomacy-security-and-national-development

UN reimposes sanctions on Iran after nuclear talks collapse

**UN Reimposes Sanctions on Iran After Nuclear Talks Collapse**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 28, 2025, 03:05 PM*

The United Nations has reimposed sweeping sanctions on Iran, a decade after they were first lifted. This move follows the collapse of nuclear negotiations between Iran and Western powers. The newly reinstated sanctions prohibit transactions related to Tehran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs and are expected to have a broader impact on Iran’s already struggling economy.

### Diplomatic Efforts and Calls for Dialogue

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged Iran to “accept direct talks, held in good faith” and called on UN member states to “immediately” implement the sanctions. Meanwhile, the foreign ministers of Britain, France, and Germany reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing a diplomatic solution aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. They also urged Tehran to “refrain from any escalatory action.”

### Iran’s Response and Failed Attempts to Delay Sanctions

Although Iran has permitted UN inspectors back into its nuclear sites, President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected a US proposal for a temporary pause in nuclear activity in exchange for handing over the country’s entire stockpile of enriched uranium. An effort by Russia and China to postpone the sanctions implementation until April was unsuccessful.

Germany, along with the UK and France, which spearheaded the sanctions, stated it had “no choice” but to act given Iran’s non-compliance with its international obligations.

### Diplomatic Fallout

Russia has refused to enforce the sanctions, labeling them invalid. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov claimed the sanctions “finally exposed the West’s policy of sabotaging the pursuit of constructive solutions.” In reaction to the renewed sanctions, Iran recalled its ambassadors from the UK, France, and Germany for consultations.

### Economic Impact of the Renewed Sanctions

The reinstated sanctions are already affecting Iran’s economy. According to Iranian engineer Dariush, the exchange rate is soaring and prices are climbing. On Saturday, the US dollar reached a record high of approximately 1.12 million rials on the black market.

Despite these challenges, the Brussels-based think tank International Crisis Group noted that Iran appears dismissive of the sanctions, having already adapted to previous US restrictions.

The situation remains tense as the international community monitors developments closely, hoping for a diplomatic resolution to avoid further escalation.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/sweeping-un-sanctions-hit-iran-as-nuclear-negotiations-completely-collapse/story

Trump says Ireland and US will ‘work closely’ as new embassy opens in Washington

US President Donald Trump expressed his eagerness to “work closely” with Ireland to strengthen the long-standing relationship between the two nations.

This announcement coincided with Tanaiste Simon Harris formally opening the new offices of the Irish Embassy in the United States, located in Washington, DC. The new Embassy, situated on Pennsylvania Avenue next to the White House, was warmly welcomed by President Trump, who emphasized his commitment to advancing fair trade policies and investment opportunities that benefit the citizens of both countries.

Speaking in Washington, DC, the Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade said:
“I want to thank President Trump for his kind words as we begin to write the next chapter in the great story of Ireland-US relations. These offices at 1700 Pennsylvania Avenue, next to the White House, represent the culmination of a nearly four-year project to realize a significant commitment of the Global Ireland Strategy and National Development Plan.”

He continued, “This will be an excellent base from which to grow our vital political, economic, and cultural ties with the US over the years ahead. Our ambition stretches beyond Washington, DC too. The Government has deepened its investment in our diplomatic platform across the United States recently, with new Ireland Houses in New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, as well as new Consulates in Los Angeles and Miami.”

Mr. Harris also announced the launch of an economic impact report that maps Ireland’s economic footprint across the US. The report highlights the remarkable impact of the Ireland-US partnership in trade, employment, research, tourism, and investment.

Ireland is now the 5th largest source of foreign direct investment in America, with Irish companies creating more than 200,000 American jobs.

This growing collaboration promises a continued strengthening of ties and mutual prosperity between Ireland and the United States.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/trump-says-ireland-and-us-will-work-closely-as-new-embassy-opens-in-washington-1811131.html

North Korea can talk to US if it stops insisting on denuclearisation, Kim says

North Korea Open to Talks with US if Denuclearization Demand is Dropped, Says Kim Jong Un

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has indicated that his country could resume talks with the United States if Washington abandons its insistence on denuclearization. Reflecting on past interactions, Kim recalled fond memories of former President Donald Trump.

In a statement released during a meeting of the Supreme People’s Assembly at the Mansudae Assembly Hall in Pyongyang, Kim emphasized the potential for renewed dialogue under the right conditions.

The comments were published on September 22, 2025, by North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency, signaling a possible shift in Pyongyang’s approach to diplomatic engagement with the US.

https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868317