27 Jan
Antony Blinken has become the new US secretary of state, after winning approval by the Senate.
The 58-year-old assumed the post in a swearing-in ceremony at the State Department on Tuesday.
Earlier in the day, the Senate endorsed President Joe Biden's nominee by a majority vote, with 78 in favor and 22 against.
During former President Barack Obama's first term, Blinken was then-Vice President Biden's National Security Advisor. He served as Deputy Secretary of State during Obama's second term.
At a Senate confirmation hearing, Blinken cited the need to respond to China as a top diplomatic priority. He vowed to take a tough stance toward China's human rights violations and military buildup, in coordination with US allies.
Blinken is expected to spearhead the Biden administration's efforts to shift from former President Donald Trump's "America First" attitude to an approach that takes international cooperation into account.
Eyes are on whether he can restore ties with Europe, as well as produce results regarding the China issue and Iran's nuclear development.
NHK
