The Deputy Secretary, William J. Burns serves as the principal deputy, adviser, and alter ego to the Secretary of State; serves as Acting Secretary of State in the Secretary's absence; and assists the Secretary in the formulation and conduct of U.S. foreign policy and in giving general supervision and direction to all elements of the Department. Specific duties and supervisory responsibilities have varied over time.
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America’s Commitment to Africa
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U.S.-Russia Relations Deputy Secretary Burns (Jan. 16): "We discussed the truly impressive accomplishments of recent years – the New START treaty, the 123 agreement on civil nuclear cooperation between our two countries, strengthening of cooperation on Afghanistan which is in both of our interests, our work together on non-proliferation, especially in Iran and North Korea, the very positive partnership we have built on counternarcotics and counterterrorism, the creation of the bilateral presidential commission which provides a very important structure for our relationship, and most recently Russia’s accession to the WTO." Full Interview» |
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U.S.-Turkey Partnership
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Deputy Secretary Burns (Jan. 30): "America’s commitment to the continent is underscored by our work to support gains in democratic governance, sustainable development, economic growth, and the peaceful resolution of conflict. This includes our support for democracy and governance programs across the continent, our ongoing efforts to strengthen commercial ties between the U.S. and Africa, and our steadfast support for the protection and promotion of human rights." 
Deputy Secretary Burns (Jan. 10): "This extensive agenda is a very strong reminder of the breadth and significance of our partnership, of the positive role that Turkey plays on so many issues in this region and beyond, and of the value of the United States and Turkey working together." 