Final Answer:
(b) U.S. Dept. of State (federal government)
Step-by-step explanation:
The abbreviation "(b)" denotes the U.S. Dept. of State, a federal government agency responsible for the country's foreign affairs. This department plays a crucial role in shaping and implementing foreign policy, managing diplomatic relations, and safeguarding the interests of U.S. citizens abroad. It is distinct from options (a) and (c). Option (a) refers to the Republic of Uzbekistan, a sovereign country in Central Asia, and option (c) points to the United Transportation Workers, likely a labor union in the transportation sector. Therefore, option (b) is the correct association with the given abbreviation.
Option:
(b) U.S. Dept. of State (federal government)