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U.S. Department of State Weekly Digest Bulletin Εισερχόμενα Αναζήτηση για όλα τα μηνύματα με ετικέτα Εισερχόμενα Καταργήστε την ετικέτα Εισερχόμενα από αυτήν τη συζήτηση U.S. Department of State <usstatebpa@public.govdelivery.com> Κυρ 20 Αυγ, 4:59 μ.μ. (πριν από 16 ώρες) προς εγώ Αγγλικά Ελληνικά     Μετάφραση μηνύματος Απενεργοποίηση για: Αγγλικά Acting Assistant Secretary Littlejohn’s Travel to Seattle for APEC SOM3 08/05/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Acting Assistant Secretary Littlejohn’s Travel to Seattle for APEC SOM3 08/05/2023 08:06 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson Acting Assistant Secretary for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs Jennifer R. Littlejohn will travel to Seattle August 5-8, 2023, for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Third Senior Officials’ Meeting (APEC SOM3). She will attend the APEC Policy Partnership in Science, Technology, and Innovation (PPSTI) and present the APEC Science Prize for Innovation, Research and Education (ASPIRE), which recognizes young scientists who have demonstrated a commitment to both excellence in scientific research and cooperation with scientists from other APEC member economies.  She will also attend the Women in STEM Principles and Actions meeting to exchange best practices for inclusivity in STEM with colleagues from across the APEC region. While in Seattle, Acting Assistant Secretary Littlejohn will meet local government officials, business leaders, and innovators to discuss how policy and science and technology innovation are crucial to growing a sustainable economy and to solving global challenges such as wildlife trafficking, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and plastic pollution. APEC is the premier platform for the United States to advance economic policies in the Asia-Pacific region to promote free, fair, and open trade and investment and advance inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth. For media inquiries, please contact OES-PA-DG@state.gov. Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Investment and Maritime Affairs Luhut 08/05/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Secretary Blinken’s Meeting with Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Investment and Maritime Affairs Luhut 08/05/2023 08:15 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Investment and Maritime Affairs, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, today in Washington, D.C. Secretary Blinken and Coordinating Minister Luhut emphasized the importance of the United States and Indonesia’s economic relationship,  including continued cooperation in negotiations of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), support for the U.S. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) host year in 2023, and scaling new infrastructure investments through the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investments (PGII). The Secretary and the Coordinating Minister also discussed progress in implementing Indonesia’s Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) — a landmark, long-term partnership, launched at the G20 under PGII, that will mobilize $20 billion in public and private financing to accelerate Indonesia’s clean-energy transition. Finally, the Secretary and Coordinating Minister discussed the importance of critical minerals to a clean energy future and Indonesia’s efforts to improve the environmental, social, and governance and labor standards in the country’s mining sector. U.S. Support for the Philippines in the South China Sea  08/05/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. U.S. Support for the Philippines in the South China Sea  08/05/2023 10:32 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The United States stands with our Philippine allies in the face of dangerous actions by the Coast Guard and maritime militia of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to obstruct an August 5 Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea.  Firing water cannons and employing unsafe blocking maneuvers, PRC ships interfered with the Philippines’ lawful exercise of high seas freedom of navigation and jeopardized the safety of the Philippine vessels and crew. Such actions by the PRC are inconsistent with international law and are the latest in repeated threats to the status quo in the South China Sea, directly threatening regional peace and stability.  By impeding necessary provisions from reaching the Filipino servicemembers stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, the PRC has also undertaken unwarranted interference in lawful Philippine maritime operations. As made clear by an international tribunal’s legally binding decision issued in July 2016, the PRC has no lawful claim to the maritime area around Second Thomas Shoal, which is located well within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. The United States reiterates, pursuant to the 1982 Law of the Sea Convention, the arbitral decision is final and legally binding on the PRC and the Philippines.  The United States calls upon the PRC to abide by the arbitral ruling as well as to respect the freedom of navigation – a right to which all states are entitled. The United States reaffirms an armed attack on Philippine public vessels, aircraft, and armed forces—including those of its Coast Guard in the South China Sea—would invoke U.S. mutual defense commitments under Article IV of the 1951 U.S. Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty. Bolivia National Day 08/06/2023 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Bolivia National Day 08/06/2023 09:00 AM EDT Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of the Plurinational State of Bolivia on the 198th anniversary of its independence on August 6. On this date, we celebrate the dedication of Bolivians to building a more democratic, just, and inclusive society.  The United States and Bolivia enjoy strong ties—ties that are rooted in friendship and a deep admiration for each other’s cultures.  We remain committed to strengthening those bonds in partnership with the Bolivian people. I wish all Bolivians a happy Independence Day. Jamaica National Day 08/06/2023 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Jamaica National Day 08/06/2023 09:00 AM EDT Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the U.S. government and the American people, I send my sincere congratulations to Jamaica as you celebrate the 61st anniversary of your independence. We are honored to work with Jamaica to find solutions to pressing regional challenges.  Through our deepening partnership, we uphold our shared democratic principles, collaborate through the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis (PACC 2030), and secure the prosperity of our citizens.  This close friendship is built on a strong foundation of personal connections and a vibrant Jamaican-American community. May the year ahead be a happy and prosperous one for all Jamaicans. Bolivia National Day 08/06/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Bolivia National Day 08/06/2023 09:00 AM EDT Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of the Plurinational State of Bolivia on the 198th anniversary of its independence on August 6. On this date, we celebrate the dedication of Bolivians to building a more democratic, just, and inclusive society.  The United States and Bolivia enjoy strong ties—ties that are rooted in friendship and a deep admiration for each other’s cultures.  We remain committed to strengthening those bonds in partnership with the Bolivian people. I wish all Bolivians a happy Independence Day. Jamaica National Day 08/06/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Jamaica National Day 08/06/2023 09:00 AM EDT Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the U.S. government and the American people, I send my sincere congratulations to Jamaica as you celebrate the 61st anniversary of your independence. We are honored to work with Jamaica to find solutions to pressing regional challenges.  Through our deepening partnership, we uphold our shared democratic principles, collaborate through the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis (PACC 2030), and secure the prosperity of our citizens.  This close friendship is built on a strong foundation of personal connections and a vibrant Jamaican-American community. May the year ahead be a happy and prosperous one for all Jamaicans. Public Schedule – August 7, 2023 08/06/2023 You are subscribed to Public Schedule for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Public Schedule – August 7, 2023 08/06/2023 08:13 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson ***THE DAILY PUBLIC SCHEDULE IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE***   SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN 8:30 a.m. Secretary Blinken delivers remarks at the Commemoration of the 25th Anniversary of the U.S. Embassy Bombings in Kenya and Tanzania at the Department of State. (POOLED PRESS COVERAGE) The event will be streamed live on the Department homepage and the Department YouTube channel . 3:30 p.m. Secretary Blinken meets with Salvadoran Foreign Minister Alexandra Hill Tinoco at the Department of State. (OPEN PRESS COVERAGE) The camera spray will be streamed live on the Department homepage and the Department YouTube channel . Final access time is 3:00 p.m. from the 23rd Street entrance. DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR MANAGEMENT AND RESOURCES RICHARD R. VERMA 8:30 a.m. Deputy Secretary Verma attends the Commemoration of the 25th Anniversary of the U.S. Embassy Bombings in Kenya and Tanzania at the Department of State. (POOLED PRESS COVERAGE) 2:30 p.m. Deputy Secretary Verma meets with Republic of Korea Ambassador to the United States Cho Hyundong at the Department of State. (CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE) 3:15 p.m. Deputy Secretary Verma meets with UK Ambassador to the United States Karen Pierce at the Department of State. (CLOSED PRESS COVERAGE) ACTING DEPUTY SECRETARY OF STATE VICTORIA J. NULAND Acting Deputy Secretary Nuland attends meetings and briefings at the Department of State. UNDER SECRETARY FOR CIVILIAN SECURITY, DEMOCRACY, AND HUMAN RIGHTS UZRA ZEYA Under Secretary Zeya has no public appointments. ACTING ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR OCEANS AND INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL AND SCIENTIFIC AFFAIRS JENNIFER R. LITTLEJOHN  Acting Assistant Secretary Littlejohn is on travel to Washingtonfrom August 5-8, 2023. BRIEFING SCHEDULE 1:15 p.m. Department Press Briefing with Spokesperson Matthew Miller. (OPEN PRESS COVERAGE) The Department Press Briefing will be streamed live on the Department homepage and YouTube Channel.   Côte d’Ivoire National Day 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Côte d’Ivoire National Day 08/07/2023 12:01 AM EDT Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate Côte d’Ivoire on 63 years of independence. The United States and Côte d’Ivoire share a special friendship grounded in our shared values. This partnership is brought to life by the collaboration of our two governments, our businesses, civil society and, most importantly, our people. With all of these elements of a strong relationship, we can achieve peace and prosperity. This past year, we have strengthened democratic governance and elevated the importance of transparency at the second Summit of Democracy. Our entrepreneurs, women leaders, and creative change-makers have enhanced our relationship, and we have made important investments in tackling the most pressing global challenges, including climate change, violent extremism, and efforts to thwart fundamental freedoms and undermine the international rules-based order. The United States is appreciative of the partnership we enjoy with the people and government of Côte d’Ivoire. We celebrate Côte d’Ivoire on this day and wish you a year full of happiness and good health. Côte d’Ivoire National Day 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Côte d’Ivoire National Day 08/07/2023 12:01 AM EDT Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate Côte d’Ivoire on 63 years of independence. The United States and Côte d’Ivoire share a special friendship grounded in our shared values. This partnership is brought to life by the collaboration of our two governments, our businesses, civil society and, most importantly, our people. With all of these elements of a strong relationship, we can achieve peace and prosperity. This past year, we have strengthened democratic governance and elevated the importance of transparency at the second Summit of Democracy. Our entrepreneurs, women leaders, and creative change-makers have enhanced our relationship, and we have made important investments in tackling the most pressing global challenges, including climate change, violent extremism, and efforts to thwart fundamental freedoms and undermine the international rules-based order. The United States is appreciative of the partnership we enjoy with the people and government of Côte d’Ivoire. We celebrate Côte d’Ivoire on this day and wish you a year full of happiness and good health. Marking Fifteen Years Since Russia’s Invasion and Occupation of Georgia 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Europe and Eurasia for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Marking Fifteen Years Since Russia’s Invasion and Occupation of Georgia 08/07/2023 08:33 AM EDT Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Fifteen years ago, Russia invaded the sovereign nation of Georgia and occupied 20 percent of its territory.  The United States remains steadfast in our support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.  The lives of the conflict-affected populations have forever been altered by Russia’s actions.  With deepest respect and heartfelt sympathy, we remember those killed, injured, and displaced by Russia’s forces. Russia’s actions during its occupation, including the Kremlin’s malign disinformation campaigns, so-called “borderization,” and mass displacement still cause untold hardships.  As in Ukraine, the people of Georgia have suffered the consequences of Russia’s contempt for international law and desire to dominate its neighbors. The United States remains determined to hold Russia accountable for its obligation under the 2008 six-point ceasefire agreement to withdraw its forces to pre-conflict positions and allow unimpeded access for the delivery of humanitarian assistance.  Russia must also reverse its recognition of the so-called independence of Georgia’s Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions.  These actions are essential for hundreds of thousands of internally displaced people to be able to return to their homes safely and live with dignity. After fifteen years, the United States remains unwavering in our support for the people of Georgia and for their overwhelming desire for Euro-Atlantic integration, as they defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity, and seek a peaceful solution to the conflict. Marking Fifteen Years Since Russia’s Invasion and Occupation of Georgia 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Marking Fifteen Years Since Russia’s Invasion and Occupation of Georgia 08/07/2023 08:33 AM EDT Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Fifteen years ago, Russia invaded the sovereign nation of Georgia and occupied 20 percent of its territory.  The United States remains steadfast in our support for Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.  The lives of the conflict-affected populations have forever been altered by Russia’s actions.  With deepest respect and heartfelt sympathy, we remember those killed, injured, and displaced by Russia’s forces. Russia’s actions during its occupation, including the Kremlin’s malign disinformation campaigns, so-called “borderization,” and mass displacement still cause untold hardships.  As in Ukraine, the people of Georgia have suffered the consequences of Russia’s contempt for international law and desire to dominate its neighbors. The United States remains determined to hold Russia accountable for its obligation under the 2008 six-point ceasefire agreement to withdraw its forces to pre-conflict positions and allow unimpeded access for the delivery of humanitarian assistance.  Russia must also reverse its recognition of the so-called independence of Georgia’s Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions.  These actions are essential for hundreds of thousands of internally displaced people to be able to return to their homes safely and live with dignity. After fifteen years, the United States remains unwavering in our support for the people of Georgia and for their overwhelming desire for Euro-Atlantic integration, as they defend their sovereignty and territorial integrity, and seek a peaceful solution to the conflict. Embassy Luanda Launches the Dinheiro Digital é Melhor Project to Increase Financial Inclusion 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Embassy Luanda Launches the Dinheiro Digital é Melhor Project to Increase Financial Inclusion 08/07/2023 10:26 AM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The U.S. Embassy in Angola launched the Dinheiro Digital é Melhor project with mobile operator Africell to improve and expand the use of mobile money applications, making it easier to send and receive money.  This two-year, nearly $5 million project, funded through the U.S. Government Agency for International Development (USAID), will support the Government of Angola’s objective to increase financial inclusion and the U.S. Government’s contribution to the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment (PGII).  U.S. Ambassador to Angola and São Tomé e Príncipe, Tulinabo S. Mushingi, and PGII Senior Advisor Danae Pauli attended the official launch at the Africell headquarters in Luanda.  Angolan Secretary of State for Technical and Professional Learning, Gildo Matias, Secretary of State for Science, Technology and Innovation, Alice de Almeida, and National Director of Business and Planning, Laercio Cândido, also attended the launch, as well as representatives from international agencies, civil society, the private sector, and local media. Building on President Biden’s commitment at the 2023 G7 Summit to support development of the Lobito Corridor and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation’s existing financing for Africell in the DRC, Sierra Leone, and the Gambia, this project represents an expansion of the US government’s partnership with Angola to support sustainable economic development by empowering the Angolan people.   The Dinheiro Digital é Melhor Project in particular will empower ordinary Angolans to conveniently make and receive payments at their fingertips, bridging the gap between individuals and financial services, and breaking down barriers and reaching those previously excluded from the formal financial system. For information about the Dinheiro Digital é Melhor project, please contact the U.S. Embassy Press, Culture and Education Section at pressluanda@state.gov or call 222-641-134. Secretary Blinken’s Call with Republic of Cyprus Foreign Minister Kombos 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Europe and Eurasia for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Secretary Blinken’s Call with Republic of Cyprus Foreign Minister Kombos 08/07/2023 12:09 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Republic of Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos today via phone.  The two discussed durable transatlantic unity in opposing Russia’s unjustified war in Ukraine, and Cyprus’ commitment to advancing peace and security in the eastern Mediterranean.  The Secretary underscored U.S. commitment to continued investment in the U.S.-Republic of Cyprus bilateral relationship and U.S. readiness to support Cypriot-led efforts to reunify the island. Secretary Blinken’s Call with Republic of Cyprus Foreign Minister Kombos 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Secretary Blinken’s Call with Republic of Cyprus Foreign Minister Kombos 08/07/2023 12:09 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Republic of Cyprus Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos today via phone.  The two discussed durable transatlantic unity in opposing Russia’s unjustified war in Ukraine, and Cyprus’ commitment to advancing peace and security in the eastern Mediterranean.  The Secretary underscored U.S. commitment to continued investment in the U.S.-Republic of Cyprus bilateral relationship and U.S. readiness to support Cypriot-led efforts to reunify the island. Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba 08/07/2023 12:20 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba today via phone from Washington, D.C.  The two discussed developments in Ukraine’s counteroffensive efforts, recent conversations about a just and durable peace in Ukraine held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and long-term security arrangements between the two countries.  The Secretary reiterated the United States’ staunch and ongoing support of Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s aggression and reaffirmed continued support of a strong Ukrainian military and accountable defense institutions. Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Europe and Eurasia for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Secretary Blinken’s Call with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba 08/07/2023 12:20 PM EDT Office of the Spokesperson The following is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba today via phone from Washington, D.C.  The two discussed developments in Ukraine’s counteroffensive efforts, recent conversations about a just and durable peace in Ukraine held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and long-term security arrangements between the two countries.  The Secretary reiterated the United States’ staunch and ongoing support of Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s aggression and reaffirmed continued support of a strong Ukrainian military and accountable defense institutions. Secretary Blinken at a Commemoration for the 25th Anniversary of the U.S. Embassy Bombings in Tanzania and Kenya 08/07/2023 You are subscribed to Secretary's Remarks for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Secretary Blinken at a Commemoration for the 25th Anniversary of the U.S. Embassy Bombings in Tanzania and Kenya 08/07/2023 01:40 PM EDT Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. National Museum of American Diplomacy ASSISTANT SECRETARY PHEE:  Good morning, and welcome to the Department of State.  Ladies, gentlemen, distinguished guests, there are so many of you here I can’t single any one of you out, but we’re delighted to welcome you back here to what we hope you consider to be your second home. I am honored and humbled to be with you all today as we remember those who lost their lives and were injured on August 7th, 1998. To the families, we are so grateful that you are sharing your day of remembrance with all of us here at the department.  This day is a somber one for us, too, as we reflect on the loss and pain of the past 25 years. I would like to recognize my good friends from Kenya and Tanzania, the ambassador from the – from Kenya, Ambassador Lazarus Amayo, and the ambassador from Tanzania, Elsie Kanza.  You stand in solidarity with us.  We remember the loss and pain you and your countrymen suffered as well. Today we have a two-part program.  First, we will remember.  We will remember the tragic events of 25 years ago and honor those who were lost, injured, and deeply impacted. Second, we will discuss resilience.  Our panel following the ceremony will discuss how the department has learned and grown to strengthen embassy security protocols, increase support for survivors, and equip the next generation with the tools to prevent and respond to terrorist attacks. It is a great personal honor for me to introduce Ambassadors Bushnell and Lange, who frankly don’t need any introduction, but as you know were present on the day of the attacks.  Ambassador Bushnell was the U.S. ambassador to Kenya at the time of the bombing, and Ambassador Lange was the charge d’affaires in Tanzania.  We continue to benefit from their leadership and their support to the Nairobi and Dar Es Salaam communities. Thank you very much.  (Applause.) AMBASSADOR BUSHNELL:  Good morning.  Mr. Secretary, ambassadors, friends – 25 years ago, the Nairobi and U.S. embassy communities shattered when an al-Qaida-directed truck bomb blew up 218 neighbors and colleagues, injuring 4,000 more.  Jesse Aliganga, Julian Bartley, Jay Bartley, Rose Dalizu, Molly Hardy, Ken Hobson, Prabhi Kavaler, Arlene Kirk, Louise Martin, Michelle O’Connor, Sherry Olds, Tom Shah were loved ones of many here and part of my community.  Alongside 34 Kenyan colleagues who also died inside the embassy, they were striving to make a positive difference when they were cut down. On the streets outside, thousands of Nairobi citizens, moms and dads, commuters, small business owners, secretarial school students, school children, either lost their lives or endured changing wounds forever. The day after the bombing, our most critically wounded were going to be medically evacuated.  Teams of Kenyan and American colleagues were searching morgues, hospitals, and neighborhoods for our missing.  Nairobi citizens were still desperately crawling through the rubble for survivors of the collapsed Ufundi House.  We had learned of the bombing in Dar Es Salaam. I was expected to be in three places at the same time, and for some reason the words of a former boss, Don Leidel, came into my brain: Take care of your people, and the rest will take care of itself.  That became my leadership mantra and strategy.  You see, I was the ambassador and chief of mission.  I had personal responsibility for the safety of U.S. Government employees outside of military command, and American citizens in country.  I tried.  My efforts to persuade senior decision makers in the department to relocate a chancery that did not meet our own security standards from a vulnerable location produced feedback – stop nagging – but little else. At that time, department principals were keen to manage, to do things right, to stay within starvation budgets by waiving security requirements.  As chief of mission and community leader, I needed to lead, to do the right thing.  And so I kept pushing back.  Finally wrote the secretary of state.  Three months later we were blown up.  I would never have been able to face the people I face today, to have seen the pain, the sorrow, and the righteous anger of the families who lost, of survivors, victims, and many citizens in Nairobi had I not known that I did my leadership best. And what did the people do who were supposed to take care of the rest?  They dug themselves out of the rubble, they re-created their organizations, they assisted others, they helped one another to heal, and they created the August 7th Memorial Park – a foundation, the names of your loved ones, our former colleagues, our neighbors are etched in stone in an oasis of green.  Their lives and their memories formed the mission purpose of the memorial, a place on which evil took place – but no more.  The mission purpose, because of those who died, is to be a symbol of hope, peace, and reconciliation.  What a difference they made. Thank you.  (Applause.) AMBASSADOR LANGE:  Thank you, Molly and Prue.  Secretary Blinken, Ambassadors, distinguished guests, in August 1998, those of at the U.S. Embassy in Dar Es Salaam were working with the Tanzanian Government to strengthen democratic institutions, spur economic growth, improve health and education, and promote regional stability.  It was the kind of work that the Foreign Service does every day, all over the world, and we were proud to represent the United States. August 7th began as another beautiful day in Dar Es Salaam.  Then without warning a truck bomb with 1,500 to 2,000 pounds of TNT exploded on the street just outside the embassy.  Everyone here who was in Dar or Nairobi that day can remember the exact second the bomb went off.  And I was just talking today to Ambassador Kanza, who can remember where she was in the central bank where she was working at the time in Dar es Salaam.  Everyone remembers that. For me, I remember I was in my office sitting on a sofa with my back against the outside wall.  And I remember – and I can still see it in slow motion – the glass from the window behind me blew over my head and landed on the people in front of me.  Thankfully, none of those – none of them were seriously injured because it was a Mylar plastic film on the glass, so it came in sheets rather than shards.  But 11 people perished in that bombing, and over 85 were injured. The dead included the husband of an American Fulbright Fellow – Susan Hirsch — her husband, Jamal Abdalla died, Foreign Service national employees died, security guards and contractors died.  The embassy and nearly all nearby residences and office buildings were devastated.  As The New York Times described it: “The back of the embassy had been peeled away by the bomb.  Staircases hung… in the air, and concrete slabs blown from the building were strewn over the grounds.  Nearby cars had become steel skeletons.” Our embassy, like the one in Nairobi, was far from meeting security standards.  We had only a 30-foot setback from the street.  No one working for the United States abroad should have to work in insecure facilities.  While it is comforting to know that many new, more secure embassies have been built since those tragic events in Dar and Nairobi 25 years ago, much more needs to be done.  Nothing is more important than protecting our people. One of the most striking things about the response by the survivors – many of whom are with us here today – was how American personnel, their family members, and locally employed staff took on duties they were never trained or expected to do.  In Dar Es Salaam, we consoled the families of those who died and cared for the injured – several of whom were medically evacuated.  We set up an airport operation, arranged for hotel accommodations, and fed the 350 American TDY personnel who arrived to support us.  We re-established embassy operations in what had been the residence of the public affairs officer guarded by U.S. Marines.  And we worked with the Tanzanian Government and the FBI to assist in the investigation that led to Osama bin Laden and al-Qaida. And I know that many of those who were in Dar that day, and I assume that many of those were in Nairobi that day, subsequently suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder.  I understand that there’s not – now an effort in Congress to increase the number of personnel in the Bureau of Medical Services who address mental health needs, and I think that’s long overdue.  I would hope that Med would do a mental health survey of current and retired employees and dependents who went through traumatic situations in Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere. For the victims of the 1998 bombings, it’s never been done. One of the fundamental lessons that I draw from the bombings is how critical it is for the State Department and other foreign affairs agencies to recruit and retain top-notch career employees, train them properly, house them in secure facilities, and reward them for their service. When the bomb went off, no one had the time to read the post’s emergency action plan under the tab “Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device.”  We responded by instinct based on years, often decades, of training and experience.  I look on all of the Dar and Nairobi responders as heroes, and none of us will ever forget that tragic day.  Thank you.  (Applause.) MS BARTLEY:  Good morning.  It is a privilege and honor for me to be here with you today.  As part of this historic commemoration, I serve as a voice for families directly impacted by the 1998 U.S. embassy bombings in East Africa.  I was fortunate to grow up around the world as part of a Foreign Service family, even being born at our first post, the Dominican Republic.  My greatest joy, like most of you, is my family.  I’m eternally grateful to have here with us today my mother, Mary Bartley.  She’s a true pillar of strength and wisdom.  My late father, Julian L.  Bartley, Sr., a career diplomat, and my brother, Julian L. Bartley, Jr. an intern and college student, also were killed in the bombings.  My husband Stephen Rice and I are the proud parents of Alexandra Olivia Bartley Rice, our biggest – our family’s biggest blessing and my greatest joy. Families from the embassy bombing are here today, and several gathered last night for dinner.  We thank you, Mr. Secretary, the African Bureau, and the senior leadership for embracing our families today and for making our requests for a special 25th commemoration a reality this year. The near-simultaneous bombings of our embassies in East Africa were not only attacks on U.S. soil abroad, but they were attacks on humanity.  They were the precursor to 9/11.  Twelve selfless, brave Americans who represented the Foreign Service, Intelligence Community, Department of Defense, and other agencies were killed.  Many more Foreign Service nationals, also known as locally employed staff, were also killed.  Many people live with physical injuries, and others live with the pain and trauma of loss every day.  I think it is safe for me to say all families impacted want to ensure this day is never forgotten. Please, would victims and survivors of terrorism, the injured and families of those, kindly, briefly please stand and be acknowledged?  Each of you and our families are part of the history and legacy of the State Department.  The legacy of our loved ones, colleagues, and friends killed should live on through each of us in a meaningful way.  Thank you.  Please be seated. How do we do this important work?  We as citizens of this great nation must tell their story and preserve their earned place in history.  Our families carry the burden of telling the story of the bombing and of our loved ones, colleagues, and friends.  Our gathering today at this historic diplomacy museum is symbolic.  Mr. Secretary, thank you for making State Department personnel among your highest priorities.  Your presence today and the time you spend with us reflects your commitment to helping preserve this important chapter in State Department history.  Please help ensure that future secretaries of state do the same. More than 8,000 Foreign Service employees work at U.S. embassies and other diplomatic missions.  We want to underscore to Congress the need to properly fund the State Department to carry out its mission safely and be able to care for its own when tragedy strikes.  The work has been and continues to be dangerous.  As long as there is instability in the world and democracy struggling to be formed, the dangers remain.  Diverse young professionals need to know about the important career opportunities at State and feel confident that the risk they take on is highly valued.  Newly minted Foreign Service officers and embassy personnel need to know their families will be taken care of and never forgotten if tragedy strikes.  The most precious asset of our U.S. embassies and consulates are the human personnel. Thank you again, Mr. Secretary, for having us here today.  Now it is my honor to introduce our nation’s most senior diplomat.  He started his public service career at the State Department, and over the years he had the opportunity to serve as a staffer for the National Security Council, as staff director for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and later as deputy secretary of state.  A native New Yorker like my father, and one who has dedicated his life to public service, please join me in welcoming the Honorable Antony J. Blinken, our 71st U.S. Secretary of State.  (Applause.) SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Good morning, everyone.  Edith, thank you for not just the overly kind introduction, but thank you for your incredibly powerful, sustained, consistent voice – a voice that resonates in this room, a voice that’s resonated in the halls of Congress, a voice that resonates in this department.  To you, to Ambassador Bushnell – John, to you as well – we’re so grateful for your presence here today.  It speaks volumes of your enduring dedication to some of the people in this room, to many who are not, but also to our institution because so much of this is also about making our institution better, particularly when it comes to looking out for its people. Every August 7th for a quarter century now, our State Department community – here in Washington and in posts around the world – has come together to observe the anniversary of the U.S. embassy bombings in Nairobi, and Dar es Salaam. On that day, as everyone in this room knows all too well, 224 colleagues, friends, community members, and loved ones were cruelly taken from us, from you.  Thousands of others were injured, left, as you’ve heard, with wounds both seen and unseen, many that will last a lifetime.  Our institution was scarred, and our country was newly awoken to the scourge of terror. It is an honor for me to be able to join you today in this solemn day of remembrance.  And I’m honored to be here with our colleagues on this platform, but also other colleagues in this room.  You have with you today the then-assistant secretary of state for African affairs, Susan Rice, my friend and colleague of so many years, who helped rally this institution in response to the attacks. You have with you today virtually the entire senior leadership of the State Department with our Chief of Staff Suzy George, the Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Rich Verma, the Under Secretary of State for Management John Bass, the Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee.  This, too, is some small evidence of our dedication to what this day means and what it needs to continue to mean going forward, and I just want to s ... [Περικομμένο μήνυμα]  Προβολή ολόκληρου του μηνύματος ΑπάντησηΠροώθηση