Press Releases: Death of Saudi Students Attempting to Rescue Children in Massachusetts


Press Statement

Heather Nauert

Department Spokesperson

Washington, DC

July 5, 2018


The United States expresses its heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of Theeb al-Yami and Jaser al-Rakah after their tragic deaths in Massachusetts. The young men drowned while courageously attempting to save children in distress. Their heroism represents the very best of the international students who enrich communities across the United States. Theeb and Jaser were among the 52,000 Saudi students studying in the United States who bring greater international understanding and diverse perspectives to U.S. campuses and communities, and to Saudi Arabia when they return home.






Press Releases: Global Magnitsky Designations for Nicaragua


Press Statement

Heather Nauert

Department Spokesperson

Washington, DC

July 5, 2018


Today, the United States government sanctioned three individuals from Nicaragua who have been involved in serious human rights abuse or engaged in corruption. As a result of today’s actions, any property, or interest in property, of those designated within U.S. jurisdiction is blocked. Additionally, U.S. persons are generally prohibited from engaging in transactions with blocked persons, including entities owned or controlled by designated persons.

Under Francisco Javier Diaz Madriz’s command, Nicaragua’s National Police has engaged in serious human rights abuse against the people of Nicaragua. Fidel Antonio Moreno Briones has directed acts of violence committed by the Sandinista Youth and pro-government armed groups which have been implicated in numerous human rights abuses related to the ongoing protests against the Nicaraguan government. Jose Francisco Lopez Centeno is the Vice President of ALBANISA, the President of Petronic, and the Treasurer of the ruling FSLN party and has been accused of leveraging his position to his and his family’s benefit by using companies they own to win government contracts.

Today’s sanctions announcement, plus earlier and continuing visa revocations, shows the United States will expose and hold accountable those responsible for the Nicaraguan government’s ongoing violence and intimidation campaign against its people. These actions must end. We support the Episcopal Conference of Nicaragua’s efforts to advance negotiations to resolve the crisis, and urge full implementation of the June 15 National Dialogue agreement on human rights as a critical component. The United States also supports calls for early, free, fair and transparent elections. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and take additional actions as events warrant.






Press Releases: Algerian Independence Day


Press Statement

Michael R. Pompeo

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

July 5, 2018


On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer congratulations on the anniversary of Algeria’s independence.

The United States greatly appreciates its close friendship with Algeria, and our nations have benefited from our efforts to advance shared interests of security, prosperity, and economic growth. We look forward to further deepening our bilateral cooperation and expanding the strong ties between the American and Algerian people.

As you celebrate this important day, I extend my best wishes for the coming year.






Press Releases: Solomon Islands National Day


Press Statement

Michael R. Pompeo

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

July 5, 2018


On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, please accept my best wishes in celebration of your National Day on July 7th.

Since World War II, the United States and the Solomon Islands have maintained a strong and warm friendship. Our cooperation on sustainable fisheries, economic development, and unexploded ordnance removal are just some of the areas in which we partner to make the Pacific region more prosperous and resilient. We appreciate your partnership in international fora and applaud your dedication to good governance and transparency.

On this joyful occasion, I offer my warmest regards for a wonderful National Day.






Press Releases: Cabo Verde’s National Day


Press Statement

Michael R. Pompeo

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

July 5, 2018


On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my best wishes to Cabo Verdeans as they celebrate 43 years of independence.

The United States and Cabo Verde share a longstanding friendship based on our mutual commitment to strengthening democracy and good governance, enhancing economic opportunities, and fortifying law enforcement and maritime security.

As we reflect upon our historic partnership, we congratulate Cabo Verde for serving as a model of democratic governance and for its continued maritime security partnership with the United States. We celebrate Cabo Verde’s progress and its promise for the future. I offer best wishes for a joyous and safe holiday, and I reaffirm the commitment of the United States to our enduring friendship.