Press Releases: Panel of Guinean Judges Concludes Investigation Into 2009 Conakry Stadium Massacre


Press Statement

Heather Nauert

Department Spokesperson

Washington, DC

November 21, 2017


The United States welcomes the progress made by the panel of Guinean judges investigating the September 28, 2009 massacre of more than 150 protesters and rape of 100 women by security forces during a peaceful protest in Conakry, Guinea. On November 9, 2017, the domestic panel reached an important milestone when the judges formally concluded their investigation and brought charges against more than 14 suspects.

We are encouraged by this impressive progress – including the hearing of testimony from more than 450 victims and extensive witness interviews – but stress that there is still important work to be done in order to ensure justice for victims and accountability for those responsible for this atrocity. We stress that the Government of Guinea is primarily responsible for administering justice for its people. We call on Guinea to guarantee a fair trial for those accused, ensure the safety and security of all involved, and keep Guineans informed of the trial’s progress, as appropriate.

We continue to stand with Guineans, and people of all backgrounds and nationalities, as they strive for justice, accountability, and the prevention of future atrocities.






Press Releases: Lebanon National Day


Press Statement

Rex W. Tillerson

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

November 21, 2017


On behalf of the American people, I wish to pass along my warmest regards and congratulations to the people of Lebanon on the anniversary of your independence on November 22.

The United States looks forward to strengthening its friendship and cooperation with Lebanon as we work together to pursue our common goals and advance Lebanon’s sovereignty, stability, and independence. We reaffirm our support for Lebanese state institutions and appreciate our close partnership in addressing shared regional challenges, particularly the fight against terrorism.

Our enduring commitment to the Lebanese people will remain strong as Lebanon works to fulfill the aspirations of all Lebanese for a prosperous and secure future. Once again, please accept our best wishes to all of Lebanon on this historic occasion.






Press Releases: Terrorist Attack in Nigeria


Press Statement

Heather Nauert

Department Spokesperson

Washington, DC

November 21, 2017


The United States condemns today’s terrorist attack in Mubi, Adamawa State and extends our sincere condolences to the Nigerian people and the families of the victims killed in the attack. That the victims were targeted and killed in a place of worship demonstrates yet again the brutal nature of the terrorists whose sole aim is to threaten the peace and security of Nigerian citizens. Such ruthless attacks on innocent civilians only serve to strengthen our resolve towards meeting these threats in cooperation with our Nigerian and regional partners.






Press Releases: An Historic Moment for Zimbabwe


Press Statement

Rex W. Tillerson

Secretary of State

Washington, DC

November 21, 2017


With the resignation of Robert Mugabe, today marks an historic moment for Zimbabwe. We congratulate all Zimbabweans who raised their voices and stated peacefully and clearly that the time for change was overdue. Zimbabwe has an extraordinary opportunity to set itself on a new path.

The United States strongly supports a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Zimbabwe. As events unfold, we continue to call on all parties to exercise restraint and respect constitutional and civilian order.

We urge Zimbabwe’s leaders to implement much-needed political and economic reforms for a more stable and promising future for the Zimbabwean people. We will continue to support the people of Zimbabwe as these reforms move forward.

Whatever short-term arrangements the government may establish, the path forward must lead to free and fair elections. The people of Zimbabwe must choose their own leaders.






Press Releases: Remarks With Peruvian Foreign Minister Victor Ricardo Luna Mendoza Before Their Meeting


Remarks

Rex W. Tillerson

Secretary of State

Treaty Room

Washington, DC

November 21, 2017


SECRETARY TILLERSON: Good afternoon, all. I want to welcome Foreign Minister Luna of Peru to the State Department. It’s a pleasure to have you and the delegation visit here with us.

FOREIGN MINISTER LUNA: Good to be here.

SECRETARY TILLERSON: Pleased to have you.

FOREIGN MINISTER LUNA: It really is. Thank you very much.

SECRETARY TILLERSON: Thank you. Thank you, everybody.

QUESTION: Secretary Tillerson, why didn’t you put Afghanistan, Burma, and Iraq on the child soldiers list when the department itself says that they do conscript child soldiers?

SECRETARY TILLERSON: I think it’s all in the report.

FOREIGN MINISTER LUNA: Thank you.