Press Releases: Presidential Elections in El Salvador


Press Statement

Robert Palladino

Deputy Spokesperson

Washington, DC
February 4, 2019


The United States congratulates Nayib Bukele on his election as the next president of the Republic of El Salvador. We salute the Salvadoran people for their commitment to democracy and their participation in a successful election.

The United States and El Salvador share a strong partnership based on our joint efforts to improve security and our mutual commitment to the rule of law and inclusive economic development. It is in our common interest to reduce illegal immigration and combat transnational crime by fostering economic growth, good governance, and security.

We value our cooperation and look forward to working with President-elect Bukele to expand economic opportunity, strengthen democratic institutions, and redouble efforts to make El Salvador safer and more prosperous for all Salvadorans.






Press Releases: Ambassador Carol Z. Perez Sworn in as Director General of the Foreign Service and Director of Human Resources


Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
February 4, 2019


Ambassador Carol Z. Perez was sworn in by Deputy Secretary John J. Sullivan on Friday, February 1, 2019 as Director General of the Foreign Service and Director of Human Resources. A career member of the Foreign Service for 31 years, Director General Perez was U.S. Ambassador to Chile from September 2016 until January 2019. From 2015-2016, she served as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Human Resources and before that as Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs. Director General Perez has served at our missions in Italy and Spain and held positions in the Office of the Under Secretary for Management, the Executive Secretariat, and the Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs.

Director General Perez is a graduate of Hiram College and George Washington University. 

Secretary Pompeo said in a message to employees today, “I have no doubt that she will help us strengthen a diverse, talented, and agile 21st century diplomatic corps to the benefit of all Americans.”

Members of the media who are interested in interviews with Director General Perez should contact Public Affairs Specialist Brenda Greenberg at 202-647-1679 or Public Affairs Specialist Lourdes Cue at 202-485-1582.






Press Releases: Foreign Terrorist Fighters in Syria


Press Statement

Robert Palladino

Deputy Spokesperson

Washington, DC
February 4, 2019


The United States appreciates the contributions the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have made on behalf of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. As they liberated territory from ISIS with courage and resolve, the SDF took into custody hundreds of foreign terrorist fighters from dozens of countries around the world. Through their efforts, ISIS is now weakened and on the run, and the world is a safer place.

Facing the extraordinary challenge of fighting a brutal enemy in a disciplined manner, the SDF has demonstrated a clear commitment to detain these individuals securely and humanely. The United States calls upon other nations to repatriate and prosecute their citizens detained by the SDF and commends the continued efforts of the SDF to return these foreign terrorist fighters to their countries of origin.

Despite the liberation of ISIS-held territory in Iraq and Syria, ISIS remains a significant terrorist threat and collective action is imperative to address this shared international security challenge.






Press Releases: Himalayan New Year (Losar)


Press Statement

Michael R. Pompeo

Secretary of State

Washington, DC
February 4, 2019


On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer my warmest wishes to the peoples of the Himalayan region and Tibetans throughout the world — including those in Bhutan, Nepal, India, and the Tibetan areas of the People’s Republic of China — in celebrating Losar.

As you, your families, and your communities gather this year to celebrate the New Year, know that the United States remains your steadfast partner and friend.






Press Releases: Sri Lanka’s National Day


Press Statement

Michael R. Pompeo

Secretary of State

Washington, DC
February 3, 2019


On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend to Sri Lanka very warm wishes as you commemorate your national day.

The United States remains eager to build on our partnership with Sri Lanka and advance shared interests in the Indo-Pacific region based on our common democratic values. Sri Lanka’s democratic institutions and constitutional processes have ensured your country’s continued advancement. We look forward to working together to further deepen ties between our nations, promote shared prosperity, and secure a stable and peaceful future.

As you celebrate your national day, I extend my best wishes for peace and happiness in the year ahead.