On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer congratulations to Rwanda on its 55thNational Day.

The United States and Rwanda share a close relationship born of decades of engagement on issues of mutual interest, including bilateral trade and investment, gender equality, and regional security. We commend Rwanda’s efforts to strengthen pan-African institutions, develop economic opportunities, and support peace on the African continent. The United States looks forward to continuing to deepen the ties that bind our two countries in coming years and to work with Rwanda on expanding efforts to strengthen democracy and respect for human rights.

As you honor your nation’s independence, I wish all Rwandans a festive celebration and continued peace and prosperity in the year ahead.

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We welcome the news that five of the persons responsible for the murder of Boris Nemtsov have been convicted of the crime. We call once more on the Russian Government to ensure that all involved in the killing of Boris Nemtsov, including anyone involved in organizing or ordering the crime, are brought to justice.

On February 27, 2015, Russians lost a champion of democracy and human rights when Boris Nemtsov was brutally murdered only steps from the Kremlin. A courageous advocate for the rule of law and transparency in government, Mr. Nemtsov was dedicated to advancing the rights of all his fellow citizens. Though Boris Nemtsov is gone, his patriotic spirit lives on in Russians young and old who seek to build a more democratic, prosperous and open Russia.

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Attribution is on-the-record from Spokesperson Heather Nauert.

Question:  When did the 120-day suspension begin, and when will the review be completed?

Answer:  Per the Presidential Memorandum of June 14, the 120-day suspension on refugee admissions began June 29, and the review of the refugee admissions and adjudication process outlined in the EO will be completed during that time.

The 120-day suspension does not apply to those determined to be “formally scheduled for transit” as of that time.

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External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein.

On behalf of the people of the United States, congratulations to the people of Seychelles as you celebrate the anniversary of your independence on June 29^th.

The United States values our relationship with Seychelles, and we strongly support our mutual efforts to assure regional and international security, combat maritime piracy, and support sustainable economic development. We look forward to continuing our work together on these efforts.

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External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein.

Best wishes to the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo on 57 years of independence.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo stands at a critical juncture, with an opportunity to build on and consolidate the important gains of the past years through an historic peaceful and democratic transfer of power. We wish the Democratic Republic of the Congo success as it strives to build a better future where all Congolese can participate freely in the democratic election of their leaders, benefit from the country’s enormous resource wealth, and work together in building a peaceful and prosperous future.

The United States stands with the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in these efforts and is committed to helping your country realize its full potential.

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External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein.