The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and the Republic of Poland to announce the Ministerial to Promote a Future of Peace and Security in the Middle East.
The United States does not recognize Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro’s illegitimate claim to power. His “election” in May 2018 was viewed internationally as not free, fair or credible.
The United States takes note of the National Independent Electoral Commission's announcement of the provisional results of December 30 elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We congratulate the millions of courageous voters who went to the polls across DRC to cast their ballots after two years of delay.
The January 6th announcement of autocephaly for an independent Orthodox Church of Ukraine marks a historic achievement as Ukraine seeks to chart its own future. On this momentous occasion, the United States reiterates its unwavering support for a sovereign, independent Ukraine.
The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino:
Secretary Pompeo spoke by phone today with Juan Guaidó and congratulated Mr. Guaidó on his recent swearing-in as Venezuela’s new President of the democratically elected National Assembly.
SECRETARY POMPEO: Thank you, Frank. Thank you to Frank Ricciardone. Thank you for your service to America as well, in addition to the duties that you perform here.
I’ve had the good fortune to be a frequent visitor here to Egypt and the Middle East as Secretary of State. In my prior role as CIA director, I was here with some frequency, and I came here too as a member of Congress.
FOREIGN MINISTER SHOUKRY: (Via translation) Ladies and Gentlemen, I am happy to welcome Secretary Pompeo.
I had the honor of meeting him this morning after his meeting with President Sisi. During the meeting, the deep-rooted strategic bilateral relations between Egypt and the United States were stressed.
SECRETARY POMPEO: Just wanted to say this is a – I hope you all get a chance to see a truly remarkable place where you can see religious liberty, religious freedom at work in this special country. President Sisi clearly made a point by putting this – this largest cathedral in the Middle East – here in this place.
“In just 24 months, the United States under President Trump has reasserted its traditional role as a force for good in this region, because we’ve learned from our mistakes. We have rediscovered our voice. We have rebuilt our relationships. We have rejected false overtures from enemies.”
– Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, January 10, 2019
SECRETARY POMPEO: (In progress) chance to tour both the new cathedral and now this, a beautiful house of worship as well. It is truly a testament to the Egyptian people, the capacity to exercise their faith and their freedoms here in these houses of worships, these big, gorgeous, beautiful buildings where the Lord is clearly at work.