As a matter of principle and longstanding policy, the United States upholds freedom of the press as a vital element of a representative democracy.

I take a backseat to no one in terms of my advocacy on the question of promoting human rights and democracy in Cuba.

There is absolutely no shortcut to a Palestinian state. The only path to a Palestinian state is through direct negotiations between the parties to resolve all permanent status issues.

The United States has made clear it will not support any such initiative in the Council, vetoing it if necessary.

It seems to me a description of the views of the Government of the United States, at least in the executive branch, and the Government of El Salvador, as well as that of the Human Rights Council of the United Nations.

Any action that is taken in New York or Paris or anywhere else is a distraction and undermines the prospects for peace.

I had the opportunity to meet with the First Lady and the Secretary of Social Inclusion, Dr. Pignato, last week.

We look forward hearing from you as it gets finalized, as to what our assistance might be.

This change really demonstrates the commitment from this government to transformational change in the areas of security and economic growth.

I look forward to supporting your nomination and working with you in the days ahead.

Cuba is violating the rights of an American, and it appears to be solely for trying to get leverage over America, which we will not tolerate.