U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesman September 15, 2000 STATEMENT BY PHILIP T. REEKER, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN GUINEA: ATTACKS ON GUINEAN VILLAGES, VIOLENCE AGAINST REFUGEES The United States condemns the recent armed incursions across Guinea's border against the villages of Massadou, Medina Oula, and Pamalap. We deplore the loss of life and kidnappings suffered by Guineans and others whom Guinea has hosted within its borders and offer sincere condolences for the suffering of Guinea's people. The United States calls on all leaders of the region to respect their neighbors' borders and desist from supporting armed incursions. We are also deeply troubled by official Government of Guinea statements that appear to have resulted earlier this week in violence against and detentions of refugees in Guinea. We recognize Guinea's long history of openness and hospitality to refugees, including over 500,000 people fleeing violence in neighboring countries. We would be extremely concerned with any departure from this policy. We call on the government of Guinea to continue to protect refugee populations. We welcome indications that attacks on refugees have ceased and that the government of Guinea has ordered the release of all refugees detained in recent days. The United States remains committed to supporting Guinea's efforts to address the needs of refugees and their host communities. We also remain committed to securing sustainable peace for the region.
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