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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