Secretary Pompeo and the U.S. Department of State just wrapped up the first-ever Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom in Washington.
According to the Department of State, over 80 delegations and religious leaders from around the world discussed challenges and ways to combat religious discrimination. Vice President Pence was also in attendance. This event’s mission included reaffirming international commitments to protect religious freedom – something the Trump Administration feels is a serious priority.
In a USA Today Opinion, Pompeo described instances of government-ordered church demolitions, ethnic cleanse campaigns, imprisonments, live burnings, and torture techniques – all due to individuals’ religious beliefs.
“These episodes and others like them are abhorrent. Religious freedom is a God-given right to which all people are entitled,” wrote the Secretary.
The Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom, which lasted three days, called on additional partners work towards their mission around the world. Secretary Pompeo ended the event by releasing the Potomac Declaration and a plan of action.
“The Potomac Declaration is a formal affirmation that says right up front that the United States takes religious freedom seriously, that we will work with others around the world to help those under attack for their beliefs, and that we expect leaders around the world to make it their priority as well,” said the Secretary.
Thank you to the Trump Administration and Secretary Pompeo for making religious freedom a priority at home and abroad!
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Continue reading:
https://www.state.gov/j/drl/irf/religiousfreedom/index.htm
https://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2018/07/24/defend-religious-freedom-global-attacks-mike-pompeo-column/818972002/