Dear Mr. Secretary.
We commend the U.S. Government team that helped secure the release and return of Andrew Brunson. The State Department-particularly U.S. Embassy Ankara-performed with the professionalism and dedication we expect from American diplomats. We look forward to receiving a debrief from your team to our staff on Mr. Brunson’s release by November 9.
There are certainly many high profile issues on the agenda between the United States and Turkey, including the alleged murder and disappearance of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Nevertheless, other American citizens, including NASA scientist Dr. Serkan Golge, and U.S. Mission locally-employed staff remain imprisoned by Turkey on spurious charges.
We believe that it is important the State Department continue to actively press Turkey for their release and look forward to a briefing on efforts to secure their freedom.
Again, thank you for your consideration and we look forward to your reply.
