State Dept. on Honduras diplomatic visas

Honduras: Diplomatic Visa Revocations (Taken Question)

Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
Question taken at Daily Briefing of July 28, 2009
July 28, 2009

Question: Are any of the holders of diplomatic visas that we’re reviewing currently in the U.S.?

Answer: We do not discuss individual visa cases due to federal laws.

Question: How many visas are we reviewing?

Answer: Some other cases concerning diplomatic visas are under review.

Question: Why did we not take this step earlier?

Answer: The decision to revoke visas is not one taken lightly or without due diligence. We arrived at this decision after careful consideration. We have said repeatedly since the crisis began that we do not acknowledge the de facto regime in Honduras as the legitimate government there.

Question: Are we having any dealings with the Honduran Embassy here in Washington, DC?

Answer: Charge Rodolfo Pastor, appointed by President Zelaya, is the current head of mission at the Honduran Embassy in Washington. We are dealing with him and other diplomats representing the Zelaya government.

Question: Are we considering revoking their visas and sending them back?

Answer: The Zelaya government has indicated it will terminate Honduran Embassy diplomats and staff who support the de facto regime. Once they submit the proper notification of termination on these individuals, the United States will take steps to terminate their status.