Merkley Applauds Senate Confirmation of U.S. Ambassador to Timor-Leste

Calls confirmation ‘good step forward’ in dialogue regarding Stacey Addison

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

WASHINGTON, DC – Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley applauded the Senate confirmation of Karen Stanton to be the U.S. Ambassador to Timor-Leste and expressed his hope for expanded talks with the Timorese government regarding Dr. Stacey Addison.  The Oregon veterinarian has been imprisoned for weeks even though, according to reports, she has not been charged with a crime and appears to have no connection other than as a witness to criminal activity.  Yesterday’s confirmation of Karen Stanton comes just a week after Senators Merkley and Wyden sent a letter to Senate leaders Harry Reid and Mitch McConnell urging them to schedule a vote on this nomination. Dr. Addison’s case highlights the importance of having high-level representation in the form of our ambassadors.

 “I’m hopeful that the confirmation of Karen Stanton will be a good step forward in advancing our dialogue with the Timorese government and will help to encourage a fair and speedy process for Dr. Addison,” said Senator Merkley.

Senator Merkley met with the Ambassador of Timor-Leste last week to discuss Dr. Addison’s case and his staff has been working with the State Department to offer assistance to Dr. Addison and her family. 

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