Edinburgh, Scotland - The Church of Scotland and the Church of England have reached an historic agreement that recognises their longstanding ecumenical partnership and lays the groundwork for future joint projects.

Washington, DC - The United States condemns recent acts of violence in the capital of Djibouti and calls for the immediate release of opposition leaders who have been detained. We express our condolences to all those affected by the tragic deaths and injuries caused by these attacks.

Washington, DC - The United States welcomes reports that Pu Zhiqiang, a prominent Chinese defense lawyer, has been released from detention.

Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I would like to take the opportunity to send my warmest wishes to the Emperor of Japan on the occasion of his birthday, and to congratulate the people of Japan on this national day of celebration.

Baghdad, Iraq - Today at the Iraqi Museum in Baghdad, the U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Jonathan Cohen and Dr. Ahmed Kamil Murad, Acting General Director of the Office of Museums at the Iraqi Ministry of Culture, State Board of Antiquities and Heritage (SBAH) announced the funding of a project for the rehabilitation and preservation of the Ishtar Gate at the remains of the ancient city of Babylon in Iraq.

Havana, Cuba - As she made her way through the busy streets of Havana earlier this year, Ruth Behar stopped to check out some of the new boutiques, cafes, salsa dancing studios and a gelato store.