Washington, DC - John J. Sullivan Deputy Secretary of State: "As spring arrives, I wish the people of Iran and everyone who celebrates this wonderful tradition a happy Nowruz.

"Today, I offer my best wishes to all of the communities here in the United States, as well as in Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, China, Georgia, India, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Syria, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and around the globe as they gather around the Haftsin, cooking, feasting, dancing, singing, and spending time with family and friends.

"Nowruz is a time to take stock of recent events. In the past year, I have drawn inspiration from the Iranian people who are making their voices heard by protesting for freedom, dignity, and respect for human rights. The United States supports those seeking to reclaim their fundamental freedoms of expression, religion, and peaceful assembly.

"Finally, Nowruz is a time to reflect on our hopes for the future. May the coming year bring peace, freedom, and prosperity to all."