National Archives to Commemorate “Africa Day” on Friday, May 25, 2007
Press Release · Wednesday, May 16, 2007

Washington, DC

Ambassadors from African Nations to tour National Archives

What: African Ambassadors will be introduced to the National Archives in commemoration of Africa Day. A breakfast with the Archivist, briefings, tours and a display of documents demonstrating U.S.-African diplomatic relations will all be part of the morning event. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs R. Nicholas Burns will address Ambassadors from 21 countries including Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa.

When: Friday, May 25, 2007, 8:00-10:30 a.m. 

Schedule:
8 - 9 a.m. - breakfast and introductory remarks 
9 - 10 a.m. - tour of the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom. 
10 - 10:30 a.m. - display of original documents highlighting the United States’ relationship with African countries, and remarks by Ambassador Burns.

Where: Archivist’s Reception Room, National Archives Building, 700 Pennsylvania Ave., NW

Who:

• Archivist of the United States, Allen Weinstein
• Dean of African Ambassadors, His Excellency Roble Olhaye, Ambassador of The Republic of Djibouti
• R. Nicholas Burns, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs
• Michael Hussey, diplomatic records archivist, will provide background and answer questions regarding the documents shown.

Background: 
In 2006, the National Archives, in cooperation with the White House and the State Department, formally established the Distinguished Foreign Visitors Program to extend an open invitation to all foreign dignitaries, including ambassadors, heads of state, and diplomatic organizations, to visit the National Archives. The goal is to impart a greater knowledge of American history, culture and values. Visitors have the opportunity to see the National Archives Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom - the U.S. Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights - and to see a sampling of the National Archives vast holdings that document more than 200 years of diplomatic history. The National Archives holds in trust the official, original copies of diplomatic correspondence, proclamations, ceremonial letters, international agreements and ratified treaties with international countries from 1778 to 1992.

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For Press information, contact the National Archives Public Affairs Staff at (202) 357-5300.

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