Today, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken issued a statement to mark the departure of Naz Durakoglu, who has served as the Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. During her tenure, Durakoglu played a pivotal role in advancing key U.S. national security priorities by fostering strong partnerships with Congress and championing critical legislative initiatives.
Secretary Blinken praised Durakoglu for her exceptional leadership and dedication in strengthening the Department of State’s engagement with Congress. Under her guidance, the Bureau of Legislative Affairs successfully reestablished the State Department’s legislative proposals process, facilitating collaboration with both authorizing and appropriations committees. This process proved instrumental in securing crucial benefits for U.S. diplomats and their families, ensuring the Department’s ability to respond swiftly to crises, modernize U.S. diplomacy, and expand American diplomatic presence overseas.
“I extend my deepest thanks to Naz and her family for their extraordinary service,” Secretary Blinken said. “Her work has left an indelible mark on the Department and on U.S. diplomacy as a whole. Naz’s leadership helped us secure essential resources and authorities that ensure the State Department can meet its mission of advancing American interests and security around the world.”
Durakoglu’s team also played a vital role in advocating for the confirmation of U.S. diplomatic nominees in the Senate, ensuring that qualified individuals could assume important roles within the Department, further enhancing the nation’s diplomatic capabilities.
A Legacy of Service and Dedication
Throughout her time at the Department of State, Durakoglu demonstrated a deep commitment to the U.S. government’s legislative process and national security objectives. Her strategic approach to collaboration with Congress helped align the State Department’s priorities with the needs of the American people, ensuring that U.S. foreign policy initiatives remained effective and sustainable.
“Her tireless efforts in advancing U.S. national security priorities and strengthening the Department’s relationship with Congress have been invaluable,” Blinken added. “Her ability to build consensus and advocate for the Department’s interests has played a critical role in the success of U.S. diplomacy.”
Durakoglu’s work in securing vital authorities for the Department also helped streamline diplomatic operations, allowing the U.S. to quickly respond to global crises and bolster American leadership on the world stage.
Looking Ahead
As Durakoglu prepares to return to the Senate next year, Secretary Blinken expressed his gratitude for her service and wished her well in her future endeavors. Her leadership at the State Department will be greatly missed, but her contributions have laid a strong foundation for continued collaboration between the U.S. government and Congress in pursuit of shared national security and foreign policy objectives.
“Naz’s return to the Senate will undoubtedly allow her to continue advocating for the interests of the American people, and I know she will continue to serve with the same dedication and expertise that she brought to the Department of State,” said Blinken.
As Durakoglu prepares for the next chapter in her career, her legacy of bridging the gap between the legislative and executive branches of government will be felt for years to come.