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U.S. Department of State

The U.S. Department of State, often referred to as the State Department, is a federal executive department responsible for implementing the foreign policy of the U.S. and maintaining diplomatic relations with other countries. Its primary role is to advise the President on international affairs, represent the country in the United Nations and other international organizations, negotiate treaties and agreements, and protect U.S. citizens and interests abroad. The department is led by the Secretary of State, the President's top foreign policy advisor, who manages the large diplomatic corps both in Washington, D.C. and in embassies and consulates around the world.