The Department of STATE is a federal executive department of the United States government responsible for international relations. It is led by the Secretary of STATE, who is nominated by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate. The Department of STATE is responsible for the protection of U.S. citizens abroad and the development of foreign policy. It also provides assistance to other countries in areas such as economic development, humanitarian aid, and security. The Department of STATE is also responsible for issuing passports and visas to foreign nationals.