The U.S. State Department said on Thursday it was calling its furloughed employees back to work next week as it takes steps to pay salaries despite a partial shutdown of the government.
"As a national security agency, it is imperative that the Department of State carries out its mission," Deputy Undersecretary of State Bill Todd said in a statement posted on the department's website. "We are best positioned to do so with fully staffed embassies, consulates and domestic offices."