(CNN) For the fourth consecutive year, first lady Melania Trump on Wednesday attended the International Women of Courage Awards at the State Department.

"I continue to be inspired by the personal stories that accompany each of these extraordinary women," Trump said during opening remarks. "Courage is something that is not easily taught and is closely tied with bravery, humility and sacrifice."

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo also spoke.

This year's twelve recipients include Sayragul Sauytbay, a Chinese doctor forced by the Chinese Communist Party to teach Chinese to Muslims in a detention camp, ultimately fleeing and using her platform to be among the first to speak publicly against the Chinese government's repressive campaign against Muslims. Also, Amina Khoulani of Syria, a civil rights leader who survived an Assad regime detention center, emerging as founder of "Families for Freedom," a women-led organization for families whose loved ones have disappeared or been detained in Syria.

Toward the end of the program, awardee Zarifa Ghafari of Afghanistan, gave remarks on behalf of the entire group. At 26, Ghafari became mayor of a town in Wardak province, despite opposition and risk from male colleagues and constituents. She pleaded directly with Trump and Pompeo to not forget the ongoing efforts of women in her region as the United States moves to attempt to negotiate peace with the Taliban

Read More