On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of St. Lucia as they commemorate their 31st anniversary of independence on February 22. As the streets fill with Calypso music and festivities, we join all St. Lucians in honoring their culture and heritage. Our two nations are united by shared democratic values and our hopes for a peaceful and prosperous future for all our people. We are working together to promote security, advance human rights and democracy, and create economic opportunity across the region and beyond. We appreciate St. Lucia's leadership, particularly at the United Nations, on many of our common challenges. On this festive occasion, let me reaffirm the commitment of the United States to deepen and strengthen our partnership and offer warmest wishes for a safe and happy holiday.
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