On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Guinea on the occasion of your 52nd national day this October 2.
This year Guinea has taken the first important steps toward democratic elections. We are encouraged by this progress and look forward to the peaceful fulfillment of the second round of presidential voting. Guinean democracy, peace, and stability have been delayed for over 50 years. The people of Guinea deserve the opportunity to cast their ballots in this historic election, choose their leaders, and fully participate in their government. The United States is deeply committed to working with the Guinean people to achieve these goals.
On this festive occasion, we reaffirm the friendship between our people and our hopes for a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic future for the people of Guinea.
