On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of the Republic of Kiribati as you celebrate your nation’s independence this July 12.
Following Kiribati’s independence in 1979, a treaty of friendship was signed between our two countries and throughout the last 32 years our two nations have grown even closer. Today, we are working together to curb the effects of climate change, manage our fisheries in sustainable ways, and support regional security through our Shiprider agreement. Just last month, a United States Government delegation represented by Assistant Secretary Kurt Campbell, USAID Assistant Administrator Nisha Biswal, Brigadier General Richard Simcock and Admiral Patrick Walsh traveled to Kiribati to discuss a wide range of issues of mutual concern.
The United States is committed to this relationship and to a brighter future for all our people. We wish everyone in Kiribati a happy holiday celebration and continued peace and prosperity in the coming year.
