I want to congratulate the citizens of Sao Tome and Principe on the 48th anniversary of your independence on July 12. The United States and Sao Tome and Principe have made important strides in the past year, including partnering on our shared goals of maritime security and creating a more prosperous future for the citizens of Sao Tome and Principe.
I look forward to increasing bilateral cooperation in the coming years, including our shared commitment to democratic governance.