Monday, August 13, 2012

Hillary Clinton's Independence Day Greetings to Congo, India, Korea, and Pakistan

Mme. Secretary released four independence day messages today. I only post these when there is some added significance.  We want and need Pakistan and India to get along, and we need Pakistan to work together with Afghanistan.   We also want Korea and Japan to get along, but they are having a tiff.  Congo - their crisis is internal.  Here are the messages in alphabetical order.

Republic of Congo's National Day

Press Statement
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
August 13, 2012

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 Congo as you celebrate 52 years of independence this August 15.
Our two countries have enjoyed a close friendship, working together on many issues from improving transparency, to combating trafficking in persons, promoting environmental stewardship, and enhancing regional security.
I want to send my deepest condolences to the Congolese people for the explosions in Brazzaville in March this year that resulted in loss of life and property and the displacement of thousands of citizens. We look forward to the return of all internally displaced people to safe and permanent homes. And we remain committed to supporting the Republic of Congo in its efforts to make that a reality.
As you celebrate your independence day, know that the United States stands with you as a partner and friend. We look forward to working together to ensure peace and prosperity for all people in the Republic of Congo.

India Independence Day

Press Statement
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
August 13, 2012

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 India as you celebrate your Independence Day this August 15.
Through my many visits to India, I have been impressed with the creativity of the Indian people, the richness of your culture, and the resilience and strength of your democratic institutions. From the freedom movement led by Mahatma Gandhi to independence in 1947 through today, India continues to stand as a beacon for the world of the power of nonviolence and the promise of democracy. The United States stands side by side with India in a strategic, indispensable partnership built on our shared democratic values and fundamental belief in the entrepreneurial spirit. Our governments and our people will continue to work together to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities of the 21st century, laying the foundation for continued peace and prosperity in Asia and around the world.
As you celebrate this special day with family, friends and loved ones, know that the United States stands with you as a partner and friend.

Republic of Korea Independence Day

Remarks
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
August 13, 2012

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 Korea as you celebrate the anniversary of your independence this August 15.
The United States and the Republic of Korea share a long history of friendship and cooperation based on common values and interests. From combating regional and global threats, to strengthening our economies, to enhancing people-to-people ties between our two nations, we are working together toward a better future for both our countries and the world.
As you celebrate this important day with family, friends, and loved ones, know that the United States stands with you as an ally and friend. To Korean people all over the world: I wish you the very best on this special day and in the year to come.

Pakistan Independence Day

Remarks
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
August 13, 2012

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the government and people of Pakistan as you celebrate the anniversary of your independence this August 14. Since 1947, Pakistan has persevered in the face of immense challenges to build upon the democratic ideals of your country’s founders. Today, we take time to honor your sacrifices and renew our support for a stable and secure Pakistan for generations to come.
Muhammad Ali Jinnah dreamt of a vibrant, self-reliant Pakistan – a goal we all share. As Muslims around the world reflect upon the meaning of community and sacrifice during this holy month of Ramadan, the United States celebrates the hardworking Pakistanis who strive to fulfill Jinnah’s vision of a stable, secure, and prosperous Pakistan.
And here is a picture just for the heck of it.   This is from the evening she arrived in Ghana.  I never had a chance to post it, and I knew people here would love it.

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is introduced to Lordina Mahama, wife of Ghana President John Dramani Mahama, and their daughter, in Accra, Ghana, on Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012. On Friday Clinton will attend the funeral of Ghana's late President John Atta Mills. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, Pool)