Lots of Independence Days in the Americas occur around this time of the year. As we noted yesterday. this holiday weekend is celebrated through most of North America, since Canada Day was today and of course we have The Fourth on Monday. But others are celebrating independence this very weekend, and not all of them in the Americas. So here I am posting Mme. Secretary's lovely statements to some of our friends who are enjoying their own Independence Days this weekend.
N.B. I have not meant to slight anyone or leave any countries out. There are other messages from Secretary Clinton to additional countries that can be accessed here: Secretary Clinton's Remarks.
Rwanda, doing so well to get past ethnic strife and horror.
Rwanda National Day
Remarks
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of StateWashington, DCJuly 1, 2011On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Rwanda as you celebrate 49 years of independence this July 4.
The United States applauds Rwanda for your dedication defending and protecting others. From your support for important resolutions at the United Nations Human Rights Council, to your strong encouragement for United Nations action in Libya, to your devotion to peacekeeping efforts throughout Africa, you are demonstrating your commitment to the security of the region. Rwandan peacekeepers have joined United Nations missions in Sudan, Haiti, Liberia, Chad, and the Central Africa Republic.
Rwanda and the United States share a strong history of friendship and cooperation, and we are committed to deepening this relationship in the years to come. As you gather with family and friends on this special day, know that the United States stands with you. We look forward to strengthening our ties as we work towards common goals in the region.
Cape Verde, where she managed, on her first official trip to Africa as SOS, to take a dip in the ocean (as related by Jonathan Van Meter in Vogue).
Cape Verde National Day
Remarks
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of StateWashington, DCJuly 1, 2011On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Cape Verde on your 36th anniversary of independence this July 5.
Our two countries share a commitment to democracy, good governance, and economic development. Together, we are improving maritime security in the Atlantic, strengthening the rule of law and encouraging investment in Cape Verde. Your achievements in democracy and economic development serve as a model to other nations in West Africa.
As you celebrate your National Day with family and friends, know that the United States is a partner and friend. We are committed to this relationship for a brighter future for all Cape Verdeans.
Venezuela's Independence Day
Remarks
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of StateWashington, DCJuly 1, 2011On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Venezuela as you celebrate 200 years of independence this July 5.
Our two countries share a close history of cooperation and respect. The idea of individual liberty and equality fueled the imaginations of our founders and led us to independence. For years we have honored each other's revolutionary figures and the powerful, lasting legacy they created. All across the United States – in towns, villages, counties, streets, and schools – you will find the name "Bolívar." And in Caracas, the statue in Washington Plaza memorializes the father of American independence.
This bicentennial is an opportunity to reflect on all that you have accomplished as a nation, and on the natural friendship that exists between our peoples. This friendship will continue to flourish as we work toward our shared goals and our commitment to a better future.
I wish all Venezuelan citizens everywhere good health and happiness on this special day and in the year to come.
- U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (L) talks with Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez during a reception for the newly inaugurated Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff at Planalto Palace in Brasilia January 1, 2011. REUTERS/Handout (BRAZIL - Tags: POLITICS) FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NOT FOR SALE FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS. THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY. IT IS DISTRIBUTED, EXACTLY AS RECEIVED BY REUTERS, AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS
There is no love lost between our lovely Secretary of State and the President of Venezuela, but despite his blind eye to vicious, dastardly graffiti about our lovely Hillary on walls in his country, she is gracious and wishes him well.
Clinton Code Translator:
I wish all Venezuelan citizens everywhere good health...
Sorry to hear of your diagnosis of cancer, President Chavez. Wish you well. When you are better, we will resume our debates.
Do you wonder why I love this woman?
