On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I extend warm wishes to the people of Ecuador as you celebrate the 204th anniversary of your country’s independence this August 10.

The United States values our long history of friendship with Ecuador. We look forward to renewed cooperation on common goals, advancing our shared commitment to broadly inclusive and sustainable development.

Building constructive relations on the basis of mutual respect benefits the people of both of our nations.

Ecuador is rich in culture and natural beauty, from the lush green of the Amazon to the historic streets of Quito and Cuenca to the pristine beaches of the coast to the incomparable natural wonders of the Galapagos.

On behalf of the people of the United States, I wish all the people of Ecuador a happy and prosperous year to come.