On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I send my best wishes to the people of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe on the 39^th anniversary of their nation’s independence on July 12.

The United States commends Sao Tome and Principe’s commitment to democratic values and fundamental freedoms, as well as your emergence as an advocate for environmental and security issues in Africa. We are fortunate to have such a valuable partner in the Gulf of Guinea, a region important for both our ocean’s security and energy development.

The United States wishes the people of Sao Tome and Principe a year of prosperity and progress. We look forward to strengthening our mutually beneficial partnership in years to come.