On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate the citizens of Georgia as you celebrate 25 years of independence.

On May 26, we mark a quarter century of friendship and strategic partnership between the United States and Georgia.

We see Georgia as a leading example of democratic progress in the region – an accomplishment all the more notable given the ongoing occupation of 20 percent of your territory.

The United States unequivocally supports Georgia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders as well as its aspirations to integrate into Euro-Atlantic institutions.

We deeply appreciate Georgia's partnership and sacrifice in Afghanistan in support of a better future for the people of that nation and region.

I congratulate the Georgian people on this proud day and look forward to deepening our partnership with a secure, democratic, and independent Georgia in the years to come.