Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State
On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States of America, I offer my sincere congratulations to the Namibian people as you celebrate 34 years of independence on March 21.
The United States values the enduring partnership and friendship between our people, rooted in our mutual commitment to democratic principles, human rights, and good governance. Together, we are working to build a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous future for th
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Home On the Anniversary of the Election of His Holiness Pope Francis Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Francis on the eleventh anniversary of his election to the See of Rome. The United States and the Holy See are united by common values such as respect for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression, as well as dignity for all. We continue to work together to address the challenges of climate change, hum Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Secretary Antony J. Blinken Receives Sweden’s NATO Instruments of Accession Before Meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Home Bulgaria National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, please accept my best wishes to the people of Bulgaria on the 146th anniversary of the Day of Liberation of Bulgaria. The United States deeply values our more than 120 years of diplomatic relations with Bulgaria. Our partnership, based on shared democratic ideals, fosters peace and prosperity for both our nations and contributes to the unity and security of Europe and the transatlantic community. We reco Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bulgaria , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Energy The Gambia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of The Gambia on the 59th anniversary of your independence. On this occasion, we reaffirm our enduring partnership and friendship with the people and government of The Gambia. I look forward to expanding our close partnership on a wide range of initiatives which aim to strengthen democracy, advance gender equality, promote human rights, support regiona Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, And Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar At the Munich Security Conference Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Munich, Germany Bayerischer Hof MODERATOR: (In progress) for Germany. Welcome. (Applause.) Antony Blinken, Secretary of State of the U.S. (Applause.) Nice to have you. And Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, Republic of India. Minister. (Applause.) I hope that based on the topic of the session that you will not all agree with each other and we can have some sparks. We have about 43 Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: China, India , Iran , Israel , Italy , Russia , South Africa , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Countering Terrorism, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Lithuania National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people of Lithuania as you celebrate your independence. As President Biden said in his July 12 speech at Vilnius University, “Lithuania stands today as a stronghold of liberty and opportunity, a proud member of the European Union and NATO.” This year, you will celebrate the 20th anniversary of your membership in both organizations, marking your important par Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Lithuania , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Israeli President Herzog Before Their Meeting Home New Zealand National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my best wishes to the people of Aotearoa New Zealand as you commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6. The United States recognizes the significance of this day and the ongoing dialogue it inspires. We reaffirm our shared commitment to diversity and building a more equitable future for all.< Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: New Zealand , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Nauru National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to extend my congratulations to the Republic of Nauru as it celebrates the 56th anniversary of its independence. As proud members of a common Pacific family, the United States and Nauru share a history of democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. We will continue to work together to address the shared challenges facing our two countries, including confronting the climate crisis, advancing econo Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Nauru , United States Topics: Climate and Environment India National Day On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of India on India’s Republic Day. The Constitution of India continues to provide an enduring framework for the world’s largest democracy and a foundation for its global leadership. As President Biden has said, our relationship with India is one of the most consequential in the world. The past year has been marked by important milestones in our Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, including our cooperation throughout In Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: India , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken With RTI Ivorian TV Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire Africa Cup of Nations at Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara D'Ebimpé Via Translation QUESTION: Hello everyone, and welcome to this exceptional edition. As you may have understood, we are outside the premises of RTI, with an exceptional guest. Indeed, Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, is currently in Côte d’Ivoire as part of his African tour. He has granted us an interview, an exclusive by Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , Nigeria , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health Secretary Blinken and Cabo Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Cabo Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva Praia, Cabo Verde PRIME MINISTER SILVA: (Via interpreter) Good morning, Your Excellency Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Welcome to Cabo Verde. A special visit of yours to Cabo Verde, to the city of Praia, strengthens our excellent relations between Cabo Verde and United States of America. This visit to four African count Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cabo Verde , Israel , Nigeria , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Countering Terrorism, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Israeli President Isaac Herzog Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Tel Aviv, Israel David Kempinski Hotel PRESIDENT HERZOG: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Good morning, Secretary Blinken. As always, it’s such a pleasure to have you in Israel. This is your fourth trip already in this Gaza war, and we are very grateful to you for your support and for your steadfast commitment to Israel’s safety and to making sure that Israel wins this war, because it’s a war that affects international values and th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Israel , South Africa , United States Topics: Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani at a Joint Press Availability Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Doha, Qatar Diwan Annex PRIME MINISTER AL THANI: (Via interpreter) In the name of Allah, peace and blessings be upon you. I would like to welcome His Excellency Mr. Antony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State, in Doha. In our meeting today, we have discussed the most significant development in the region – on top of them, the war that continued for three month in Gaza and the Palestinian occupied territory, with all its political, hu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: France , Iran , Iraq , Israel , Lebanon , Qatar , Syria , United States , West Bank Topics: Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Qatar National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our best wishes to the State of Qatar as you celebrate your National Day. I am thankful for Qatar’s continuing friendship and partnership, which continues to broaden and deepen to the benefit of both countries. I want to express my gratitude for Qatar’s key role as a mediator in efforts to secure the release of unjustly detained Americans in Iran in September, and hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. These Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Iran , Qatar , United States Niger National Day Home Bhutan National Day Home Bahrain National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our best wishes to His Majesty King Hamad and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain on their National Day. This year the United States and Bahrain further strengthened our historic partnership and friendship through our third Strategic Dialogue and the signing of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement. I look forward to deepening our security and economic ties as we work togethe Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bahrain , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Science, Technology, and Innovation Burkina Faso National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I congratulate the people of Burkina Faso on the 63rd anniversary of your independence. The United States recognizes the many sacrifices and lives lost due to terrorist violence and offers its heartfelt condolences. Despite the significant challenges Burkina Faso has faced this year in the fight against violent extremism, the resilience and determination of the Burkinabe peop Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Burkina Faso , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy Finland National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to Finland on the celebration of its 106th anniversary of independence. Finland stands as a cherished and enduring partner, buttressed by the shared pillars of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Our partnership is a testament to the strength derived from these fundamental principles. This year holds particular significance for our relationship, as Finland acceded to the Washing Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Finland , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Thailand National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the Kingdom of Thailand as it celebrates Thai National Day on December 5. This year, the United States and Thailand celebrated 190 years of diplomatic relations—a testament to the strength of our enduring alliance. We welcomed Thailand’s new government, and we will continue to deepen our bilateral relationship. In the comin Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Thailand , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health United Arab Emirates National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, and to all our partners and friends in the UAE our congratulations on the UAE’s National Day. The United States and the UAE are bound together by more than five decades of friendship and partnership. Our many successes stand as a testament to our leaders’ shared commitment to advance regional peace and stabi Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United Arab Emirates , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Laos National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Laos on the 48th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The United States looks forward to continuing its work with the Lao government to grow our relationship and support the Lao upcoming ASEAN chair year. We will continue to build strong ties through increased people-to-people exchanges, support for Laos’s development objectives, and furth Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Laos , United States Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Brussels, Belgium NATO Headquarters SECRETARY BLINKEN: Hello, everyone. It is always great to be with my friend, my colleague, Dmytro Kuleba, but especially good here at – to be here at NATO and sitting around the table together and making sure and making clear – as we heard from every single country around the NATO table – our enduring commitment to Ukraine, to making sure that Ukraine has what it needs to defend itself against Russian Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy The Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I send my best wishes to the government and people of Mauritania as you celebrate 63 years of independence. Mauritania has shown an active commitment to civilian-led, democratic government and is a strong regional security partner. The United States appreciates the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Mauritania , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Bosnia and Herzegovina Statehood Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina on marking Statehood Day. The United States has been your enduring partner for over three decades and remains firmly committed to protecting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character. We will continue to work with institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance the reforms necessary to help secure your country’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Latvia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of Latvia as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of your independence. The strong, vital partnership between Latvia and the United States is rooted in a shared commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and mutual respect. Together we are committed to maintaining steadfast support for Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its unprovoked war. As NATO Allies, La Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Latvia , Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Oman National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warmest congratulations to the people of Oman on the occasion of your National Day. Our warm and enduring friendship dates back to the earliest days of our republic. We value our history of cooperation, especially the work we undertake together to promote security, stability, peace, and prosperity in the region. We celebrate the success of the inaugural U.S.-Oman Strategic Dialogue earlier this year Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Oman , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State San Francisco, California Moscone Center SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon, everyone. Prime Minister, (inaudible) hospitality (inaudible) economic and security partner. We’re also working very closely together here (inaudible) good week. And day in day out, we are working to Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Guinea , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Angolan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Angola a heartfelt congratulations on the 48th anniversary of your independence. I am appreciative of the ways that the United States and Angola have expanded our partnership, especially in the past year. From the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, to increased security cooperation, to the ways that U.S. companies are finding success in Angola, the U.S.-Angola relationship is strong and growing. Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Angola , United States Cambodia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Cambodia as you honor the 70th year of your nation’s independence. The United States will continue to work with Cambodia’s government to advance a shared vision of a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region. We will continue to build strong ties between our peoples, including through educational exchanges, support for the preservation of cultural heritage, Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cambodia , United States Antigua and Barbuda National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate Antigua and Barbuda on the 42nd anniversary of your Independence Day. Our countries share a commitment to democracy and a desire to promote a safe, resilient, and prosperous Caribbean region. Through the U.S.-Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, we have made great strides in combating drugs and weapons trafficking, and under the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken at the Swearing-in Ceremony for the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement HomeThe Secretary of State Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malawi , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health, Science, Technology, and Innovation Czech Republic National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I offer my sincere congratulations to the people and government of the Czech Republic as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of the founding of a free and democratic Czechoslovakia. Our nations share a deep friendship and an abiding commitment to democracy and the rule of law. We stand united in our support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s war of aggression. The Czech Republic has demonstrated that commitmen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Czech Republic , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Kazakhstan’s Republic Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warmest wishes to the people of Kazakhstan as they celebrate Republic Day on October 25. As the people of Kazakhstan on this day commemorate their declaration of sovereignty, we reaffirm the United States’ commitment to Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We commend Kazakhstan’s steadfast leadership since independence in advancing global dialogue and ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Kazakhstan , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Zambia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer my warm congratulations to the people of Zambia on your 59th Independence Day celebration. The United States remains committed to strengthening our partnership with Zambia, built on our shared commitment to democracy, inclusive economic growth, security cooperation, and health security. Today provides a joyous oc Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zambia Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Equatorial Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to Equatorial Guinea in honor of the 55th anniversary of your independence on October 12. The United States values our relationship with Equatorial Guinea, and we remain committed in our partnership to combat trafficking in persons, develop the initiative on Atlantic Cooperation, and promote maritime security and economic growth. In the coming year, we look forward Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Spain National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warmest congratulations to the people of Spain as you celebrate your National Day. Spain is a close ally and a friend with whom we tackle a vast number of urgent global issues. Our friendship is based on shared values and interests such as the fight against climate change, the defence of democracy, and a commitment to an international rules-based order. The United States is grateful for Spain’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Russia , Spain , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Fiji National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to congratulate the people of Fiji as you celebrate 53 years of independence on October 10. Since 1970, Fiji and the United States have worked together towards a free, open, and resilient Pacific. Together, we are responding to the climate crisis; countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; addressing regional security concerns; and fostering economic development. The United States appreci Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Fiji , United States Topics: Climate and Environment Ugandan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Uganda on the 61st anniversary of Uganda’s independence. Over the last 61 years, the American and Ugandan people have partnered to advance health, regional security, economic investment, agriculture, and education. The United States continues to support Ugandans in the pursuit of democracy, respect for human rights, peace, and prosperity for all. Iraq National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States of America, I extend to Prime Minister Sudani and the Iraqi people our sincere congratulations as you celebrate your independence. The 360-degree strategic partnership that exists between our two countries continues to advance our shared values as we work together to address global challenges like tackling climate change, promoting economic development, advancing human rights, protecting th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Iraq , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Day of German Unity Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of Germany as they celebrate 33 years of reunification on this German Unity Day. The American and German people share an inherent commitment to defend and promote democratic institutions, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. Over the years, our friendship has grown into a multi-faceted partnership. Today, the United States views Germany as a key G7 partner, vital NATO Ally Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Germany , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Guinea on the 65th anniversary of your independence. The United States continues to stand with the people of Guinea in their aspirations for democracy. We support the Guinean people in their pursuit of the return of a democratically-elected, civilian-led government, and we reaffirm our commitment to helping achieve that goal throughout this period of transition. On this occas Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Cyprus National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of Cyprus as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your nation’s independence. The Republic of Cyprus and the United States are partners in pursuit of a more peaceful and prosperous world and share a commitment to democracy, freedom, and human dignity. The bonds between our nations have never been stronger, and we look forward to further deepening the full ra Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cyprus , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Nigeria National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Nigeria on the 63rd anniversary of your independence. The United States and Nigeria have built a strong partnership based on our shared values and common pursuit of a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure world. The United States is committed to strengthening our partnership and continuing to work together to promote inclusive economic growth, safeguard human rights, and combat inse Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Nigeria , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Celebration of Chuseok Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to all Korean people as they celebrate the joyous occasion of Chuseok. This special holiday, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, brings families, friends, and communities together. We are reminded of the enduring spirit of friendship and cooperation that strengthens the bond between our two nations. During this Chuseok holiday, may the spirit of camaraderie and shared val Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Turkmenistan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Turkmenistan as they celebrate Turkmenistan’s National Day on September 27. The United States maintains an enduring commitment to Turkmenistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rooted in your country’s principle of positive neutrality. As we reflect on our bilateral achievements during the past year, we look to our 32nd year of diplomatic rela Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Turkmenistan , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken And South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone. It’s always a great pleasure to be with my colleague and my friend Foreign Minister Pandor. We’ve had many opportunities over the last couple of years to work closely together, quite literally around the world. But it’s particularly gratifying to have the foreign minister here at the State Department in Washington. South Africa is a vital an Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: South Africa , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Treaties and International Agreements Secretary Antony J. Blinken At a Joint Statement Signing Ceremony with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Washington, DC Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good evening, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be here with Prime Minister Brown, and a particular pleasure because of the reason we’re here. When we had the initial summit with our Pacific Island partners back in 2022, President Biden announced his intent to recognize the Cook Islands. And today, with the exchange of letters signed by t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cook Islands , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Malta National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malta as you celebrate 59 years of independence. The United States values its longstanding friendship with Malta, which started at the founding of our nation more than two centuries ago. We are grateful for Malta’s efforts in support of transatlantic and European values, including strong support for Ukraine and its sovereignty in the face of Russia’s aggression. We Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malta , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Armenia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send best wishes to the people of Armenia on your Independence Day. Armenia put itself on a path towards freedom and self-determination when it declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, we have seen your commitment to democratic values, to developing and strengthening human rights, rule of law, economy, and justice for all Armenians. These values echo our own and we are proud to partner with A Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Armenia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tajikistan Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I share my best wishes to the people of Tajikistan as they mark 32 years of independence on September 9. The United States reaffirms our commitment to supporting Tajikistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We are proud to continue to strengthen our partnership through economic linkages, expanding people-to-people ties, supporting civil society, and bolstering cooperation Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tajikistan , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy North Macedonia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of North Macedonia as you celebrate 32 years of independence. The United States supports North Macedonia in making reforms to integrate into the European Union and forging ever stronger relations with neighboring European countries. North Macedonia has made great strides to ensure the prosperity of all its citizens while facing global challenges, and we stand with you in your ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Brazil National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Brazil on the 201st anniversary of its independence this September 7th. Brazil and the United States proudly stand together as vibrant and diverse democracies. We strongly value our joint commitment to address regional and global challenges, promote social and economic inclusion, and combat climate change to create a just, equitable, and sustainable environment where all our citizen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Brazil , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Eswatini National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate all Eswatini on 55 years of independence. As you mark this momentous occasion, let us also celebrate the strong friendship between our two nations. We honor our progress on health, climate change adaptation, and addressing a period of unrest. This collaboration has only strengthened the relationship between the United States and Eswatini as we hope for democratic elections followed by an inclusive natio Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Trinidad and Tobago National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Trinidad and Tobago as you celebrate 61 years of independence. As we consider the challenges and opportunities this year will bring, the United States looks forward to working with Trinidad and Tobago as steadfast allies and partners, united by our common values of resiliency, diversity, and democracy. We also look forward to broadening our cooperation under the Caribbean Basin Secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Kyrgyz Republic Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I warmly wish the people of the Kyrgyz Republic a joyous Kyrgyz Independence Day on August 31. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Kyrgyz Republic’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. We look to the future with hope as we continue to strengthen our economic, security, and people-to-people ties, increase women’s economic security, and expand our clean energy cooperat Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Energy Malaysia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malaysia on the occasion of your National Day on August 31. The United States appreciates the past 66 years of Malaysia’s friendship and cooperation. Together, our shared values and deep economic, security, and people-to-people ties have strengthened our bilateral relationship and set the foundation for a prosperous and stable future. We sincerely look forward to m Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malaysia , United States Moldova National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend a warm congratulations to Moldova and its people on 32 years of independence from the Soviet Union. The United States values Moldova’s shared commitment to strengthen democratic institutions and judicial reforms, foster economic growth, enhance its security, and promote respect for human rights. We look forward to continuing this partnership, including through the U.S.-Moldova Strategic Dialogue, and s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Moldova , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Hungary’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Hungary a happy Saint Stephen’s Day as you celebrate over a thousand years of history as a nation. The American and Hungarian people are united in our fundamental commitment to democratic values and rule of law, collective security, and prosperity. It is on this basis that we look forward to increasing our cooperation on shared challenges at an important moment. The relationship bet Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Hungary , United States Indonesia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to the people of Indonesia on the occasion of your Independence Day. The United States and Indonesia enjoy a strong strategic partnership enhanced by our shared commitment to democracy and the close ties between our peoples. I commend Indonesia’s work in facilitating growth and building a resilient future through your Chairmanship of ASEAN this year. I was pleased to participate in Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Indonesia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Liechtenstein’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my most heartfelt congratulations as Liechtenstein marks its National Day. Our partnership is based on our shared commitment to freedom, advancing human rights, and economic prosperity. We commend your efforts in the pursuit of a safer economic arena including by combating illegal banking activities, as well as your support for Ukrainian refugees. Happy National Day, and I look forward to our cont Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liechtenstein , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Indian Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, we send our warmest wishes to the people of India as they commemorate 76 years of independence this August 15. On this momentous day, we reflect on the depth and breadth of our strategic partnership, and we celebrate the proud history of the Indian people, who are the key to the bright future we are building together. This last year has shown that the U.S.-India relationship is deeper and more expansive than ev Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: India , United States Republic of Korea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my warm congratulations to the Republic of Korea as you celebrate your National Day. Today, I want to reaffirm the strength of our Alliance in its 70th year and celebrate our strategic partnership, acknowledging the shared values that form the foundation of our strong bond. The United States remains committed to achieving a truly global partnership between our countries, including by Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Chad National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of the Republic of Chad as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your independence. Our two countries share more than six decades of collaboration on shared priorities. We support the people of Chad in their pursuit of an inclusive democratic transition, leading to free and fair elections that reflect the will of the Chadian people. As Chad pursues this transition, we re Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Chad , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Singapore National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I wish to congratulate the people of Singapore on the occasion of your National Day. The United States and Singapore enjoy a long friendship built upon our shared interests and commitment for a prosperous, secure, and collaborative future. Our enduring strategic partnership is strengthened by our exceptional defense and security ties, deep trade relations, and thriving connections betwee Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Singapore , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Benin National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Benin on marking 63 years of independence. On this national day, we reaffirm the historical bonds between the United States and Benin. Our longstanding partnership is based on our mutual interest in democracy, maintaining regional security, and promoting economic growth. The United States will continue to stand with Benin to promote our shared values. I extend t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Benin , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Vanuatu National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I extend my greetings and warm congratulations to you and the ni-Vanuatu in celebration of your National Day on July 30. For many decades, our shared stories in the Pacific have been connected through past challenges and future hopes. Since the reopening last year of borders which the pandemic had closed, we have worked diligently to reconnect our two countries, and I am excited for Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Morocco Throne Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and citizens of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes and congratulations to his Majesty King Mohammed VI and the people of Morocco as you celebrate Throne Day and the 24th Anniversary of his Majesty’s accession. Our deep and abiding relationship continues to be a pillar of peace and stability for our two countries and the region. We commend King Mohammed VI for his role in furthering regional stability, secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Morocco , United States Republic of Peru National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the Peruvian people on the anniversary of Peru’s independence. The ties between our nations began in 1826, and our relationship today remains strong as we work together to create opportunities for inclusive economic growth and uphold our commitments to democracy and human rights. We look forward to our continued collaboration, including through the Americas Partnership for Economic Pr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Peru , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Liberia National Day Message Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Liberia as you mark your 176th year of independence. The United States and Liberia share a strong bond stemming from our shared history and cultural ties. We remain committed to work with Liberia and re-emphasize our shared values in democracy, human rights, economic development and the environment. Please accept my best wishes to the people of Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liberia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku at a Joint Press Availability Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State PRIME MINISTER HU’AKAVAMEILIKU: (In Tongan.) It is a great honor to warmly welcome to the Kingdom of Tonga the Secretary of State of the United States of America, Mr. Antony Blinken. The visit today by Secretary Blinken is historic. It is the first visit by a sitting U.S. secretary of state to Tonga. It is the highest-level visit we have received from the United States Government in our recent history. There is a clear indication t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Afghanistan, China, Guinea , Indonesia , Israel , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , Solomon Islands , Tonga , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Maldives Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to extend my congratulations and best wishes to Maldives on your Independence Day this July 26th. As you celebrate this important day, Maldives has many reasons to be proud. Your country is a strong supporter of democratic values and an important voice in maintaining the international rules-based order. The relationship between the United States and Maldives is based on shared values of democracy, Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Maldives , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Belgium’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of the Kingdom of Belgium as you celebrate your National Day. Our deep friendship with Belgium is based on our common values and strong commitment to democracy. We have stood shoulder to shoulder in shared sacrifice during two world wars. As founding members of NATO, we established a cornerstone of peace, prosperity, and stability, which the Transatlantic Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Belgium , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy Zimbabwe National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the Zimbabwean people as you celebrate the 43rd anniversary of your independence. The United States remains committed to standing with the people of Zimbabwe, as we have since your independence in 1980, to work together to promote democratic institutions, equitable economic growth, public health, and food security. Zimbabwe has the chance to set itself on a path to promot Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zimbabwe Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Khmer New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I wish all Cambodians celebrating Khmer New Year good health, peace, and good fortune. Khmer New Year is time of reflection. As we review our accomplishments over the past year and the important work that remains, we look forward to continuing to engage with our Cambodian friends and partners to further strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and the Kingdom of Ca Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cambodia , United States Thailand New Year – Songkran Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I wish the people of the Kingdom of Thailand a peaceful and prosperous new year ahead on the occasion of Songkran on April 13. As the United States and Thailand commemorate 190 years of diplomatic ties, I am proud that our alliance and partnership are stronger than ever. Together, we have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic and are seizing every opportunity to deepen and expand our t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Thailand , United States Topics: Coronavirus (COVID-19), Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health Lao New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warm regards to the Lao people as you celebrate Lao New Year this week. The United States greatly values our growing partnership with Laos and our shared commitment to build a stronger future for both our countries. Our bonds will continue to grow as we advance our shared priorities together, including strengthened people-to-people ties, expanded trade and investment, and a commitment to sovereignty Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Laos , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Burma New Year 2023 – Thingyan Festival Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I convey my best wishes to and solidarity with the people of Burma as they mark Burma’s New Year, Thingyan. Thingyan is a time of renewal and an opportunity to reflect on the values of peace and prosperity, to which the people of Burma aspire in their own lives and for their country. In the face of the military regime’s horrific campaign of widespread violence, the United States rem Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Burma , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken at Finland’s NATO Instruments of Accession Ceremony Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Brussels, Belgium NATO Headquarters SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, Secretary General, Mr. Minister, I’m delighted to report that just a few moments ago, Türkiye deposited with me, on behalf of the United States, Türkiye’s ratification of the instrument of acceding to the protocol for Finland’s accession to NATO. And with the receipt and submission of that protocol, I can say that the protocol is now in force. SECRETARY Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Finland , United States Topics: Treaties and International Agreements Bangladesh Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to convey my warmest congratulations to the people of Bangladesh on your Independence Day. As you celebrate your 53rd Independence Day, Bangladesh has many reasons to be proud. With a rapidly growing economy, an increasingly well-educated workforce, and a dynamic youth demographic, Bangladesh is quickly becoming a regional leader. By generously welcoming Rohingya fleeing genocide, you have demonstr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bangladesh , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Greece Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Greece and Greeks around the world as you celebrate the 202nd anniversary of the founding of the Hellenic Republic. As I reflect on the previous year, I am proud to say that the partnership between the United States and Greece and the ties between our peoples have never been stronger. The United States views Greece as an indispensable partner and NATO Al Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Greece , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tunisia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of Tunisia on the 67th anniversary of their nation’s independence. As Tunisians mark more than 12 years since their revolution, the United States remains deeply committed to the fundamental freedoms, democratic institutions, and inclusive political dialogue that both Americans and Tunisians have fought hard to achieve. We also stand by Tunisians as th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tunisia , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Occasion of St. Patrick’s Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Ireland, and all those celebrating around the world, a happy and healthy St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the Emerald Isle’s rich heritage and culture and reflect on the partnership between our countries and friendship between our people. The United States and Ireland cooperate closely in every sphere, bound by our shared love of freedom, democracy, and h Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Ireland , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tunisian President Kais Saied Before Their Meeting Topics Anti-Corruption and Transparency Arms Control and Nonproliferation Climate and Environment Combating Drugs and Crime Coronavirus (COVID-19) Countering Terrorism Cyber Issues Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Energy Global Health Global Women's Issues Human Rights and Democracy Human Trafficking Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Science, Technology, and Innovation SG Security The Ocean and Polar Affairs Treaties and International Agreements Loading...
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Francis on the eleventh anniversary of his election to the See of Rome.
The United States and the Holy See are united by common values such as respect for human rights, including freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression, as well as dignity for all. We continue to work together to address the challenges of climate change, hum
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Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance
On behalf of the United States of America, please accept my best wishes to the people of Bulgaria on the 146th anniversary of the Day of Liberation of Bulgaria.
The United States deeply values our more than 120 years of diplomatic relations with Bulgaria. Our partnership, based on shared democratic ideals, fosters peace and prosperity for both our nations and contributes to the unity and security of Europe and the transatlantic community.
We reco
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Topics: Energy
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of The Gambia on the 59th anniversary of your independence.
On this occasion, we reaffirm our enduring partnership and friendship with the people and government of The Gambia. I look forward to expanding our close partnership on a wide range of initiatives which aim to strengthen democracy, advance gender equality, promote human rights, support regiona
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Munich, Germany
Bayerischer Hof
MODERATOR: (In progress) for Germany. Welcome. (Applause.)
Antony Blinken, Secretary of State of the U.S. (Applause.) Nice to have you.
And Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, Republic of India. Minister. (Applause.)
I hope that based on the topic of the session that you will not all agree with each other and we can have some sparks. We have about 43
Regions: China, India , Iran , Israel , Italy , Russia , South Africa , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Countering Terrorism, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend heartfelt congratulations to the people of Lithuania as you celebrate your independence.
As President Biden said in his July 12 speech at Vilnius University, “Lithuania stands today as a stronghold of liberty and opportunity, a proud member of the European Union and NATO.” This year, you will celebrate the 20th anniversary of your membership in both organizations, marking your important par
Regions: Lithuania , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
Home New Zealand National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my best wishes to the people of Aotearoa New Zealand as you commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6. The United States recognizes the significance of this day and the ongoing dialogue it inspires. We reaffirm our shared commitment to diversity and building a more equitable future for all.< Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: New Zealand , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Nauru National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to extend my congratulations to the Republic of Nauru as it celebrates the 56th anniversary of its independence. As proud members of a common Pacific family, the United States and Nauru share a history of democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. We will continue to work together to address the shared challenges facing our two countries, including confronting the climate crisis, advancing econo Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Nauru , United States Topics: Climate and Environment India National Day On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of India on India’s Republic Day. The Constitution of India continues to provide an enduring framework for the world’s largest democracy and a foundation for its global leadership. As President Biden has said, our relationship with India is one of the most consequential in the world. The past year has been marked by important milestones in our Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, including our cooperation throughout In Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: India , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken With RTI Ivorian TV Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire Africa Cup of Nations at Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara D'Ebimpé Via Translation QUESTION: Hello everyone, and welcome to this exceptional edition. As you may have understood, we are outside the premises of RTI, with an exceptional guest. Indeed, Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, is currently in Côte d’Ivoire as part of his African tour. He has granted us an interview, an exclusive by Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , Nigeria , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health Secretary Blinken and Cabo Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Cabo Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva Praia, Cabo Verde PRIME MINISTER SILVA: (Via interpreter) Good morning, Your Excellency Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Welcome to Cabo Verde. A special visit of yours to Cabo Verde, to the city of Praia, strengthens our excellent relations between Cabo Verde and United States of America. This visit to four African count Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cabo Verde , Israel , Nigeria , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Countering Terrorism, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Israeli President Isaac Herzog Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Tel Aviv, Israel David Kempinski Hotel PRESIDENT HERZOG: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Good morning, Secretary Blinken. As always, it’s such a pleasure to have you in Israel. This is your fourth trip already in this Gaza war, and we are very grateful to you for your support and for your steadfast commitment to Israel’s safety and to making sure that Israel wins this war, because it’s a war that affects international values and th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Israel , South Africa , United States Topics: Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Qatari Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani at a Joint Press Availability Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Doha, Qatar Diwan Annex PRIME MINISTER AL THANI: (Via interpreter) In the name of Allah, peace and blessings be upon you. I would like to welcome His Excellency Mr. Antony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State, in Doha. In our meeting today, we have discussed the most significant development in the region – on top of them, the war that continued for three month in Gaza and the Palestinian occupied territory, with all its political, hu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: France , Iran , Iraq , Israel , Lebanon , Qatar , Syria , United States , West Bank Topics: Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Qatar National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our best wishes to the State of Qatar as you celebrate your National Day. I am thankful for Qatar’s continuing friendship and partnership, which continues to broaden and deepen to the benefit of both countries. I want to express my gratitude for Qatar’s key role as a mediator in efforts to secure the release of unjustly detained Americans in Iran in September, and hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. These Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Iran , Qatar , United States Niger National Day Home Bhutan National Day Home Bahrain National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our best wishes to His Majesty King Hamad and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain on their National Day. This year the United States and Bahrain further strengthened our historic partnership and friendship through our third Strategic Dialogue and the signing of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement. I look forward to deepening our security and economic ties as we work togethe Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bahrain , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Science, Technology, and Innovation Burkina Faso National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I congratulate the people of Burkina Faso on the 63rd anniversary of your independence. The United States recognizes the many sacrifices and lives lost due to terrorist violence and offers its heartfelt condolences. Despite the significant challenges Burkina Faso has faced this year in the fight against violent extremism, the resilience and determination of the Burkinabe peop Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Burkina Faso , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy Finland National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to Finland on the celebration of its 106th anniversary of independence. Finland stands as a cherished and enduring partner, buttressed by the shared pillars of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Our partnership is a testament to the strength derived from these fundamental principles. This year holds particular significance for our relationship, as Finland acceded to the Washing Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Finland , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Thailand National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the Kingdom of Thailand as it celebrates Thai National Day on December 5. This year, the United States and Thailand celebrated 190 years of diplomatic relations—a testament to the strength of our enduring alliance. We welcomed Thailand’s new government, and we will continue to deepen our bilateral relationship. In the comin Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Thailand , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health United Arab Emirates National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, and to all our partners and friends in the UAE our congratulations on the UAE’s National Day. The United States and the UAE are bound together by more than five decades of friendship and partnership. Our many successes stand as a testament to our leaders’ shared commitment to advance regional peace and stabi Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United Arab Emirates , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Laos National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Laos on the 48th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The United States looks forward to continuing its work with the Lao government to grow our relationship and support the Lao upcoming ASEAN chair year. We will continue to build strong ties through increased people-to-people exchanges, support for Laos’s development objectives, and furth Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Laos , United States Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Brussels, Belgium NATO Headquarters SECRETARY BLINKEN: Hello, everyone. It is always great to be with my friend, my colleague, Dmytro Kuleba, but especially good here at – to be here at NATO and sitting around the table together and making sure and making clear – as we heard from every single country around the NATO table – our enduring commitment to Ukraine, to making sure that Ukraine has what it needs to defend itself against Russian Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy The Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I send my best wishes to the government and people of Mauritania as you celebrate 63 years of independence. Mauritania has shown an active commitment to civilian-led, democratic government and is a strong regional security partner. The United States appreciates the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Mauritania , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Bosnia and Herzegovina Statehood Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina on marking Statehood Day. The United States has been your enduring partner for over three decades and remains firmly committed to protecting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character. We will continue to work with institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance the reforms necessary to help secure your country’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Latvia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of Latvia as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of your independence. The strong, vital partnership between Latvia and the United States is rooted in a shared commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and mutual respect. Together we are committed to maintaining steadfast support for Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its unprovoked war. As NATO Allies, La Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Latvia , Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Oman National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warmest congratulations to the people of Oman on the occasion of your National Day. Our warm and enduring friendship dates back to the earliest days of our republic. We value our history of cooperation, especially the work we undertake together to promote security, stability, peace, and prosperity in the region. We celebrate the success of the inaugural U.S.-Oman Strategic Dialogue earlier this year Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Oman , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State San Francisco, California Moscone Center SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon, everyone. Prime Minister, (inaudible) hospitality (inaudible) economic and security partner. We’re also working very closely together here (inaudible) good week. And day in day out, we are working to Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Guinea , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Angolan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Angola a heartfelt congratulations on the 48th anniversary of your independence. I am appreciative of the ways that the United States and Angola have expanded our partnership, especially in the past year. From the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, to increased security cooperation, to the ways that U.S. companies are finding success in Angola, the U.S.-Angola relationship is strong and growing. Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Angola , United States Cambodia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Cambodia as you honor the 70th year of your nation’s independence. The United States will continue to work with Cambodia’s government to advance a shared vision of a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region. We will continue to build strong ties between our peoples, including through educational exchanges, support for the preservation of cultural heritage, Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cambodia , United States Antigua and Barbuda National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate Antigua and Barbuda on the 42nd anniversary of your Independence Day. Our countries share a commitment to democracy and a desire to promote a safe, resilient, and prosperous Caribbean region. Through the U.S.-Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, we have made great strides in combating drugs and weapons trafficking, and under the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken at the Swearing-in Ceremony for the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement HomeThe Secretary of State Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malawi , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health, Science, Technology, and Innovation Czech Republic National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I offer my sincere congratulations to the people and government of the Czech Republic as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of the founding of a free and democratic Czechoslovakia. Our nations share a deep friendship and an abiding commitment to democracy and the rule of law. We stand united in our support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s war of aggression. The Czech Republic has demonstrated that commitmen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Czech Republic , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Kazakhstan’s Republic Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warmest wishes to the people of Kazakhstan as they celebrate Republic Day on October 25. As the people of Kazakhstan on this day commemorate their declaration of sovereignty, we reaffirm the United States’ commitment to Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We commend Kazakhstan’s steadfast leadership since independence in advancing global dialogue and ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Kazakhstan , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Zambia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer my warm congratulations to the people of Zambia on your 59th Independence Day celebration. The United States remains committed to strengthening our partnership with Zambia, built on our shared commitment to democracy, inclusive economic growth, security cooperation, and health security. Today provides a joyous oc Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zambia Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Equatorial Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to Equatorial Guinea in honor of the 55th anniversary of your independence on October 12. The United States values our relationship with Equatorial Guinea, and we remain committed in our partnership to combat trafficking in persons, develop the initiative on Atlantic Cooperation, and promote maritime security and economic growth. In the coming year, we look forward Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Spain National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warmest congratulations to the people of Spain as you celebrate your National Day. Spain is a close ally and a friend with whom we tackle a vast number of urgent global issues. Our friendship is based on shared values and interests such as the fight against climate change, the defence of democracy, and a commitment to an international rules-based order. The United States is grateful for Spain’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Russia , Spain , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Fiji National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to congratulate the people of Fiji as you celebrate 53 years of independence on October 10. Since 1970, Fiji and the United States have worked together towards a free, open, and resilient Pacific. Together, we are responding to the climate crisis; countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; addressing regional security concerns; and fostering economic development. The United States appreci Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Fiji , United States Topics: Climate and Environment Ugandan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Uganda on the 61st anniversary of Uganda’s independence. Over the last 61 years, the American and Ugandan people have partnered to advance health, regional security, economic investment, agriculture, and education. The United States continues to support Ugandans in the pursuit of democracy, respect for human rights, peace, and prosperity for all. Iraq National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States of America, I extend to Prime Minister Sudani and the Iraqi people our sincere congratulations as you celebrate your independence. The 360-degree strategic partnership that exists between our two countries continues to advance our shared values as we work together to address global challenges like tackling climate change, promoting economic development, advancing human rights, protecting th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Iraq , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Day of German Unity Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of Germany as they celebrate 33 years of reunification on this German Unity Day. The American and German people share an inherent commitment to defend and promote democratic institutions, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. Over the years, our friendship has grown into a multi-faceted partnership. Today, the United States views Germany as a key G7 partner, vital NATO Ally Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Germany , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Guinea on the 65th anniversary of your independence. The United States continues to stand with the people of Guinea in their aspirations for democracy. We support the Guinean people in their pursuit of the return of a democratically-elected, civilian-led government, and we reaffirm our commitment to helping achieve that goal throughout this period of transition. On this occas Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Cyprus National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of Cyprus as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your nation’s independence. The Republic of Cyprus and the United States are partners in pursuit of a more peaceful and prosperous world and share a commitment to democracy, freedom, and human dignity. The bonds between our nations have never been stronger, and we look forward to further deepening the full ra Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cyprus , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Nigeria National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Nigeria on the 63rd anniversary of your independence. The United States and Nigeria have built a strong partnership based on our shared values and common pursuit of a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure world. The United States is committed to strengthening our partnership and continuing to work together to promote inclusive economic growth, safeguard human rights, and combat inse Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Nigeria , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Celebration of Chuseok Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to all Korean people as they celebrate the joyous occasion of Chuseok. This special holiday, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, brings families, friends, and communities together. We are reminded of the enduring spirit of friendship and cooperation that strengthens the bond between our two nations. During this Chuseok holiday, may the spirit of camaraderie and shared val Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Turkmenistan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Turkmenistan as they celebrate Turkmenistan’s National Day on September 27. The United States maintains an enduring commitment to Turkmenistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rooted in your country’s principle of positive neutrality. As we reflect on our bilateral achievements during the past year, we look to our 32nd year of diplomatic rela Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Turkmenistan , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken And South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone. It’s always a great pleasure to be with my colleague and my friend Foreign Minister Pandor. We’ve had many opportunities over the last couple of years to work closely together, quite literally around the world. But it’s particularly gratifying to have the foreign minister here at the State Department in Washington. South Africa is a vital an Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: South Africa , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Treaties and International Agreements Secretary Antony J. Blinken At a Joint Statement Signing Ceremony with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Washington, DC Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good evening, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be here with Prime Minister Brown, and a particular pleasure because of the reason we’re here. When we had the initial summit with our Pacific Island partners back in 2022, President Biden announced his intent to recognize the Cook Islands. And today, with the exchange of letters signed by t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cook Islands , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Malta National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malta as you celebrate 59 years of independence. The United States values its longstanding friendship with Malta, which started at the founding of our nation more than two centuries ago. We are grateful for Malta’s efforts in support of transatlantic and European values, including strong support for Ukraine and its sovereignty in the face of Russia’s aggression. We Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malta , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Armenia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send best wishes to the people of Armenia on your Independence Day. Armenia put itself on a path towards freedom and self-determination when it declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, we have seen your commitment to democratic values, to developing and strengthening human rights, rule of law, economy, and justice for all Armenians. These values echo our own and we are proud to partner with A Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Armenia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tajikistan Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I share my best wishes to the people of Tajikistan as they mark 32 years of independence on September 9. The United States reaffirms our commitment to supporting Tajikistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We are proud to continue to strengthen our partnership through economic linkages, expanding people-to-people ties, supporting civil society, and bolstering cooperation Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tajikistan , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy North Macedonia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of North Macedonia as you celebrate 32 years of independence. The United States supports North Macedonia in making reforms to integrate into the European Union and forging ever stronger relations with neighboring European countries. North Macedonia has made great strides to ensure the prosperity of all its citizens while facing global challenges, and we stand with you in your ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Brazil National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Brazil on the 201st anniversary of its independence this September 7th. Brazil and the United States proudly stand together as vibrant and diverse democracies. We strongly value our joint commitment to address regional and global challenges, promote social and economic inclusion, and combat climate change to create a just, equitable, and sustainable environment where all our citizen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Brazil , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Eswatini National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate all Eswatini on 55 years of independence. As you mark this momentous occasion, let us also celebrate the strong friendship between our two nations. We honor our progress on health, climate change adaptation, and addressing a period of unrest. This collaboration has only strengthened the relationship between the United States and Eswatini as we hope for democratic elections followed by an inclusive natio Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Trinidad and Tobago National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Trinidad and Tobago as you celebrate 61 years of independence. As we consider the challenges and opportunities this year will bring, the United States looks forward to working with Trinidad and Tobago as steadfast allies and partners, united by our common values of resiliency, diversity, and democracy. We also look forward to broadening our cooperation under the Caribbean Basin Secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Kyrgyz Republic Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I warmly wish the people of the Kyrgyz Republic a joyous Kyrgyz Independence Day on August 31. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Kyrgyz Republic’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. We look to the future with hope as we continue to strengthen our economic, security, and people-to-people ties, increase women’s economic security, and expand our clean energy cooperat Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Energy Malaysia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malaysia on the occasion of your National Day on August 31. The United States appreciates the past 66 years of Malaysia’s friendship and cooperation. Together, our shared values and deep economic, security, and people-to-people ties have strengthened our bilateral relationship and set the foundation for a prosperous and stable future. We sincerely look forward to m Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malaysia , United States Moldova National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend a warm congratulations to Moldova and its people on 32 years of independence from the Soviet Union. The United States values Moldova’s shared commitment to strengthen democratic institutions and judicial reforms, foster economic growth, enhance its security, and promote respect for human rights. We look forward to continuing this partnership, including through the U.S.-Moldova Strategic Dialogue, and s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Moldova , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Hungary’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Hungary a happy Saint Stephen’s Day as you celebrate over a thousand years of history as a nation. The American and Hungarian people are united in our fundamental commitment to democratic values and rule of law, collective security, and prosperity. It is on this basis that we look forward to increasing our cooperation on shared challenges at an important moment. The relationship bet Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Hungary , United States Indonesia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to the people of Indonesia on the occasion of your Independence Day. The United States and Indonesia enjoy a strong strategic partnership enhanced by our shared commitment to democracy and the close ties between our peoples. I commend Indonesia’s work in facilitating growth and building a resilient future through your Chairmanship of ASEAN this year. I was pleased to participate in Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Indonesia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Liechtenstein’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my most heartfelt congratulations as Liechtenstein marks its National Day. Our partnership is based on our shared commitment to freedom, advancing human rights, and economic prosperity. We commend your efforts in the pursuit of a safer economic arena including by combating illegal banking activities, as well as your support for Ukrainian refugees. Happy National Day, and I look forward to our cont Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liechtenstein , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Indian Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, we send our warmest wishes to the people of India as they commemorate 76 years of independence this August 15. On this momentous day, we reflect on the depth and breadth of our strategic partnership, and we celebrate the proud history of the Indian people, who are the key to the bright future we are building together. This last year has shown that the U.S.-India relationship is deeper and more expansive than ev Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: India , United States Republic of Korea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my warm congratulations to the Republic of Korea as you celebrate your National Day. Today, I want to reaffirm the strength of our Alliance in its 70th year and celebrate our strategic partnership, acknowledging the shared values that form the foundation of our strong bond. The United States remains committed to achieving a truly global partnership between our countries, including by Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Chad National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of the Republic of Chad as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your independence. Our two countries share more than six decades of collaboration on shared priorities. We support the people of Chad in their pursuit of an inclusive democratic transition, leading to free and fair elections that reflect the will of the Chadian people. As Chad pursues this transition, we re Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Chad , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Singapore National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I wish to congratulate the people of Singapore on the occasion of your National Day. The United States and Singapore enjoy a long friendship built upon our shared interests and commitment for a prosperous, secure, and collaborative future. Our enduring strategic partnership is strengthened by our exceptional defense and security ties, deep trade relations, and thriving connections betwee Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Singapore , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Benin National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Benin on marking 63 years of independence. On this national day, we reaffirm the historical bonds between the United States and Benin. Our longstanding partnership is based on our mutual interest in democracy, maintaining regional security, and promoting economic growth. The United States will continue to stand with Benin to promote our shared values. I extend t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Benin , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Vanuatu National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I extend my greetings and warm congratulations to you and the ni-Vanuatu in celebration of your National Day on July 30. For many decades, our shared stories in the Pacific have been connected through past challenges and future hopes. Since the reopening last year of borders which the pandemic had closed, we have worked diligently to reconnect our two countries, and I am excited for Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Morocco Throne Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and citizens of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes and congratulations to his Majesty King Mohammed VI and the people of Morocco as you celebrate Throne Day and the 24th Anniversary of his Majesty’s accession. Our deep and abiding relationship continues to be a pillar of peace and stability for our two countries and the region. We commend King Mohammed VI for his role in furthering regional stability, secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Morocco , United States Republic of Peru National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the Peruvian people on the anniversary of Peru’s independence. The ties between our nations began in 1826, and our relationship today remains strong as we work together to create opportunities for inclusive economic growth and uphold our commitments to democracy and human rights. We look forward to our continued collaboration, including through the Americas Partnership for Economic Pr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Peru , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Liberia National Day Message Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Liberia as you mark your 176th year of independence. The United States and Liberia share a strong bond stemming from our shared history and cultural ties. We remain committed to work with Liberia and re-emphasize our shared values in democracy, human rights, economic development and the environment. Please accept my best wishes to the people of Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liberia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku at a Joint Press Availability Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State PRIME MINISTER HU’AKAVAMEILIKU: (In Tongan.) It is a great honor to warmly welcome to the Kingdom of Tonga the Secretary of State of the United States of America, Mr. Antony Blinken. The visit today by Secretary Blinken is historic. It is the first visit by a sitting U.S. secretary of state to Tonga. It is the highest-level visit we have received from the United States Government in our recent history. There is a clear indication t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Afghanistan, China, Guinea , Indonesia , Israel , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , Solomon Islands , Tonga , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Maldives Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to extend my congratulations and best wishes to Maldives on your Independence Day this July 26th. As you celebrate this important day, Maldives has many reasons to be proud. Your country is a strong supporter of democratic values and an important voice in maintaining the international rules-based order. The relationship between the United States and Maldives is based on shared values of democracy, Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Maldives , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Belgium’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of the Kingdom of Belgium as you celebrate your National Day. Our deep friendship with Belgium is based on our common values and strong commitment to democracy. We have stood shoulder to shoulder in shared sacrifice during two world wars. As founding members of NATO, we established a cornerstone of peace, prosperity, and stability, which the Transatlantic Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Belgium , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy Zimbabwe National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the Zimbabwean people as you celebrate the 43rd anniversary of your independence. The United States remains committed to standing with the people of Zimbabwe, as we have since your independence in 1980, to work together to promote democratic institutions, equitable economic growth, public health, and food security. Zimbabwe has the chance to set itself on a path to promot Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zimbabwe Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Khmer New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I wish all Cambodians celebrating Khmer New Year good health, peace, and good fortune. Khmer New Year is time of reflection. As we review our accomplishments over the past year and the important work that remains, we look forward to continuing to engage with our Cambodian friends and partners to further strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and the Kingdom of Ca Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cambodia , United States Thailand New Year – Songkran Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I wish the people of the Kingdom of Thailand a peaceful and prosperous new year ahead on the occasion of Songkran on April 13. As the United States and Thailand commemorate 190 years of diplomatic ties, I am proud that our alliance and partnership are stronger than ever. Together, we have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic and are seizing every opportunity to deepen and expand our t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Thailand , United States Topics: Coronavirus (COVID-19), Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health Lao New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warm regards to the Lao people as you celebrate Lao New Year this week. The United States greatly values our growing partnership with Laos and our shared commitment to build a stronger future for both our countries. Our bonds will continue to grow as we advance our shared priorities together, including strengthened people-to-people ties, expanded trade and investment, and a commitment to sovereignty Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Laos , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Burma New Year 2023 – Thingyan Festival Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I convey my best wishes to and solidarity with the people of Burma as they mark Burma’s New Year, Thingyan. Thingyan is a time of renewal and an opportunity to reflect on the values of peace and prosperity, to which the people of Burma aspire in their own lives and for their country. In the face of the military regime’s horrific campaign of widespread violence, the United States rem Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Burma , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken at Finland’s NATO Instruments of Accession Ceremony Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Brussels, Belgium NATO Headquarters SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, Secretary General, Mr. Minister, I’m delighted to report that just a few moments ago, Türkiye deposited with me, on behalf of the United States, Türkiye’s ratification of the instrument of acceding to the protocol for Finland’s accession to NATO. And with the receipt and submission of that protocol, I can say that the protocol is now in force. SECRETARY Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Finland , United States Topics: Treaties and International Agreements Bangladesh Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to convey my warmest congratulations to the people of Bangladesh on your Independence Day. As you celebrate your 53rd Independence Day, Bangladesh has many reasons to be proud. With a rapidly growing economy, an increasingly well-educated workforce, and a dynamic youth demographic, Bangladesh is quickly becoming a regional leader. By generously welcoming Rohingya fleeing genocide, you have demonstr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bangladesh , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Greece Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Greece and Greeks around the world as you celebrate the 202nd anniversary of the founding of the Hellenic Republic. As I reflect on the previous year, I am proud to say that the partnership between the United States and Greece and the ties between our peoples have never been stronger. The United States views Greece as an indispensable partner and NATO Al Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Greece , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tunisia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of Tunisia on the 67th anniversary of their nation’s independence. As Tunisians mark more than 12 years since their revolution, the United States remains deeply committed to the fundamental freedoms, democratic institutions, and inclusive political dialogue that both Americans and Tunisians have fought hard to achieve. We also stand by Tunisians as th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tunisia , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Occasion of St. Patrick’s Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Ireland, and all those celebrating around the world, a happy and healthy St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the Emerald Isle’s rich heritage and culture and reflect on the partnership between our countries and friendship between our people. The United States and Ireland cooperate closely in every sphere, bound by our shared love of freedom, democracy, and h Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Ireland , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tunisian President Kais Saied Before Their Meeting Topics Anti-Corruption and Transparency Arms Control and Nonproliferation Climate and Environment Combating Drugs and Crime Coronavirus (COVID-19) Countering Terrorism Cyber Issues Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Energy Global Health Global Women's Issues Human Rights and Democracy Human Trafficking Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Science, Technology, and Innovation SG Security The Ocean and Polar Affairs Treaties and International Agreements Loading...
On behalf of the United States of America, I send my best wishes to the people of Aotearoa New Zealand as you commemorate the anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on February 6.
The United States recognizes the significance of this day and the ongoing dialogue it inspires. We reaffirm our shared commitment to diversity and building a more equitable future for all.<
Regions: New Zealand , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements
On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to extend my congratulations to the Republic of Nauru as it celebrates the 56th anniversary of its independence.
As proud members of a common Pacific family, the United States and Nauru share a history of democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. We will continue to work together to address the shared challenges facing our two countries, including confronting the climate crisis, advancing econo
Regions: Nauru , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of India on India’s Republic Day. The Constitution of India continues to provide an enduring framework for the world’s largest democracy and a foundation for its global leadership.
As President Biden has said, our relationship with India is one of the most consequential in the world. The past year has been marked by important milestones in our Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, including our cooperation throughout In
Regions: India , United States
Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
Africa Cup of Nations at Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara D'Ebimpé
Via Translation
QUESTION: Hello everyone, and welcome to this exceptional edition. As you may have understood, we are outside the premises of RTI, with an exceptional guest. Indeed, Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, is currently in Côte d’Ivoire as part of his African tour. He has granted us an interview, an exclusive by
Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , Nigeria , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health
Cabo Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva
Praia, Cabo Verde
PRIME MINISTER SILVA: (Via interpreter) Good morning, Your Excellency Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Welcome to Cabo Verde. A special visit of yours to Cabo Verde, to the city of Praia, strengthens our excellent relations between Cabo Verde and United States of America. This visit to four African count
Regions: Cabo Verde , Israel , Nigeria , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Countering Terrorism, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs
Tel Aviv, Israel
David Kempinski Hotel
PRESIDENT HERZOG: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Good morning, Secretary Blinken. As always, it’s such a pleasure to have you in Israel. This is your fourth trip already in this Gaza war, and we are very grateful to you for your support and for your steadfast commitment to Israel’s safety and to making sure that Israel wins this war, because it’s a war that affects international values and th
Regions: Israel , South Africa , United States
Topics: Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance
Doha, Qatar
Diwan Annex
PRIME MINISTER AL THANI: (Via interpreter) In the name of Allah, peace and blessings be upon you. I would like to welcome His Excellency Mr. Antony Blinken, U.S. Secretary of State, in Doha. In our meeting today, we have discussed the most significant development in the region – on top of them, the war that continued for three month in Gaza and the Palestinian occupied territory, with all its political, hu
Regions: France , Iran , Iraq , Israel , Lebanon , Qatar , Syria , United States , West Bank
Topics: Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, The Ocean and Polar Affairs
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our best wishes to the State of Qatar as you celebrate your National Day.
I am thankful for Qatar’s continuing friendship and partnership, which continues to broaden and deepen to the benefit of both countries. I want to express my gratitude for Qatar’s key role as a mediator in efforts to secure the release of unjustly detained Americans in Iran in September, and hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. These
Regions: Iran , Qatar , United States
Home Bhutan National Day Home Bahrain National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our best wishes to His Majesty King Hamad and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain on their National Day. This year the United States and Bahrain further strengthened our historic partnership and friendship through our third Strategic Dialogue and the signing of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement. I look forward to deepening our security and economic ties as we work togethe Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bahrain , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Science, Technology, and Innovation Burkina Faso National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I congratulate the people of Burkina Faso on the 63rd anniversary of your independence. The United States recognizes the many sacrifices and lives lost due to terrorist violence and offers its heartfelt condolences. Despite the significant challenges Burkina Faso has faced this year in the fight against violent extremism, the resilience and determination of the Burkinabe peop Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Burkina Faso , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy Finland National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to Finland on the celebration of its 106th anniversary of independence. Finland stands as a cherished and enduring partner, buttressed by the shared pillars of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Our partnership is a testament to the strength derived from these fundamental principles. This year holds particular significance for our relationship, as Finland acceded to the Washing Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Finland , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Thailand National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the Kingdom of Thailand as it celebrates Thai National Day on December 5. This year, the United States and Thailand celebrated 190 years of diplomatic relations—a testament to the strength of our enduring alliance. We welcomed Thailand’s new government, and we will continue to deepen our bilateral relationship. In the comin Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Thailand , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health United Arab Emirates National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, and to all our partners and friends in the UAE our congratulations on the UAE’s National Day. The United States and the UAE are bound together by more than five decades of friendship and partnership. Our many successes stand as a testament to our leaders’ shared commitment to advance regional peace and stabi Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United Arab Emirates , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Laos National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Laos on the 48th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The United States looks forward to continuing its work with the Lao government to grow our relationship and support the Lao upcoming ASEAN chair year. We will continue to build strong ties through increased people-to-people exchanges, support for Laos’s development objectives, and furth Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Laos , United States Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Brussels, Belgium NATO Headquarters SECRETARY BLINKEN: Hello, everyone. It is always great to be with my friend, my colleague, Dmytro Kuleba, but especially good here at – to be here at NATO and sitting around the table together and making sure and making clear – as we heard from every single country around the NATO table – our enduring commitment to Ukraine, to making sure that Ukraine has what it needs to defend itself against Russian Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy The Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I send my best wishes to the government and people of Mauritania as you celebrate 63 years of independence. Mauritania has shown an active commitment to civilian-led, democratic government and is a strong regional security partner. The United States appreciates the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Mauritania , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Bosnia and Herzegovina Statehood Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina on marking Statehood Day. The United States has been your enduring partner for over three decades and remains firmly committed to protecting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character. We will continue to work with institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance the reforms necessary to help secure your country’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Latvia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of Latvia as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of your independence. The strong, vital partnership between Latvia and the United States is rooted in a shared commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and mutual respect. Together we are committed to maintaining steadfast support for Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its unprovoked war. As NATO Allies, La Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Latvia , Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Oman National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warmest congratulations to the people of Oman on the occasion of your National Day. Our warm and enduring friendship dates back to the earliest days of our republic. We value our history of cooperation, especially the work we undertake together to promote security, stability, peace, and prosperity in the region. We celebrate the success of the inaugural U.S.-Oman Strategic Dialogue earlier this year Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Oman , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State San Francisco, California Moscone Center SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon, everyone. Prime Minister, (inaudible) hospitality (inaudible) economic and security partner. We’re also working very closely together here (inaudible) good week. And day in day out, we are working to Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Guinea , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Angolan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Angola a heartfelt congratulations on the 48th anniversary of your independence. I am appreciative of the ways that the United States and Angola have expanded our partnership, especially in the past year. From the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, to increased security cooperation, to the ways that U.S. companies are finding success in Angola, the U.S.-Angola relationship is strong and growing. Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Angola , United States Cambodia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Cambodia as you honor the 70th year of your nation’s independence. The United States will continue to work with Cambodia’s government to advance a shared vision of a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region. We will continue to build strong ties between our peoples, including through educational exchanges, support for the preservation of cultural heritage, Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cambodia , United States Antigua and Barbuda National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate Antigua and Barbuda on the 42nd anniversary of your Independence Day. Our countries share a commitment to democracy and a desire to promote a safe, resilient, and prosperous Caribbean region. Through the U.S.-Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, we have made great strides in combating drugs and weapons trafficking, and under the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken at the Swearing-in Ceremony for the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement HomeThe Secretary of State Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malawi , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health, Science, Technology, and Innovation Czech Republic National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I offer my sincere congratulations to the people and government of the Czech Republic as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of the founding of a free and democratic Czechoslovakia. Our nations share a deep friendship and an abiding commitment to democracy and the rule of law. We stand united in our support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s war of aggression. The Czech Republic has demonstrated that commitmen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Czech Republic , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Kazakhstan’s Republic Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warmest wishes to the people of Kazakhstan as they celebrate Republic Day on October 25. As the people of Kazakhstan on this day commemorate their declaration of sovereignty, we reaffirm the United States’ commitment to Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We commend Kazakhstan’s steadfast leadership since independence in advancing global dialogue and ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Kazakhstan , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Zambia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer my warm congratulations to the people of Zambia on your 59th Independence Day celebration. The United States remains committed to strengthening our partnership with Zambia, built on our shared commitment to democracy, inclusive economic growth, security cooperation, and health security. Today provides a joyous oc Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zambia Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Equatorial Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to Equatorial Guinea in honor of the 55th anniversary of your independence on October 12. The United States values our relationship with Equatorial Guinea, and we remain committed in our partnership to combat trafficking in persons, develop the initiative on Atlantic Cooperation, and promote maritime security and economic growth. In the coming year, we look forward Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Spain National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warmest congratulations to the people of Spain as you celebrate your National Day. Spain is a close ally and a friend with whom we tackle a vast number of urgent global issues. Our friendship is based on shared values and interests such as the fight against climate change, the defence of democracy, and a commitment to an international rules-based order. The United States is grateful for Spain’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Russia , Spain , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Fiji National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to congratulate the people of Fiji as you celebrate 53 years of independence on October 10. Since 1970, Fiji and the United States have worked together towards a free, open, and resilient Pacific. Together, we are responding to the climate crisis; countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; addressing regional security concerns; and fostering economic development. The United States appreci Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Fiji , United States Topics: Climate and Environment Ugandan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Uganda on the 61st anniversary of Uganda’s independence. Over the last 61 years, the American and Ugandan people have partnered to advance health, regional security, economic investment, agriculture, and education. The United States continues to support Ugandans in the pursuit of democracy, respect for human rights, peace, and prosperity for all. Iraq National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States of America, I extend to Prime Minister Sudani and the Iraqi people our sincere congratulations as you celebrate your independence. The 360-degree strategic partnership that exists between our two countries continues to advance our shared values as we work together to address global challenges like tackling climate change, promoting economic development, advancing human rights, protecting th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Iraq , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Day of German Unity Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of Germany as they celebrate 33 years of reunification on this German Unity Day. The American and German people share an inherent commitment to defend and promote democratic institutions, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. Over the years, our friendship has grown into a multi-faceted partnership. Today, the United States views Germany as a key G7 partner, vital NATO Ally Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Germany , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Guinea on the 65th anniversary of your independence. The United States continues to stand with the people of Guinea in their aspirations for democracy. We support the Guinean people in their pursuit of the return of a democratically-elected, civilian-led government, and we reaffirm our commitment to helping achieve that goal throughout this period of transition. On this occas Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Cyprus National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of Cyprus as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your nation’s independence. The Republic of Cyprus and the United States are partners in pursuit of a more peaceful and prosperous world and share a commitment to democracy, freedom, and human dignity. The bonds between our nations have never been stronger, and we look forward to further deepening the full ra Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cyprus , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Nigeria National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Nigeria on the 63rd anniversary of your independence. The United States and Nigeria have built a strong partnership based on our shared values and common pursuit of a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure world. The United States is committed to strengthening our partnership and continuing to work together to promote inclusive economic growth, safeguard human rights, and combat inse Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Nigeria , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Celebration of Chuseok Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to all Korean people as they celebrate the joyous occasion of Chuseok. This special holiday, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, brings families, friends, and communities together. We are reminded of the enduring spirit of friendship and cooperation that strengthens the bond between our two nations. During this Chuseok holiday, may the spirit of camaraderie and shared val Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Turkmenistan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Turkmenistan as they celebrate Turkmenistan’s National Day on September 27. The United States maintains an enduring commitment to Turkmenistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rooted in your country’s principle of positive neutrality. As we reflect on our bilateral achievements during the past year, we look to our 32nd year of diplomatic rela Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Turkmenistan , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken And South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone. It’s always a great pleasure to be with my colleague and my friend Foreign Minister Pandor. We’ve had many opportunities over the last couple of years to work closely together, quite literally around the world. But it’s particularly gratifying to have the foreign minister here at the State Department in Washington. South Africa is a vital an Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: South Africa , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Treaties and International Agreements Secretary Antony J. Blinken At a Joint Statement Signing Ceremony with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Washington, DC Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good evening, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be here with Prime Minister Brown, and a particular pleasure because of the reason we’re here. When we had the initial summit with our Pacific Island partners back in 2022, President Biden announced his intent to recognize the Cook Islands. And today, with the exchange of letters signed by t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cook Islands , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Malta National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malta as you celebrate 59 years of independence. The United States values its longstanding friendship with Malta, which started at the founding of our nation more than two centuries ago. We are grateful for Malta’s efforts in support of transatlantic and European values, including strong support for Ukraine and its sovereignty in the face of Russia’s aggression. We Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malta , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Armenia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send best wishes to the people of Armenia on your Independence Day. Armenia put itself on a path towards freedom and self-determination when it declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, we have seen your commitment to democratic values, to developing and strengthening human rights, rule of law, economy, and justice for all Armenians. These values echo our own and we are proud to partner with A Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Armenia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tajikistan Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I share my best wishes to the people of Tajikistan as they mark 32 years of independence on September 9. The United States reaffirms our commitment to supporting Tajikistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We are proud to continue to strengthen our partnership through economic linkages, expanding people-to-people ties, supporting civil society, and bolstering cooperation Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tajikistan , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy North Macedonia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of North Macedonia as you celebrate 32 years of independence. The United States supports North Macedonia in making reforms to integrate into the European Union and forging ever stronger relations with neighboring European countries. North Macedonia has made great strides to ensure the prosperity of all its citizens while facing global challenges, and we stand with you in your ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Brazil National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Brazil on the 201st anniversary of its independence this September 7th. Brazil and the United States proudly stand together as vibrant and diverse democracies. We strongly value our joint commitment to address regional and global challenges, promote social and economic inclusion, and combat climate change to create a just, equitable, and sustainable environment where all our citizen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Brazil , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Eswatini National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate all Eswatini on 55 years of independence. As you mark this momentous occasion, let us also celebrate the strong friendship between our two nations. We honor our progress on health, climate change adaptation, and addressing a period of unrest. This collaboration has only strengthened the relationship between the United States and Eswatini as we hope for democratic elections followed by an inclusive natio Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Trinidad and Tobago National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Trinidad and Tobago as you celebrate 61 years of independence. As we consider the challenges and opportunities this year will bring, the United States looks forward to working with Trinidad and Tobago as steadfast allies and partners, united by our common values of resiliency, diversity, and democracy. We also look forward to broadening our cooperation under the Caribbean Basin Secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Kyrgyz Republic Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I warmly wish the people of the Kyrgyz Republic a joyous Kyrgyz Independence Day on August 31. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Kyrgyz Republic’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. We look to the future with hope as we continue to strengthen our economic, security, and people-to-people ties, increase women’s economic security, and expand our clean energy cooperat Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Energy Malaysia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malaysia on the occasion of your National Day on August 31. The United States appreciates the past 66 years of Malaysia’s friendship and cooperation. Together, our shared values and deep economic, security, and people-to-people ties have strengthened our bilateral relationship and set the foundation for a prosperous and stable future. We sincerely look forward to m Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malaysia , United States Moldova National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend a warm congratulations to Moldova and its people on 32 years of independence from the Soviet Union. The United States values Moldova’s shared commitment to strengthen democratic institutions and judicial reforms, foster economic growth, enhance its security, and promote respect for human rights. We look forward to continuing this partnership, including through the U.S.-Moldova Strategic Dialogue, and s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Moldova , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Hungary’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Hungary a happy Saint Stephen’s Day as you celebrate over a thousand years of history as a nation. The American and Hungarian people are united in our fundamental commitment to democratic values and rule of law, collective security, and prosperity. It is on this basis that we look forward to increasing our cooperation on shared challenges at an important moment. The relationship bet Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Hungary , United States Indonesia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to the people of Indonesia on the occasion of your Independence Day. The United States and Indonesia enjoy a strong strategic partnership enhanced by our shared commitment to democracy and the close ties between our peoples. I commend Indonesia’s work in facilitating growth and building a resilient future through your Chairmanship of ASEAN this year. I was pleased to participate in Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Indonesia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Liechtenstein’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my most heartfelt congratulations as Liechtenstein marks its National Day. Our partnership is based on our shared commitment to freedom, advancing human rights, and economic prosperity. We commend your efforts in the pursuit of a safer economic arena including by combating illegal banking activities, as well as your support for Ukrainian refugees. Happy National Day, and I look forward to our cont Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liechtenstein , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Indian Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, we send our warmest wishes to the people of India as they commemorate 76 years of independence this August 15. On this momentous day, we reflect on the depth and breadth of our strategic partnership, and we celebrate the proud history of the Indian people, who are the key to the bright future we are building together. This last year has shown that the U.S.-India relationship is deeper and more expansive than ev Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: India , United States Republic of Korea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my warm congratulations to the Republic of Korea as you celebrate your National Day. Today, I want to reaffirm the strength of our Alliance in its 70th year and celebrate our strategic partnership, acknowledging the shared values that form the foundation of our strong bond. The United States remains committed to achieving a truly global partnership between our countries, including by Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Chad National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of the Republic of Chad as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your independence. Our two countries share more than six decades of collaboration on shared priorities. We support the people of Chad in their pursuit of an inclusive democratic transition, leading to free and fair elections that reflect the will of the Chadian people. As Chad pursues this transition, we re Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Chad , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Singapore National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I wish to congratulate the people of Singapore on the occasion of your National Day. The United States and Singapore enjoy a long friendship built upon our shared interests and commitment for a prosperous, secure, and collaborative future. Our enduring strategic partnership is strengthened by our exceptional defense and security ties, deep trade relations, and thriving connections betwee Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Singapore , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Benin National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Benin on marking 63 years of independence. On this national day, we reaffirm the historical bonds between the United States and Benin. Our longstanding partnership is based on our mutual interest in democracy, maintaining regional security, and promoting economic growth. The United States will continue to stand with Benin to promote our shared values. I extend t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Benin , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Vanuatu National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I extend my greetings and warm congratulations to you and the ni-Vanuatu in celebration of your National Day on July 30. For many decades, our shared stories in the Pacific have been connected through past challenges and future hopes. Since the reopening last year of borders which the pandemic had closed, we have worked diligently to reconnect our two countries, and I am excited for Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Morocco Throne Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and citizens of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes and congratulations to his Majesty King Mohammed VI and the people of Morocco as you celebrate Throne Day and the 24th Anniversary of his Majesty’s accession. Our deep and abiding relationship continues to be a pillar of peace and stability for our two countries and the region. We commend King Mohammed VI for his role in furthering regional stability, secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Morocco , United States Republic of Peru National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the Peruvian people on the anniversary of Peru’s independence. The ties between our nations began in 1826, and our relationship today remains strong as we work together to create opportunities for inclusive economic growth and uphold our commitments to democracy and human rights. We look forward to our continued collaboration, including through the Americas Partnership for Economic Pr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Peru , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Liberia National Day Message Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Liberia as you mark your 176th year of independence. The United States and Liberia share a strong bond stemming from our shared history and cultural ties. We remain committed to work with Liberia and re-emphasize our shared values in democracy, human rights, economic development and the environment. Please accept my best wishes to the people of Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liberia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku at a Joint Press Availability Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State PRIME MINISTER HU’AKAVAMEILIKU: (In Tongan.) It is a great honor to warmly welcome to the Kingdom of Tonga the Secretary of State of the United States of America, Mr. Antony Blinken. The visit today by Secretary Blinken is historic. It is the first visit by a sitting U.S. secretary of state to Tonga. It is the highest-level visit we have received from the United States Government in our recent history. There is a clear indication t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Afghanistan, China, Guinea , Indonesia , Israel , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , Solomon Islands , Tonga , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Maldives Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to extend my congratulations and best wishes to Maldives on your Independence Day this July 26th. As you celebrate this important day, Maldives has many reasons to be proud. Your country is a strong supporter of democratic values and an important voice in maintaining the international rules-based order. The relationship between the United States and Maldives is based on shared values of democracy, Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Maldives , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Belgium’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of the Kingdom of Belgium as you celebrate your National Day. Our deep friendship with Belgium is based on our common values and strong commitment to democracy. We have stood shoulder to shoulder in shared sacrifice during two world wars. As founding members of NATO, we established a cornerstone of peace, prosperity, and stability, which the Transatlantic Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Belgium , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy Zimbabwe National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the Zimbabwean people as you celebrate the 43rd anniversary of your independence. The United States remains committed to standing with the people of Zimbabwe, as we have since your independence in 1980, to work together to promote democratic institutions, equitable economic growth, public health, and food security. Zimbabwe has the chance to set itself on a path to promot Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zimbabwe Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Khmer New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I wish all Cambodians celebrating Khmer New Year good health, peace, and good fortune. Khmer New Year is time of reflection. As we review our accomplishments over the past year and the important work that remains, we look forward to continuing to engage with our Cambodian friends and partners to further strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and the Kingdom of Ca Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cambodia , United States Thailand New Year – Songkran Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I wish the people of the Kingdom of Thailand a peaceful and prosperous new year ahead on the occasion of Songkran on April 13. As the United States and Thailand commemorate 190 years of diplomatic ties, I am proud that our alliance and partnership are stronger than ever. Together, we have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic and are seizing every opportunity to deepen and expand our t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Thailand , United States Topics: Coronavirus (COVID-19), Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health Lao New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warm regards to the Lao people as you celebrate Lao New Year this week. The United States greatly values our growing partnership with Laos and our shared commitment to build a stronger future for both our countries. Our bonds will continue to grow as we advance our shared priorities together, including strengthened people-to-people ties, expanded trade and investment, and a commitment to sovereignty Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Laos , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Burma New Year 2023 – Thingyan Festival Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I convey my best wishes to and solidarity with the people of Burma as they mark Burma’s New Year, Thingyan. Thingyan is a time of renewal and an opportunity to reflect on the values of peace and prosperity, to which the people of Burma aspire in their own lives and for their country. In the face of the military regime’s horrific campaign of widespread violence, the United States rem Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Burma , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken at Finland’s NATO Instruments of Accession Ceremony Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Brussels, Belgium NATO Headquarters SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, Secretary General, Mr. Minister, I’m delighted to report that just a few moments ago, Türkiye deposited with me, on behalf of the United States, Türkiye’s ratification of the instrument of acceding to the protocol for Finland’s accession to NATO. And with the receipt and submission of that protocol, I can say that the protocol is now in force. SECRETARY Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Finland , United States Topics: Treaties and International Agreements Bangladesh Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to convey my warmest congratulations to the people of Bangladesh on your Independence Day. As you celebrate your 53rd Independence Day, Bangladesh has many reasons to be proud. With a rapidly growing economy, an increasingly well-educated workforce, and a dynamic youth demographic, Bangladesh is quickly becoming a regional leader. By generously welcoming Rohingya fleeing genocide, you have demonstr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bangladesh , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Greece Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Greece and Greeks around the world as you celebrate the 202nd anniversary of the founding of the Hellenic Republic. As I reflect on the previous year, I am proud to say that the partnership between the United States and Greece and the ties between our peoples have never been stronger. The United States views Greece as an indispensable partner and NATO Al Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Greece , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tunisia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of Tunisia on the 67th anniversary of their nation’s independence. As Tunisians mark more than 12 years since their revolution, the United States remains deeply committed to the fundamental freedoms, democratic institutions, and inclusive political dialogue that both Americans and Tunisians have fought hard to achieve. We also stand by Tunisians as th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tunisia , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Occasion of St. Patrick’s Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Ireland, and all those celebrating around the world, a happy and healthy St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the Emerald Isle’s rich heritage and culture and reflect on the partnership between our countries and friendship between our people. The United States and Ireland cooperate closely in every sphere, bound by our shared love of freedom, democracy, and h Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Ireland , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tunisian President Kais Saied Before Their Meeting Topics Anti-Corruption and Transparency Arms Control and Nonproliferation Climate and Environment Combating Drugs and Crime Coronavirus (COVID-19) Countering Terrorism Cyber Issues Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Energy Global Health Global Women's Issues Human Rights and Democracy Human Trafficking Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Science, Technology, and Innovation SG Security The Ocean and Polar Affairs Treaties and International Agreements Loading...
Home Bahrain National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our best wishes to His Majesty King Hamad and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain on their National Day. This year the United States and Bahrain further strengthened our historic partnership and friendship through our third Strategic Dialogue and the signing of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement. I look forward to deepening our security and economic ties as we work togethe Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bahrain , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Science, Technology, and Innovation Burkina Faso National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I congratulate the people of Burkina Faso on the 63rd anniversary of your independence. The United States recognizes the many sacrifices and lives lost due to terrorist violence and offers its heartfelt condolences. Despite the significant challenges Burkina Faso has faced this year in the fight against violent extremism, the resilience and determination of the Burkinabe peop Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Burkina Faso , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy Finland National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to Finland on the celebration of its 106th anniversary of independence. Finland stands as a cherished and enduring partner, buttressed by the shared pillars of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Our partnership is a testament to the strength derived from these fundamental principles. This year holds particular significance for our relationship, as Finland acceded to the Washing Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Finland , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Thailand National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the Kingdom of Thailand as it celebrates Thai National Day on December 5. This year, the United States and Thailand celebrated 190 years of diplomatic relations—a testament to the strength of our enduring alliance. We welcomed Thailand’s new government, and we will continue to deepen our bilateral relationship. In the comin Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Thailand , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health United Arab Emirates National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, and to all our partners and friends in the UAE our congratulations on the UAE’s National Day. The United States and the UAE are bound together by more than five decades of friendship and partnership. Our many successes stand as a testament to our leaders’ shared commitment to advance regional peace and stabi Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United Arab Emirates , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Laos National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Laos on the 48th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. The United States looks forward to continuing its work with the Lao government to grow our relationship and support the Lao upcoming ASEAN chair year. We will continue to build strong ties through increased people-to-people exchanges, support for Laos’s development objectives, and furth Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Laos , United States Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Brussels, Belgium NATO Headquarters SECRETARY BLINKEN: Hello, everyone. It is always great to be with my friend, my colleague, Dmytro Kuleba, but especially good here at – to be here at NATO and sitting around the table together and making sure and making clear – as we heard from every single country around the NATO table – our enduring commitment to Ukraine, to making sure that Ukraine has what it needs to defend itself against Russian Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy The Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I send my best wishes to the government and people of Mauritania as you celebrate 63 years of independence. Mauritania has shown an active commitment to civilian-led, democratic government and is a strong regional security partner. The United States appreciates the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Mauritania , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Bosnia and Herzegovina Statehood Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina on marking Statehood Day. The United States has been your enduring partner for over three decades and remains firmly committed to protecting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character. We will continue to work with institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance the reforms necessary to help secure your country’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Latvia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of Latvia as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of your independence. The strong, vital partnership between Latvia and the United States is rooted in a shared commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and mutual respect. Together we are committed to maintaining steadfast support for Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its unprovoked war. As NATO Allies, La Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Latvia , Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Oman National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warmest congratulations to the people of Oman on the occasion of your National Day. Our warm and enduring friendship dates back to the earliest days of our republic. We value our history of cooperation, especially the work we undertake together to promote security, stability, peace, and prosperity in the region. We celebrate the success of the inaugural U.S.-Oman Strategic Dialogue earlier this year Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Oman , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State San Francisco, California Moscone Center SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon, everyone. Prime Minister, (inaudible) hospitality (inaudible) economic and security partner. We’re also working very closely together here (inaudible) good week. And day in day out, we are working to Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Guinea , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Angolan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Angola a heartfelt congratulations on the 48th anniversary of your independence. I am appreciative of the ways that the United States and Angola have expanded our partnership, especially in the past year. From the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, to increased security cooperation, to the ways that U.S. companies are finding success in Angola, the U.S.-Angola relationship is strong and growing. Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Angola , United States Cambodia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Cambodia as you honor the 70th year of your nation’s independence. The United States will continue to work with Cambodia’s government to advance a shared vision of a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region. We will continue to build strong ties between our peoples, including through educational exchanges, support for the preservation of cultural heritage, Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cambodia , United States Antigua and Barbuda National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate Antigua and Barbuda on the 42nd anniversary of your Independence Day. Our countries share a commitment to democracy and a desire to promote a safe, resilient, and prosperous Caribbean region. Through the U.S.-Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, we have made great strides in combating drugs and weapons trafficking, and under the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken at the Swearing-in Ceremony for the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement HomeThe Secretary of State Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malawi , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health, Science, Technology, and Innovation Czech Republic National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I offer my sincere congratulations to the people and government of the Czech Republic as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of the founding of a free and democratic Czechoslovakia. Our nations share a deep friendship and an abiding commitment to democracy and the rule of law. We stand united in our support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s war of aggression. The Czech Republic has demonstrated that commitmen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Czech Republic , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Kazakhstan’s Republic Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warmest wishes to the people of Kazakhstan as they celebrate Republic Day on October 25. As the people of Kazakhstan on this day commemorate their declaration of sovereignty, we reaffirm the United States’ commitment to Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We commend Kazakhstan’s steadfast leadership since independence in advancing global dialogue and ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Kazakhstan , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Zambia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer my warm congratulations to the people of Zambia on your 59th Independence Day celebration. The United States remains committed to strengthening our partnership with Zambia, built on our shared commitment to democracy, inclusive economic growth, security cooperation, and health security. Today provides a joyous oc Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zambia Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Equatorial Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to Equatorial Guinea in honor of the 55th anniversary of your independence on October 12. The United States values our relationship with Equatorial Guinea, and we remain committed in our partnership to combat trafficking in persons, develop the initiative on Atlantic Cooperation, and promote maritime security and economic growth. In the coming year, we look forward Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Spain National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warmest congratulations to the people of Spain as you celebrate your National Day. Spain is a close ally and a friend with whom we tackle a vast number of urgent global issues. Our friendship is based on shared values and interests such as the fight against climate change, the defence of democracy, and a commitment to an international rules-based order. The United States is grateful for Spain’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Russia , Spain , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Fiji National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to congratulate the people of Fiji as you celebrate 53 years of independence on October 10. Since 1970, Fiji and the United States have worked together towards a free, open, and resilient Pacific. Together, we are responding to the climate crisis; countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; addressing regional security concerns; and fostering economic development. The United States appreci Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Fiji , United States Topics: Climate and Environment Ugandan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Uganda on the 61st anniversary of Uganda’s independence. Over the last 61 years, the American and Ugandan people have partnered to advance health, regional security, economic investment, agriculture, and education. The United States continues to support Ugandans in the pursuit of democracy, respect for human rights, peace, and prosperity for all. Iraq National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States of America, I extend to Prime Minister Sudani and the Iraqi people our sincere congratulations as you celebrate your independence. The 360-degree strategic partnership that exists between our two countries continues to advance our shared values as we work together to address global challenges like tackling climate change, promoting economic development, advancing human rights, protecting th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Iraq , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Day of German Unity Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of Germany as they celebrate 33 years of reunification on this German Unity Day. The American and German people share an inherent commitment to defend and promote democratic institutions, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. Over the years, our friendship has grown into a multi-faceted partnership. Today, the United States views Germany as a key G7 partner, vital NATO Ally Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Germany , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Guinea on the 65th anniversary of your independence. The United States continues to stand with the people of Guinea in their aspirations for democracy. We support the Guinean people in their pursuit of the return of a democratically-elected, civilian-led government, and we reaffirm our commitment to helping achieve that goal throughout this period of transition. On this occas Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Cyprus National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of Cyprus as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your nation’s independence. The Republic of Cyprus and the United States are partners in pursuit of a more peaceful and prosperous world and share a commitment to democracy, freedom, and human dignity. The bonds between our nations have never been stronger, and we look forward to further deepening the full ra Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cyprus , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Nigeria National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Nigeria on the 63rd anniversary of your independence. The United States and Nigeria have built a strong partnership based on our shared values and common pursuit of a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure world. The United States is committed to strengthening our partnership and continuing to work together to promote inclusive economic growth, safeguard human rights, and combat inse Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Nigeria , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Celebration of Chuseok Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to all Korean people as they celebrate the joyous occasion of Chuseok. This special holiday, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, brings families, friends, and communities together. We are reminded of the enduring spirit of friendship and cooperation that strengthens the bond between our two nations. During this Chuseok holiday, may the spirit of camaraderie and shared val Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Turkmenistan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Turkmenistan as they celebrate Turkmenistan’s National Day on September 27. The United States maintains an enduring commitment to Turkmenistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rooted in your country’s principle of positive neutrality. As we reflect on our bilateral achievements during the past year, we look to our 32nd year of diplomatic rela Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Turkmenistan , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken And South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone. It’s always a great pleasure to be with my colleague and my friend Foreign Minister Pandor. We’ve had many opportunities over the last couple of years to work closely together, quite literally around the world. But it’s particularly gratifying to have the foreign minister here at the State Department in Washington. South Africa is a vital an Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: South Africa , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Treaties and International Agreements Secretary Antony J. Blinken At a Joint Statement Signing Ceremony with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Washington, DC Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good evening, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be here with Prime Minister Brown, and a particular pleasure because of the reason we’re here. When we had the initial summit with our Pacific Island partners back in 2022, President Biden announced his intent to recognize the Cook Islands. And today, with the exchange of letters signed by t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cook Islands , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Malta National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malta as you celebrate 59 years of independence. The United States values its longstanding friendship with Malta, which started at the founding of our nation more than two centuries ago. We are grateful for Malta’s efforts in support of transatlantic and European values, including strong support for Ukraine and its sovereignty in the face of Russia’s aggression. We Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malta , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Armenia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send best wishes to the people of Armenia on your Independence Day. Armenia put itself on a path towards freedom and self-determination when it declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, we have seen your commitment to democratic values, to developing and strengthening human rights, rule of law, economy, and justice for all Armenians. These values echo our own and we are proud to partner with A Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Armenia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tajikistan Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I share my best wishes to the people of Tajikistan as they mark 32 years of independence on September 9. The United States reaffirms our commitment to supporting Tajikistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We are proud to continue to strengthen our partnership through economic linkages, expanding people-to-people ties, supporting civil society, and bolstering cooperation Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tajikistan , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy North Macedonia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of North Macedonia as you celebrate 32 years of independence. The United States supports North Macedonia in making reforms to integrate into the European Union and forging ever stronger relations with neighboring European countries. North Macedonia has made great strides to ensure the prosperity of all its citizens while facing global challenges, and we stand with you in your ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Brazil National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Brazil on the 201st anniversary of its independence this September 7th. Brazil and the United States proudly stand together as vibrant and diverse democracies. We strongly value our joint commitment to address regional and global challenges, promote social and economic inclusion, and combat climate change to create a just, equitable, and sustainable environment where all our citizen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Brazil , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Eswatini National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate all Eswatini on 55 years of independence. As you mark this momentous occasion, let us also celebrate the strong friendship between our two nations. We honor our progress on health, climate change adaptation, and addressing a period of unrest. This collaboration has only strengthened the relationship between the United States and Eswatini as we hope for democratic elections followed by an inclusive natio Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Trinidad and Tobago National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Trinidad and Tobago as you celebrate 61 years of independence. As we consider the challenges and opportunities this year will bring, the United States looks forward to working with Trinidad and Tobago as steadfast allies and partners, united by our common values of resiliency, diversity, and democracy. We also look forward to broadening our cooperation under the Caribbean Basin Secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Kyrgyz Republic Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I warmly wish the people of the Kyrgyz Republic a joyous Kyrgyz Independence Day on August 31. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Kyrgyz Republic’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. We look to the future with hope as we continue to strengthen our economic, security, and people-to-people ties, increase women’s economic security, and expand our clean energy cooperat Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Energy Malaysia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malaysia on the occasion of your National Day on August 31. The United States appreciates the past 66 years of Malaysia’s friendship and cooperation. Together, our shared values and deep economic, security, and people-to-people ties have strengthened our bilateral relationship and set the foundation for a prosperous and stable future. We sincerely look forward to m Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malaysia , United States Moldova National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend a warm congratulations to Moldova and its people on 32 years of independence from the Soviet Union. The United States values Moldova’s shared commitment to strengthen democratic institutions and judicial reforms, foster economic growth, enhance its security, and promote respect for human rights. We look forward to continuing this partnership, including through the U.S.-Moldova Strategic Dialogue, and s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Moldova , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Hungary’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Hungary a happy Saint Stephen’s Day as you celebrate over a thousand years of history as a nation. The American and Hungarian people are united in our fundamental commitment to democratic values and rule of law, collective security, and prosperity. It is on this basis that we look forward to increasing our cooperation on shared challenges at an important moment. The relationship bet Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Hungary , United States Indonesia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to the people of Indonesia on the occasion of your Independence Day. The United States and Indonesia enjoy a strong strategic partnership enhanced by our shared commitment to democracy and the close ties between our peoples. I commend Indonesia’s work in facilitating growth and building a resilient future through your Chairmanship of ASEAN this year. I was pleased to participate in Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Indonesia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Liechtenstein’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my most heartfelt congratulations as Liechtenstein marks its National Day. Our partnership is based on our shared commitment to freedom, advancing human rights, and economic prosperity. We commend your efforts in the pursuit of a safer economic arena including by combating illegal banking activities, as well as your support for Ukrainian refugees. Happy National Day, and I look forward to our cont Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liechtenstein , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Indian Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, we send our warmest wishes to the people of India as they commemorate 76 years of independence this August 15. On this momentous day, we reflect on the depth and breadth of our strategic partnership, and we celebrate the proud history of the Indian people, who are the key to the bright future we are building together. This last year has shown that the U.S.-India relationship is deeper and more expansive than ev Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: India , United States Republic of Korea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my warm congratulations to the Republic of Korea as you celebrate your National Day. Today, I want to reaffirm the strength of our Alliance in its 70th year and celebrate our strategic partnership, acknowledging the shared values that form the foundation of our strong bond. The United States remains committed to achieving a truly global partnership between our countries, including by Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Chad National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of the Republic of Chad as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your independence. Our two countries share more than six decades of collaboration on shared priorities. We support the people of Chad in their pursuit of an inclusive democratic transition, leading to free and fair elections that reflect the will of the Chadian people. As Chad pursues this transition, we re Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Chad , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Singapore National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I wish to congratulate the people of Singapore on the occasion of your National Day. The United States and Singapore enjoy a long friendship built upon our shared interests and commitment for a prosperous, secure, and collaborative future. Our enduring strategic partnership is strengthened by our exceptional defense and security ties, deep trade relations, and thriving connections betwee Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Singapore , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Benin National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Benin on marking 63 years of independence. On this national day, we reaffirm the historical bonds between the United States and Benin. Our longstanding partnership is based on our mutual interest in democracy, maintaining regional security, and promoting economic growth. The United States will continue to stand with Benin to promote our shared values. I extend t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Benin , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Vanuatu National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I extend my greetings and warm congratulations to you and the ni-Vanuatu in celebration of your National Day on July 30. For many decades, our shared stories in the Pacific have been connected through past challenges and future hopes. Since the reopening last year of borders which the pandemic had closed, we have worked diligently to reconnect our two countries, and I am excited for Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Morocco Throne Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and citizens of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes and congratulations to his Majesty King Mohammed VI and the people of Morocco as you celebrate Throne Day and the 24th Anniversary of his Majesty’s accession. Our deep and abiding relationship continues to be a pillar of peace and stability for our two countries and the region. We commend King Mohammed VI for his role in furthering regional stability, secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Morocco , United States Republic of Peru National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the Peruvian people on the anniversary of Peru’s independence. The ties between our nations began in 1826, and our relationship today remains strong as we work together to create opportunities for inclusive economic growth and uphold our commitments to democracy and human rights. We look forward to our continued collaboration, including through the Americas Partnership for Economic Pr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Peru , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Liberia National Day Message Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Liberia as you mark your 176th year of independence. The United States and Liberia share a strong bond stemming from our shared history and cultural ties. We remain committed to work with Liberia and re-emphasize our shared values in democracy, human rights, economic development and the environment. Please accept my best wishes to the people of Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liberia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku at a Joint Press Availability Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State PRIME MINISTER HU’AKAVAMEILIKU: (In Tongan.) It is a great honor to warmly welcome to the Kingdom of Tonga the Secretary of State of the United States of America, Mr. Antony Blinken. The visit today by Secretary Blinken is historic. It is the first visit by a sitting U.S. secretary of state to Tonga. It is the highest-level visit we have received from the United States Government in our recent history. There is a clear indication t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Afghanistan, China, Guinea , Indonesia , Israel , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , Solomon Islands , Tonga , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Maldives Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to extend my congratulations and best wishes to Maldives on your Independence Day this July 26th. As you celebrate this important day, Maldives has many reasons to be proud. Your country is a strong supporter of democratic values and an important voice in maintaining the international rules-based order. The relationship between the United States and Maldives is based on shared values of democracy, Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Maldives , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Belgium’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of the Kingdom of Belgium as you celebrate your National Day. Our deep friendship with Belgium is based on our common values and strong commitment to democracy. We have stood shoulder to shoulder in shared sacrifice during two world wars. As founding members of NATO, we established a cornerstone of peace, prosperity, and stability, which the Transatlantic Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Belgium , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy Zimbabwe National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the Zimbabwean people as you celebrate the 43rd anniversary of your independence. The United States remains committed to standing with the people of Zimbabwe, as we have since your independence in 1980, to work together to promote democratic institutions, equitable economic growth, public health, and food security. Zimbabwe has the chance to set itself on a path to promot Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zimbabwe Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Khmer New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I wish all Cambodians celebrating Khmer New Year good health, peace, and good fortune. Khmer New Year is time of reflection. As we review our accomplishments over the past year and the important work that remains, we look forward to continuing to engage with our Cambodian friends and partners to further strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and the Kingdom of Ca Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cambodia , United States Thailand New Year – Songkran Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I wish the people of the Kingdom of Thailand a peaceful and prosperous new year ahead on the occasion of Songkran on April 13. As the United States and Thailand commemorate 190 years of diplomatic ties, I am proud that our alliance and partnership are stronger than ever. Together, we have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic and are seizing every opportunity to deepen and expand our t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Thailand , United States Topics: Coronavirus (COVID-19), Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health Lao New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warm regards to the Lao people as you celebrate Lao New Year this week. The United States greatly values our growing partnership with Laos and our shared commitment to build a stronger future for both our countries. Our bonds will continue to grow as we advance our shared priorities together, including strengthened people-to-people ties, expanded trade and investment, and a commitment to sovereignty Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Laos , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Burma New Year 2023 – Thingyan Festival Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I convey my best wishes to and solidarity with the people of Burma as they mark Burma’s New Year, Thingyan. Thingyan is a time of renewal and an opportunity to reflect on the values of peace and prosperity, to which the people of Burma aspire in their own lives and for their country. In the face of the military regime’s horrific campaign of widespread violence, the United States rem Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Burma , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken at Finland’s NATO Instruments of Accession Ceremony Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Brussels, Belgium NATO Headquarters SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, Secretary General, Mr. Minister, I’m delighted to report that just a few moments ago, Türkiye deposited with me, on behalf of the United States, Türkiye’s ratification of the instrument of acceding to the protocol for Finland’s accession to NATO. And with the receipt and submission of that protocol, I can say that the protocol is now in force. SECRETARY Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Finland , United States Topics: Treaties and International Agreements Bangladesh Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to convey my warmest congratulations to the people of Bangladesh on your Independence Day. As you celebrate your 53rd Independence Day, Bangladesh has many reasons to be proud. With a rapidly growing economy, an increasingly well-educated workforce, and a dynamic youth demographic, Bangladesh is quickly becoming a regional leader. By generously welcoming Rohingya fleeing genocide, you have demonstr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bangladesh , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Greece Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Greece and Greeks around the world as you celebrate the 202nd anniversary of the founding of the Hellenic Republic. As I reflect on the previous year, I am proud to say that the partnership between the United States and Greece and the ties between our peoples have never been stronger. The United States views Greece as an indispensable partner and NATO Al Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Greece , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tunisia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of Tunisia on the 67th anniversary of their nation’s independence. As Tunisians mark more than 12 years since their revolution, the United States remains deeply committed to the fundamental freedoms, democratic institutions, and inclusive political dialogue that both Americans and Tunisians have fought hard to achieve. We also stand by Tunisians as th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tunisia , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Occasion of St. Patrick’s Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Ireland, and all those celebrating around the world, a happy and healthy St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the Emerald Isle’s rich heritage and culture and reflect on the partnership between our countries and friendship between our people. The United States and Ireland cooperate closely in every sphere, bound by our shared love of freedom, democracy, and h Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Ireland , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tunisian President Kais Saied Before Their Meeting Topics Anti-Corruption and Transparency Arms Control and Nonproliferation Climate and Environment Combating Drugs and Crime Coronavirus (COVID-19) Countering Terrorism Cyber Issues Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Energy Global Health Global Women's Issues Human Rights and Democracy Human Trafficking Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Science, Technology, and Innovation SG Security The Ocean and Polar Affairs Treaties and International Agreements Loading...
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our best wishes to His Majesty King Hamad and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain on their National Day.
This year the United States and Bahrain further strengthened our historic partnership and friendship through our third Strategic Dialogue and the signing of the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement. I look forward to deepening our security and economic ties as we work togethe
Regions: Bahrain , United States
Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Science, Technology, and Innovation
On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I congratulate the people of Burkina Faso on the 63rd anniversary of your independence.
The United States recognizes the many sacrifices and lives lost due to terrorist violence and offers its heartfelt condolences. Despite the significant challenges Burkina Faso has faced this year in the fight against violent extremism, the resilience and determination of the Burkinabe peop
Regions: Burkina Faso , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to Finland on the celebration of its 106th anniversary of independence.
Finland stands as a cherished and enduring partner, buttressed by the shared pillars of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Our partnership is a testament to the strength derived from these fundamental principles.
This year holds particular significance for our relationship, as Finland acceded to the Washing
Regions: Finland , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the Kingdom of Thailand as it celebrates Thai National Day on December 5.
This year, the United States and Thailand celebrated 190 years of diplomatic relations—a testament to the strength of our enduring alliance. We welcomed Thailand’s new government, and we will continue to deepen our bilateral relationship. In the comin
Regions: Thailand , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates, and to all our partners and friends in the UAE our congratulations on the UAE’s National Day.
The United States and the UAE are bound together by more than five decades of friendship and partnership. Our many successes stand as a testament to our leaders’ shared commitment to advance regional peace and stabi
Regions: United Arab Emirates , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Laos on the 48th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
The United States looks forward to continuing its work with the Lao government to grow our relationship and support the Lao upcoming ASEAN chair year. We will continue to build strong ties through increased people-to-people exchanges, support for Laos’s development objectives, and furth
Regions: Laos , United States
Brussels, Belgium
NATO Headquarters
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Hello, everyone. It is always great to be with my friend, my colleague, Dmytro Kuleba, but especially good here at – to be here at NATO and sitting around the table together and making sure and making clear – as we heard from every single country around the NATO table – our enduring commitment to Ukraine, to making sure that Ukraine has what it needs to defend itself against Russian
Regions: Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Energy, Human Rights and Democracy
On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I send my best wishes to the government and people of Mauritania as you celebrate 63 years of independence.
Mauritania has shown an active commitment to civilian-led, democratic government and is a strong regional security partner. The United States appreciates the Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania’s
Regions: Mauritania , United States
Topics: Countering Terrorism, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina on marking Statehood Day.
The United States has been your enduring partner for over three decades and remains firmly committed to protecting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and multiethnic character. We will continue to work with institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance the reforms necessary to help secure your country’s
On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of Latvia as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of your independence.
The strong, vital partnership between Latvia and the United States is rooted in a shared commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and mutual respect. Together we are committed to maintaining steadfast support for Ukraine and holding Russia accountable for its unprovoked war. As NATO Allies, La
Regions: Latvia , Russia , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warmest congratulations to the people of Oman on the occasion of your National Day. Our warm and enduring friendship dates back to the earliest days of our republic. We value our history of cooperation, especially the work we undertake together to promote security, stability, peace, and prosperity in the region. We celebrate the success of the inaugural U.S.-Oman Strategic Dialogue earlier this year
Regions: Oman , United States
Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy
San Francisco, California
Moscone Center
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Good afternoon, everyone. Prime Minister, (inaudible) hospitality (inaudible) economic and security partner. We’re also working very closely together here (inaudible) good week. And day in day out, we are working to
Regions: Guinea , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy
On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Angola a heartfelt congratulations on the 48th anniversary of your independence.
I am appreciative of the ways that the United States and Angola have expanded our partnership, especially in the past year. From the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, to increased security cooperation, to the ways that U.S. companies are finding success in Angola, the U.S.-Angola relationship is strong and growing.
Regions: Angola , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the people of Cambodia as you honor the 70th year of your nation’s independence.
The United States will continue to work with Cambodia’s government to advance a shared vision of a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region. We will continue to build strong ties between our peoples, including through educational exchanges, support for the preservation of cultural heritage,
Regions: Cambodia , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate Antigua and Barbuda on the 42nd anniversary of your Independence Day.
Our countries share a commitment to democracy and a desire to promote a safe, resilient, and prosperous Caribbean region. Through the U.S.-Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, we have made great strides in combating drugs and weapons trafficking, and under the U.S.-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC
Topics: Climate and Environment, Combating Drugs and Crime, Human Rights and Democracy
HomeThe Secretary of State Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malawi , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health, Science, Technology, and Innovation Czech Republic National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I offer my sincere congratulations to the people and government of the Czech Republic as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of the founding of a free and democratic Czechoslovakia. Our nations share a deep friendship and an abiding commitment to democracy and the rule of law. We stand united in our support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s war of aggression. The Czech Republic has demonstrated that commitmen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Czech Republic , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Kazakhstan’s Republic Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warmest wishes to the people of Kazakhstan as they celebrate Republic Day on October 25. As the people of Kazakhstan on this day commemorate their declaration of sovereignty, we reaffirm the United States’ commitment to Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We commend Kazakhstan’s steadfast leadership since independence in advancing global dialogue and ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Kazakhstan , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Zambia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer my warm congratulations to the people of Zambia on your 59th Independence Day celebration. The United States remains committed to strengthening our partnership with Zambia, built on our shared commitment to democracy, inclusive economic growth, security cooperation, and health security. Today provides a joyous oc Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zambia Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Equatorial Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to Equatorial Guinea in honor of the 55th anniversary of your independence on October 12. The United States values our relationship with Equatorial Guinea, and we remain committed in our partnership to combat trafficking in persons, develop the initiative on Atlantic Cooperation, and promote maritime security and economic growth. In the coming year, we look forward Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Spain National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warmest congratulations to the people of Spain as you celebrate your National Day. Spain is a close ally and a friend with whom we tackle a vast number of urgent global issues. Our friendship is based on shared values and interests such as the fight against climate change, the defence of democracy, and a commitment to an international rules-based order. The United States is grateful for Spain’s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Russia , Spain , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Fiji National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to congratulate the people of Fiji as you celebrate 53 years of independence on October 10. Since 1970, Fiji and the United States have worked together towards a free, open, and resilient Pacific. Together, we are responding to the climate crisis; countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; addressing regional security concerns; and fostering economic development. The United States appreci Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Fiji , United States Topics: Climate and Environment Ugandan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Uganda on the 61st anniversary of Uganda’s independence. Over the last 61 years, the American and Ugandan people have partnered to advance health, regional security, economic investment, agriculture, and education. The United States continues to support Ugandans in the pursuit of democracy, respect for human rights, peace, and prosperity for all. Iraq National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States of America, I extend to Prime Minister Sudani and the Iraqi people our sincere congratulations as you celebrate your independence. The 360-degree strategic partnership that exists between our two countries continues to advance our shared values as we work together to address global challenges like tackling climate change, promoting economic development, advancing human rights, protecting th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Iraq , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Day of German Unity Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of Germany as they celebrate 33 years of reunification on this German Unity Day. The American and German people share an inherent commitment to defend and promote democratic institutions, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. Over the years, our friendship has grown into a multi-faceted partnership. Today, the United States views Germany as a key G7 partner, vital NATO Ally Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Germany , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Guinea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Guinea on the 65th anniversary of your independence. The United States continues to stand with the people of Guinea in their aspirations for democracy. We support the Guinean people in their pursuit of the return of a democratically-elected, civilian-led government, and we reaffirm our commitment to helping achieve that goal throughout this period of transition. On this occas Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Guinea , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Cyprus National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of Cyprus as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your nation’s independence. The Republic of Cyprus and the United States are partners in pursuit of a more peaceful and prosperous world and share a commitment to democracy, freedom, and human dignity. The bonds between our nations have never been stronger, and we look forward to further deepening the full ra Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cyprus , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Nigeria National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Nigeria on the 63rd anniversary of your independence. The United States and Nigeria have built a strong partnership based on our shared values and common pursuit of a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure world. The United States is committed to strengthening our partnership and continuing to work together to promote inclusive economic growth, safeguard human rights, and combat inse Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Nigeria , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Celebration of Chuseok Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to all Korean people as they celebrate the joyous occasion of Chuseok. This special holiday, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, brings families, friends, and communities together. We are reminded of the enduring spirit of friendship and cooperation that strengthens the bond between our two nations. During this Chuseok holiday, may the spirit of camaraderie and shared val Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Turkmenistan National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Turkmenistan as they celebrate Turkmenistan’s National Day on September 27. The United States maintains an enduring commitment to Turkmenistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rooted in your country’s principle of positive neutrality. As we reflect on our bilateral achievements during the past year, we look to our 32nd year of diplomatic rela Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Turkmenistan , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken And South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor Before Their Meeting Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Washington, D.C. Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone. It’s always a great pleasure to be with my colleague and my friend Foreign Minister Pandor. We’ve had many opportunities over the last couple of years to work closely together, quite literally around the world. But it’s particularly gratifying to have the foreign minister here at the State Department in Washington. South Africa is a vital an Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: South Africa , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Treaties and International Agreements Secretary Antony J. Blinken At a Joint Statement Signing Ceremony with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown Washington, DC Treaty Room SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good evening, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be here with Prime Minister Brown, and a particular pleasure because of the reason we’re here. When we had the initial summit with our Pacific Island partners back in 2022, President Biden announced his intent to recognize the Cook Islands. And today, with the exchange of letters signed by t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cook Islands , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements Malta National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malta as you celebrate 59 years of independence. The United States values its longstanding friendship with Malta, which started at the founding of our nation more than two centuries ago. We are grateful for Malta’s efforts in support of transatlantic and European values, including strong support for Ukraine and its sovereignty in the face of Russia’s aggression. We Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malta , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Armenia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send best wishes to the people of Armenia on your Independence Day. Armenia put itself on a path towards freedom and self-determination when it declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, we have seen your commitment to democratic values, to developing and strengthening human rights, rule of law, economy, and justice for all Armenians. These values echo our own and we are proud to partner with A Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Armenia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tajikistan Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I share my best wishes to the people of Tajikistan as they mark 32 years of independence on September 9. The United States reaffirms our commitment to supporting Tajikistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We are proud to continue to strengthen our partnership through economic linkages, expanding people-to-people ties, supporting civil society, and bolstering cooperation Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tajikistan , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy North Macedonia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of North Macedonia as you celebrate 32 years of independence. The United States supports North Macedonia in making reforms to integrate into the European Union and forging ever stronger relations with neighboring European countries. North Macedonia has made great strides to ensure the prosperity of all its citizens while facing global challenges, and we stand with you in your ef Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Brazil National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Brazil on the 201st anniversary of its independence this September 7th. Brazil and the United States proudly stand together as vibrant and diverse democracies. We strongly value our joint commitment to address regional and global challenges, promote social and economic inclusion, and combat climate change to create a just, equitable, and sustainable environment where all our citizen Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Brazil , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Eswatini National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate all Eswatini on 55 years of independence. As you mark this momentous occasion, let us also celebrate the strong friendship between our two nations. We honor our progress on health, climate change adaptation, and addressing a period of unrest. This collaboration has only strengthened the relationship between the United States and Eswatini as we hope for democratic elections followed by an inclusive natio Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Trinidad and Tobago National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Trinidad and Tobago as you celebrate 61 years of independence. As we consider the challenges and opportunities this year will bring, the United States looks forward to working with Trinidad and Tobago as steadfast allies and partners, united by our common values of resiliency, diversity, and democracy. We also look forward to broadening our cooperation under the Caribbean Basin Secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Kyrgyz Republic Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I warmly wish the people of the Kyrgyz Republic a joyous Kyrgyz Independence Day on August 31. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Kyrgyz Republic’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. We look to the future with hope as we continue to strengthen our economic, security, and people-to-people ties, increase women’s economic security, and expand our clean energy cooperat Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Topics: Energy Malaysia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malaysia on the occasion of your National Day on August 31. The United States appreciates the past 66 years of Malaysia’s friendship and cooperation. Together, our shared values and deep economic, security, and people-to-people ties have strengthened our bilateral relationship and set the foundation for a prosperous and stable future. We sincerely look forward to m Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Malaysia , United States Moldova National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend a warm congratulations to Moldova and its people on 32 years of independence from the Soviet Union. The United States values Moldova’s shared commitment to strengthen democratic institutions and judicial reforms, foster economic growth, enhance its security, and promote respect for human rights. We look forward to continuing this partnership, including through the U.S.-Moldova Strategic Dialogue, and s Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Moldova , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Hungary’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Hungary a happy Saint Stephen’s Day as you celebrate over a thousand years of history as a nation. The American and Hungarian people are united in our fundamental commitment to democratic values and rule of law, collective security, and prosperity. It is on this basis that we look forward to increasing our cooperation on shared challenges at an important moment. The relationship bet Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Hungary , United States Indonesia Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to the people of Indonesia on the occasion of your Independence Day. The United States and Indonesia enjoy a strong strategic partnership enhanced by our shared commitment to democracy and the close ties between our peoples. I commend Indonesia’s work in facilitating growth and building a resilient future through your Chairmanship of ASEAN this year. I was pleased to participate in Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Indonesia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Liechtenstein’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I send my most heartfelt congratulations as Liechtenstein marks its National Day. Our partnership is based on our shared commitment to freedom, advancing human rights, and economic prosperity. We commend your efforts in the pursuit of a safer economic arena including by combating illegal banking activities, as well as your support for Ukrainian refugees. Happy National Day, and I look forward to our cont Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liechtenstein , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Indian Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, we send our warmest wishes to the people of India as they commemorate 76 years of independence this August 15. On this momentous day, we reflect on the depth and breadth of our strategic partnership, and we celebrate the proud history of the Indian people, who are the key to the bright future we are building together. This last year has shown that the U.S.-India relationship is deeper and more expansive than ev Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: India , United States Republic of Korea National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my warm congratulations to the Republic of Korea as you celebrate your National Day. Today, I want to reaffirm the strength of our Alliance in its 70th year and celebrate our strategic partnership, acknowledging the shared values that form the foundation of our strong bond. The United States remains committed to achieving a truly global partnership between our countries, including by Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States Chad National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of the Republic of Chad as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your independence. Our two countries share more than six decades of collaboration on shared priorities. We support the people of Chad in their pursuit of an inclusive democratic transition, leading to free and fair elections that reflect the will of the Chadian people. As Chad pursues this transition, we re Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Chad , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Singapore National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I wish to congratulate the people of Singapore on the occasion of your National Day. The United States and Singapore enjoy a long friendship built upon our shared interests and commitment for a prosperous, secure, and collaborative future. Our enduring strategic partnership is strengthened by our exceptional defense and security ties, deep trade relations, and thriving connections betwee Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Singapore , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Benin National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Benin on marking 63 years of independence. On this national day, we reaffirm the historical bonds between the United States and Benin. Our longstanding partnership is based on our mutual interest in democracy, maintaining regional security, and promoting economic growth. The United States will continue to stand with Benin to promote our shared values. I extend t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Benin , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Republic of Vanuatu National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I extend my greetings and warm congratulations to you and the ni-Vanuatu in celebration of your National Day on July 30. For many decades, our shared stories in the Pacific have been connected through past challenges and future hopes. Since the reopening last year of borders which the pandemic had closed, we have worked diligently to reconnect our two countries, and I am excited for Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health Morocco Throne Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and citizens of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes and congratulations to his Majesty King Mohammed VI and the people of Morocco as you celebrate Throne Day and the 24th Anniversary of his Majesty’s accession. Our deep and abiding relationship continues to be a pillar of peace and stability for our two countries and the region. We commend King Mohammed VI for his role in furthering regional stability, secu Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Morocco , United States Republic of Peru National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the Peruvian people on the anniversary of Peru’s independence. The ties between our nations began in 1826, and our relationship today remains strong as we work together to create opportunities for inclusive economic growth and uphold our commitments to democracy and human rights. We look forward to our continued collaboration, including through the Americas Partnership for Economic Pr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Peru , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy Liberia National Day Message Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Liberia as you mark your 176th year of independence. The United States and Liberia share a strong bond stemming from our shared history and cultural ties. We remain committed to work with Liberia and re-emphasize our shared values in democracy, human rights, economic development and the environment. Please accept my best wishes to the people of Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Liberia , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tongan Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku at a Joint Press Availability Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State PRIME MINISTER HU’AKAVAMEILIKU: (In Tongan.) It is a great honor to warmly welcome to the Kingdom of Tonga the Secretary of State of the United States of America, Mr. Antony Blinken. The visit today by Secretary Blinken is historic. It is the first visit by a sitting U.S. secretary of state to Tonga. It is the highest-level visit we have received from the United States Government in our recent history. There is a clear indication t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Afghanistan, China, Guinea , Indonesia , Israel , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , Solomon Islands , Tonga , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States , Vanuatu Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs Maldives Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I want to extend my congratulations and best wishes to Maldives on your Independence Day this July 26th. As you celebrate this important day, Maldives has many reasons to be proud. Your country is a strong supporter of democratic values and an important voice in maintaining the international rules-based order. The relationship between the United States and Maldives is based on shared values of democracy, Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Maldives , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Belgium’s National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of the Kingdom of Belgium as you celebrate your National Day. Our deep friendship with Belgium is based on our common values and strong commitment to democracy. We have stood shoulder to shoulder in shared sacrifice during two world wars. As founding members of NATO, we established a cornerstone of peace, prosperity, and stability, which the Transatlantic Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Belgium , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy Zimbabwe National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the Zimbabwean people as you celebrate the 43rd anniversary of your independence. The United States remains committed to standing with the people of Zimbabwe, as we have since your independence in 1980, to work together to promote democratic institutions, equitable economic growth, public health, and food security. Zimbabwe has the chance to set itself on a path to promot Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: United States , Zimbabwe Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Khmer New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I wish all Cambodians celebrating Khmer New Year good health, peace, and good fortune. Khmer New Year is time of reflection. As we review our accomplishments over the past year and the important work that remains, we look forward to continuing to engage with our Cambodian friends and partners to further strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and the Kingdom of Ca Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Cambodia , United States Thailand New Year – Songkran Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I wish the people of the Kingdom of Thailand a peaceful and prosperous new year ahead on the occasion of Songkran on April 13. As the United States and Thailand commemorate 190 years of diplomatic ties, I am proud that our alliance and partnership are stronger than ever. Together, we have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic and are seizing every opportunity to deepen and expand our t Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Thailand , United States Topics: Coronavirus (COVID-19), Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health Lao New Year 2023 Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warm regards to the Lao people as you celebrate Lao New Year this week. The United States greatly values our growing partnership with Laos and our shared commitment to build a stronger future for both our countries. Our bonds will continue to grow as we advance our shared priorities together, including strengthened people-to-people ties, expanded trade and investment, and a commitment to sovereignty Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Laos , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Burma New Year 2023 – Thingyan Festival Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I convey my best wishes to and solidarity with the people of Burma as they mark Burma’s New Year, Thingyan. Thingyan is a time of renewal and an opportunity to reflect on the values of peace and prosperity, to which the people of Burma aspire in their own lives and for their country. In the face of the military regime’s horrific campaign of widespread violence, the United States rem Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Burma , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken at Finland’s NATO Instruments of Accession Ceremony Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State Brussels, Belgium NATO Headquarters SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, Secretary General, Mr. Minister, I’m delighted to report that just a few moments ago, Türkiye deposited with me, on behalf of the United States, Türkiye’s ratification of the instrument of acceding to the protocol for Finland’s accession to NATO. And with the receipt and submission of that protocol, I can say that the protocol is now in force. SECRETARY Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Finland , United States Topics: Treaties and International Agreements Bangladesh Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to convey my warmest congratulations to the people of Bangladesh on your Independence Day. As you celebrate your 53rd Independence Day, Bangladesh has many reasons to be proud. With a rapidly growing economy, an increasingly well-educated workforce, and a dynamic youth demographic, Bangladesh is quickly becoming a regional leader. By generously welcoming Rohingya fleeing genocide, you have demonstr Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Bangladesh , United States Topics: Climate and Environment, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Greece Independence Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Greece and Greeks around the world as you celebrate the 202nd anniversary of the founding of the Hellenic Republic. As I reflect on the previous year, I am proud to say that the partnership between the United States and Greece and the ties between our peoples have never been stronger. The United States views Greece as an indispensable partner and NATO Al Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Greece , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy Tunisia National Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of Tunisia on the 67th anniversary of their nation’s independence. As Tunisians mark more than 12 years since their revolution, the United States remains deeply committed to the fundamental freedoms, democratic institutions, and inclusive political dialogue that both Americans and Tunisians have fought hard to achieve. We also stand by Tunisians as th Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Tunisia , United Kingdom , United States Topics: Human Rights and Democracy On the Occasion of St. Patrick’s Day Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Ireland, and all those celebrating around the world, a happy and healthy St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the Emerald Isle’s rich heritage and culture and reflect on the partnership between our countries and friendship between our people. The United States and Ireland cooperate closely in every sphere, bound by our shared love of freedom, democracy, and h Roles: Everyone: All Users Regions: Ireland , United States Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy Secretary Antony J. Blinken and Tunisian President Kais Saied Before Their Meeting Topics Anti-Corruption and Transparency Arms Control and Nonproliferation Climate and Environment Combating Drugs and Crime Coronavirus (COVID-19) Countering Terrorism Cyber Issues Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy Energy Global Health Global Women's Issues Human Rights and Democracy Human Trafficking Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance Science, Technology, and Innovation SG Security The Ocean and Polar Affairs Treaties and International Agreements
Regions: Malawi , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Global Health, Science, Technology, and Innovation
On behalf of the United States of America, I offer my sincere congratulations to the people and government of the Czech Republic as you celebrate the 105th anniversary of the founding of a free and democratic Czechoslovakia.
Our nations share a deep friendship and an abiding commitment to democracy and the rule of law. We stand united in our support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s war of aggression. The Czech Republic has demonstrated that commitmen
Regions: Czech Republic , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warmest wishes to the people of Kazakhstan as they celebrate Republic Day on October 25.
As the people of Kazakhstan on this day commemorate their declaration of sovereignty, we reaffirm the United States’ commitment to Kazakhstan’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. We commend Kazakhstan’s steadfast leadership since independence in advancing global dialogue and ef
Regions: Kazakhstan , United States
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I offer my warm congratulations to the people of Zambia on your 59th Independence Day celebration.
The United States remains committed to strengthening our partnership with Zambia, built on our shared commitment to democracy, inclusive economic growth, security cooperation, and health security. Today provides a joyous oc
Regions: United States , Zambia
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to Equatorial Guinea in honor of the 55th anniversary of your independence on October 12.
The United States values our relationship with Equatorial Guinea, and we remain committed in our partnership to combat trafficking in persons, develop the initiative on Atlantic Cooperation, and promote maritime security and economic growth. In the coming year, we look forward
Regions: Equatorial Guinea , Guinea , United States
Topics: Human Rights and Democracy, The Ocean and Polar Affairs
On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warmest congratulations to the people of Spain as you celebrate your National Day.
Spain is a close ally and a friend with whom we tackle a vast number of urgent global issues. Our friendship is based on shared values and interests such as the fight against climate change, the defence of democracy, and a commitment to an international rules-based order.
The United States is grateful for Spain’s
Regions: Russia , Spain , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy
On behalf of the United States of America, I want to congratulate the people of Fiji as you celebrate 53 years of independence on October 10.
Since 1970, Fiji and the United States have worked together towards a free, open, and resilient Pacific. Together, we are responding to the climate crisis; countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; addressing regional security concerns; and fostering economic development. The United States appreci
Regions: Fiji , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Uganda on the 61st anniversary of Uganda’s independence. Over the last 61 years, the American and Ugandan people have partnered to advance health, regional security, economic investment, agriculture, and education. The United States continues to support Ugandans in the pursuit of democracy, respect for human rights, peace, and prosperity for all.
On behalf of the Government and the people of the United States of America, I extend to Prime Minister Sudani and the Iraqi people our sincere congratulations as you celebrate your independence.
The 360-degree strategic partnership that exists between our two countries continues to advance our shared values as we work together to address global challenges like tackling climate change, promoting economic development, advancing human rights, protecting th
Regions: Iraq , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of Germany as they celebrate 33 years of reunification on this German Unity Day.
The American and German people share an inherent commitment to defend and promote democratic institutions, human rights, and fundamental freedoms. Over the years, our friendship has grown into a multi-faceted partnership. Today, the United States views Germany as a key G7 partner, vital NATO Ally
Regions: Germany , United Kingdom , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Guinea on the 65th anniversary of your independence.
The United States continues to stand with the people of Guinea in their aspirations for democracy. We support the Guinean people in their pursuit of the return of a democratically-elected, civilian-led government, and we reaffirm our commitment to helping achieve that goal throughout this period of transition.
On this occas
Regions: Guinea , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of Cyprus as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your nation’s independence.
The Republic of Cyprus and the United States are partners in pursuit of a more peaceful and prosperous world and share a commitment to democracy, freedom, and human dignity. The bonds between our nations have never been stronger, and we look forward to further deepening the full ra
Regions: Cyprus , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Nigeria on the 63rd anniversary of your independence.
The United States and Nigeria have built a strong partnership based on our shared values and common pursuit of a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure world. The United States is committed to strengthening our partnership and continuing to work together to promote inclusive economic growth, safeguard human rights, and combat inse
Regions: Nigeria , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to all Korean people as they celebrate the joyous occasion of Chuseok.
This special holiday, steeped in tradition and cultural significance, brings families, friends, and communities together. We are reminded of the enduring spirit of friendship and cooperation that strengthens the bond between our two nations.
During this Chuseok holiday, may the spirit of camaraderie and shared val
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Turkmenistan as they celebrate Turkmenistan’s National Day on September 27.
The United States maintains an enduring commitment to Turkmenistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, rooted in your country’s principle of positive neutrality. As we reflect on our bilateral achievements during the past year, we look to our 32nd year of diplomatic rela
Regions: Turkmenistan , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy
Washington, D.C.
Treaty Room
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good morning, everyone. It’s always a great pleasure to be with my colleague and my friend Foreign Minister Pandor. We’ve had many opportunities over the last couple of years to work closely together, quite literally around the world. But it’s particularly gratifying to have the foreign minister here at the State Department in Washington.
South Africa is a vital an
Regions: South Africa , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Treaties and International Agreements
Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown
Washington, DC
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, good evening, everyone. It’s a great pleasure to be here with Prime Minister Brown, and a particular pleasure because of the reason we’re here. When we had the initial summit with our Pacific Island partners back in 2022, President Biden announced his intent to recognize the Cook Islands. And today, with the exchange of letters signed by t
Regions: Cook Islands , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Treaties and International Agreements
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malta as you celebrate 59 years of independence. The United States values its longstanding friendship with Malta, which started at the founding of our nation more than two centuries ago.
We are grateful for Malta’s efforts in support of transatlantic and European values, including strong support for Ukraine and its sovereignty in the face of Russia’s aggression. We
Regions: Malta , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I send best wishes to the people of Armenia on your Independence Day. Armenia put itself on a path towards freedom and self-determination when it declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Since then, we have seen your commitment to democratic values, to developing and strengthening human rights, rule of law, economy, and justice for all Armenians. These values echo our own and we are proud to partner with A
Regions: Armenia , United States
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I share my best wishes to the people of Tajikistan as they mark 32 years of independence on September 9.
The United States reaffirms our commitment to supporting Tajikistan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. We are proud to continue to strengthen our partnership through economic linkages, expanding people-to-people ties, supporting civil society, and bolstering cooperation
Regions: Tajikistan , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of North Macedonia as you celebrate 32 years of independence.
The United States supports North Macedonia in making reforms to integrate into the European Union and forging ever stronger relations with neighboring European countries.
North Macedonia has made great strides to ensure the prosperity of all its citizens while facing global challenges, and we stand with you in your ef
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Brazil on the 201st anniversary of its independence this September 7th.
Brazil and the United States proudly stand together as vibrant and diverse democracies. We strongly value our joint commitment to address regional and global challenges, promote social and economic inclusion, and combat climate change to create a just, equitable, and sustainable environment where all our citizen
Regions: Brazil , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate all Eswatini on 55 years of independence. As you mark this momentous occasion, let us also celebrate the strong friendship between our two nations. We honor our progress on health, climate change adaptation, and addressing a period of unrest. This collaboration has only strengthened the relationship between the United States and Eswatini as we hope for democratic elections followed by an inclusive natio
On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Trinidad and Tobago as you celebrate 61 years of independence.
As we consider the challenges and opportunities this year will bring, the United States looks forward to working with Trinidad and Tobago as steadfast allies and partners, united by our common values of resiliency, diversity, and democracy. We also look forward to broadening our cooperation under the Caribbean Basin Secu
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I warmly wish the people of the Kyrgyz Republic a joyous Kyrgyz Independence Day on August 31.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to the Kyrgyz Republic’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence. We look to the future with hope as we continue to strengthen our economic, security, and people-to-people ties, increase women’s economic security, and expand our clean energy cooperat
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Malaysia on the occasion of your National Day on August 31.
The United States appreciates the past 66 years of Malaysia’s friendship and cooperation. Together, our shared values and deep economic, security, and people-to-people ties have strengthened our bilateral relationship and set the foundation for a prosperous and stable future. We sincerely look forward to m
Regions: Malaysia , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend a warm congratulations to Moldova and its people on 32 years of independence from the Soviet Union.
The United States values Moldova’s shared commitment to strengthen democratic institutions and judicial reforms, foster economic growth, enhance its security, and promote respect for human rights. We look forward to continuing this partnership, including through the U.S.-Moldova Strategic Dialogue, and s
Regions: Moldova , United Kingdom , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Hungary a happy Saint Stephen’s Day as you celebrate over a thousand years of history as a nation.
The American and Hungarian people are united in our fundamental commitment to democratic values and rule of law, collective security, and prosperity. It is on this basis that we look forward to increasing our cooperation on shared challenges at an important moment.
The relationship bet
Regions: Hungary , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend our congratulations to the people of Indonesia on the occasion of your Independence Day.
The United States and Indonesia enjoy a strong strategic partnership enhanced by our shared commitment to democracy and the close ties between our peoples. I commend Indonesia’s work in facilitating growth and building a resilient future through your Chairmanship of ASEAN this year. I was pleased to participate in
Regions: Indonesia , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I send my most heartfelt congratulations as Liechtenstein marks its National Day.
Our partnership is based on our shared commitment to freedom, advancing human rights, and economic prosperity. We commend your efforts in the pursuit of a safer economic arena including by combating illegal banking activities, as well as your support for Ukrainian refugees.
Happy National Day, and I look forward to our cont
Regions: Liechtenstein , United Kingdom , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, we send our warmest wishes to the people of India as they commemorate 76 years of independence this August 15. On this momentous day, we reflect on the depth and breadth of our strategic partnership, and we celebrate the proud history of the Indian people, who are the key to the bright future we are building together.
This last year has shown that the U.S.-India relationship is deeper and more expansive than ev
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my warm congratulations to the Republic of Korea as you celebrate your National Day.
Today, I want to reaffirm the strength of our Alliance in its 70th year and celebrate our strategic partnership, acknowledging the shared values that form the foundation of our strong bond. The United States remains committed to achieving a truly global partnership between our countries, including by
On behalf of the United States of America, I wish to congratulate the people of the Republic of Chad as you celebrate the 63rd anniversary of your independence.
Our two countries share more than six decades of collaboration on shared priorities. We support the people of Chad in their pursuit of an inclusive democratic transition, leading to free and fair elections that reflect the will of the Chadian people.
As Chad pursues this transition, we re
Regions: Chad , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance
On behalf of the United States of America and the American people, I wish to congratulate the people of Singapore on the occasion of your National Day.
The United States and Singapore enjoy a long friendship built upon our shared interests and commitment for a prosperous, secure, and collaborative future. Our enduring strategic partnership is strengthened by our exceptional defense and security ties, deep trade relations, and thriving connections betwee
Regions: Singapore , United States
Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy
On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Benin on marking 63 years of independence.
On this national day, we reaffirm the historical bonds between the United States and Benin. Our longstanding partnership is based on our mutual interest in democracy, maintaining regional security, and promoting economic growth. The United States will continue to stand with Benin to promote our shared values.
I extend t
Regions: Benin , United States
On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I extend my greetings and warm congratulations to you and the ni-Vanuatu in celebration of your National Day on July 30.
For many decades, our shared stories in the Pacific have been connected through past challenges and future hopes. Since the reopening last year of borders which the pandemic had closed, we have worked diligently to reconnect our two countries, and I am excited for
Regions: United States , Vanuatu
On behalf of the Government and citizens of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes and congratulations to his Majesty King Mohammed VI and the people of Morocco as you celebrate Throne Day and the 24th Anniversary of his Majesty’s accession.
Our deep and abiding relationship continues to be a pillar of peace and stability for our two countries and the region. We commend King Mohammed VI for his role in furthering regional stability, secu
Regions: Morocco , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my best wishes to the Peruvian people on the anniversary of Peru’s independence. The ties between our nations began in 1826, and our relationship today remains strong as we work together to create opportunities for inclusive economic growth and uphold our commitments to democracy and human rights.
We look forward to our continued collaboration, including through the Americas Partnership for Economic Pr
Regions: Peru , United States
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I would like to congratulate the people of Liberia as you mark your 176th year of independence.
The United States and Liberia share a strong bond stemming from our shared history and cultural ties. We remain committed to work with Liberia and re-emphasize our shared values in democracy, human rights, economic development and the environment.
Please accept my best wishes to the people of
Regions: Liberia , United States
PRIME MINISTER HU’AKAVAMEILIKU: (In Tongan.)
It is a great honor to warmly welcome to the Kingdom of Tonga the Secretary of State of the United States of America, Mr. Antony Blinken. The visit today by Secretary Blinken is historic. It is the first visit by a sitting U.S. secretary of state to Tonga. It is the highest-level visit we have received from the United States Government in our recent history. There is a clear indication t
Regions: Afghanistan, China, Guinea , Indonesia , Israel , New Zealand , Papua New Guinea , Solomon Islands , Tonga , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States , Vanuatu
Topics: Climate and Environment, Energy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance, Science, Technology, and Innovation, The Ocean and Polar Affairs
On behalf of the United States of America, I want to extend my congratulations and best wishes to Maldives on your Independence Day this July 26th.
As you celebrate this important day, Maldives has many reasons to be proud. Your country is a strong supporter of democratic values and an important voice in maintaining the international rules-based order.
The relationship between the United States and Maldives is based on shared values of democracy,
Regions: Maldives , United States
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my warm wishes to the people of the Kingdom of Belgium as you celebrate your National Day.
Our deep friendship with Belgium is based on our common values and strong commitment to democracy. We have stood shoulder to shoulder in shared sacrifice during two world wars. As founding members of NATO, we established a cornerstone of peace, prosperity, and stability, which the Transatlantic
Regions: Belgium , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
Topics: Countering Terrorism, Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Energy, Human Rights and Democracy
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I congratulate the Zimbabwean people as you celebrate the 43rd anniversary of your independence.
The United States remains committed to standing with the people of Zimbabwe, as we have since your independence in 1980, to work together to promote democratic institutions, equitable economic growth, public health, and food security.
Zimbabwe has the chance to set itself on a path to promot
Regions: United States , Zimbabwe
On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I wish all Cambodians celebrating Khmer New Year good health, peace, and good fortune.
Khmer New Year is time of reflection. As we review our accomplishments over the past year and the important work that remains, we look forward to continuing to engage with our Cambodian friends and partners to further strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and the Kingdom of Ca
On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I wish the people of the Kingdom of Thailand a peaceful and prosperous new year ahead on the occasion of Songkran on April 13.
As the United States and Thailand commemorate 190 years of diplomatic ties, I am proud that our alliance and partnership are stronger than ever. Together, we have emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic and are seizing every opportunity to deepen and expand our t
Topics: Coronavirus (COVID-19), Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health
On behalf of the United States of America, I extend my warm regards to the Lao people as you celebrate Lao New Year this week.
The United States greatly values our growing partnership with Laos and our shared commitment to build a stronger future for both our countries. Our bonds will continue to grow as we advance our shared priorities together, including strengthened people-to-people ties, expanded trade and investment, and a commitment to sovereignty
On behalf of the people and Government of the United States of America, I convey my best wishes to and solidarity with the people of Burma as they mark Burma’s New Year, Thingyan.
Thingyan is a time of renewal and an opportunity to reflect on the values of peace and prosperity, to which the people of Burma aspire in their own lives and for their country. In the face of the military regime’s horrific campaign of widespread violence, the United States rem
Regions: Burma , United States
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Well, Secretary General, Mr. Minister, I’m delighted to report that just a few moments ago, Türkiye deposited with me, on behalf of the United States, Türkiye’s ratification of the instrument of acceding to the protocol for Finland’s accession to NATO. And with the receipt and submission of that protocol, I can say that the protocol is now in force.
SECRETARY
Regions: Finland , United States
Topics: Treaties and International Agreements
On behalf of the United States of America, I would like to convey my warmest congratulations to the people of Bangladesh on your Independence Day.
As you celebrate your 53rd Independence Day, Bangladesh has many reasons to be proud. With a rapidly growing economy, an increasingly well-educated workforce, and a dynamic youth demographic, Bangladesh is quickly becoming a regional leader. By generously welcoming Rohingya fleeing genocide, you have demonstr
Regions: Bangladesh , United States
Topics: Climate and Environment, Coronavirus (COVID-19), Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy, Refugee and Humanitarian Assistance
On behalf of the Government and people of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Greece and Greeks around the world as you celebrate the 202nd anniversary of the founding of the Hellenic Republic.
As I reflect on the previous year, I am proud to say that the partnership between the United States and Greece and the ties between our peoples have never been stronger. The United States views Greece as an indispensable partner and NATO Al
Regions: Greece , Ukraine , United Kingdom , United States
On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the people of Tunisia on the 67th anniversary of their nation’s independence.
As Tunisians mark more than 12 years since their revolution, the United States remains deeply committed to the fundamental freedoms, democratic institutions, and inclusive political dialogue that both Americans and Tunisians have fought hard to achieve. We also stand by Tunisians as th
Regions: Tunisia , United Kingdom , United States
On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Ireland, and all those celebrating around the world, a happy and healthy St. Patrick’s Day.
St. Patrick’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the Emerald Isle’s rich heritage and culture and reflect on the partnership between our countries and friendship between our people. The United States and Ireland cooperate closely in every sphere, bound by our shared love of freedom, democracy, and h
Regions: Ireland , United States
Topics: Economic Prosperity and Trade Policy, Global Health, Human Rights and Democracy