On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Honduras as you celebrate 190 years of independence this September 15.

The United States and Honduras enjoy a strong relationship based on shared values and close economic ties, deepened by the nearly one million residents of Honduran descent in the United States who enrich our culture and bring our nations even closer together. It is my hope that these bonds will strengthen even more as Honduras continues on its path toward greater growth and prosperity.

The United States looks forward to strengthening and deepening our already strong relationship with the Honduran government and people to ensure that all Hondurans are able to live up to their full potential. Please accept my warmest wishes for a safe and happy independence day.