On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Mauritania on the 50th anniversary of your independence this November 28th.

Mauritania and the United States have worked to strengthen the partnership between our countries over the last several years and improve our cooperation on issues of mutual importance. The United States fully supports Mauritania’s return to democratic governance, and we continue to seek opportunities to collaborate on human rights, expand economic growth, and promote sustainable development for the people of Mauritania.

I wish all Mauritanians a safe and joyous 50th Anniversary celebration. The United States firmly believes in the promise and future of Mauritania, and looks forward to expanding our partnership in the years to come.