On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I send my best regards to the people of Solomon Islands on the thirty-eighth anniversary of your nation’s independence this July 7.

Our two countries’ enduring friendship was forged in World War II.  It has grown throughout the years as we’ve worked together on issues ranging from strengthening democratic institutions to combating the negative effects of climate change.

My visit to the Solomon Islands in 2014 deeply moved me, and reminded me how powerfully our two countries fought together during those trying times.  We share priorities of increasing safety, security, and economic opportunities in the Pacific region and globally, and I look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to advance these goals in the future.