On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Turkmenistan as you celebrate twenty-one years of independence this October 27th.

The governments of the United States and Turkmenistan have both shown a strong commitment to enhancing our bilateral partnership. The United States greatly appreciates Turkmenistan’s cooperation and work to promote stability, integration, and prosperity in the region. We are working to broaden economic and commercial ties, build democratic institutions, and ensure the protection of human rights.

I wish the people of Turkmenistan a very happy Independence day with peace and prosperity in the years to come.