On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Guatemala as you celebrate your independence this September 15. We join with you as you commemorate the founding of “the land of eternal spring.”

Our two nations are bound by our diversity, rich history, cultural traditions, and warm ties of family and friends. We share a commitment to important values like the respect for human rights and human dignity, democratic governance, and equal opportunity for all our citizens. We take particular inspiration in the story of María Dolores Bedoya, the hero of Guatemalan Independence, who also reminds us of the profound role women – and all members of society – play in building a better future.

Let us take this opportunity to renew the deep bonds of our friendship as we work together to build a safer, more prosperous and democratic future for all our people.