On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to congratulate the people of Antigua and Barbuda as you celebrate 32 years of independence on November 1.

The United States and Antigua and Barbuda share a long history of cooperation and friendship. We work together to defend democracy and promote human rights. Our partnership through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative underscores our commitment to improve the safety of our citizens throughout the region.

The United States remains committed to working with you to create economic opportunities and expand trade, and we look forward to strengthening our partnership in the years to come.

I wish you a happy independence day.