On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate the people of Saint Lucia on 37 years of independence.

Defined by its welcoming population, lively music, and beautiful beaches, St. Lucia is a major tourist attraction for travelers from around the world – and it is a key partner to the United States on a wide range of critical issues in the Caribbean and across the Western Hemisphere.

Together, our nations work to promote citizen security, good governance, respect for the rule of law, and human rights. Our countries support energy diversification through the Caribbean Energy Security Initiative. And our peoples are connected through programs implemented by the State Department, by the efforts of the U.S. Agency for International Development, and by the steady stream of Peace Corps volunteers who have served in St. Lucia since 1961.

On this special day, as the people of St. Lucia celebrate another year of independence, I offer my best wishes and express confidence that our friendship will grow and prosper for decades to come.