On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of the Republic of Suriname as they celebrate 34 years as an independent nation on November 25.  Our two nations are united by enduring links of culture and commerce, and by our shared commitment to advance peace, democracy, and human rights across the Americas and the world.  Our partnership is based on mutual respect and mutual interest, and we are working together to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of the 21^st century – from spurring economic growth and protecting the environment to promoting public health and regional security.

This is an occasion to honor Suriname’s cultural heritage and reaffirm our faith in its people and its future.  I offer warm wishes to everyone participating in the festivities, especially the runners in the Suriname Independence Day Marathon.  I am proud that several U.S. national guardsmen from South Dakota will represent the United States in the race as participants in the Suriname-South Dakota Partnership, an example of the powerful bonds between our people.