On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Tuvalu on the 35th anniversary of your independence on October 1.

The United States and Tuvalu are working together on issues of great importance, such as climate change and fostering security and development within the Pacific region. It is a priority for us to continue our joint efforts on the environmental, social and economic matters that greatly impact Tuvalu.

I send all the people of Tuvalu my best wishes for peace, progress and prosperity in the coming year.