On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis as you celebrate 28 years of independence this September 19.

The United States and Saint Kitts and Nevis have worked together on many issues of mutual importance. Together we are helping to advance democracy, protect human rights, and expand economic opportunities for more people. Our partnership through the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative is enhancing the security and prosperity of the region, and we appreciate the continued leadership Saint Kitts and Nevis has shown in our common efforts to promote citizen safety throughout the Caribbean. As Saint Kitts and Nevis leads CARICOM into the next year, we look forward to deepening our partnership on our shared goals to promote regional security and stability, widen opportunity and prosperity, and strengthen democratic governance and the rule of law across the region.

As you celebrate this special day with family, friends and loved ones, I wish all citizens of Saint Kitts and Nevis a safe and joyous Independence Day.