Anniversary greetings to Belize, St. Kitts from the US

The United States has congratulated Belize and St. Kitts and Nevis on their respective independence anniversaries. Belize celebrated its 32nd anniversary on Sept. 21, while St. Kitts and Nevis celebrated its 30th anniversary two days before.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry in a statement said: “As you celebrate from northernmost Corozal to southernmost Toledo, I wish the people of Belize a safe and joyous Independence Day. On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I send best wishes to the Belizean people as you mark the 32nd anniversary of your nation’s independence on Sept. 21.

“Our relationship is strong and rooted in the shared values of democracy and cultural diversity. We work as partners to promote citizen security, expand trade and economic growth, and build opportunities for all people,” he added.

“The successful friendship between our two countries sets a powerful example for the entire region.” Kerry continued.

The U.S. Secretary of State said the U.S. and the twin-island federation of St. Kitts and Nevis “share a long history of friendly and productive relations. We collaborate on renewable energy, climate change, economic development, and regional security initiatives,” he said, adding that “our commitment to closer economic and cultural ties will continue to unite us in the future.”

Kerry said he was “especially proud” of both countries’ cooperation on the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas and the Caribbean Youth Empowerment Program.

“These challenges are interconnected, and we have the opportunity to address them in ways that move our economies forward and deliver tangible benefits to both our peoples,” he said.

“As you rejoice on this special occasion, the United States wishes the people of St. Kitts and Nevis peace and prosperity in the year ahead,” he added.