The U.S. Embassy in Samoa hosted a reception at Vailima to celebrate the 239th Anniversary of the United States Independence Day.
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United States Ambassador, Mark Gilbert said the occasion is to remember the “day our founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence.”
“This document – is the backbone of who we are as a nation – and – declared to the world that all men and women are created equal and have the right – the inalienable right to life liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” he said.
“From early in our history, America has reached out to those who share our common values of democracy, freedom and human rights.”
The United States first reached out to Samoa in 1839 when a United States scientific expedition reached these islands, soon thereafter the U.S. formalized relations and posted their first consul in Samoa.
“Our ties continue to grow stronger in our second century of friendship,” Mr. Gilbert said.
“I know that the deeply rooted commitment the United States shares with Samoa is based on ties of family, faith and a wonderfully vibrant government to government partnership.”
“That’s why on our Independence Day – Americans recognize the sacrifice and determination of the millions who have fought and are still fighting to protect “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” both for ourselves and for others around the world.”
He added that the love for democracy was something that Samoa and the United States both share and remained united by shared democratic values and commitment to promote peace and prosperity throughout the South Pacific.
“So as we celebrate our Independence Day – I would like to thank the Government of Samoa and people of Samoa for your continued support, friendship and willingness to work with us is so many important ways to ensure that people throughout the world can enjoy those inalienable rights.”
Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi, congratulated the United States and thanked them for their support for Samoa over the years.
The reception was also a farewell for Charge d’Affaires, Peter Ganser and his wife, Michelle. Mr. Ganser is leaving next week to become the United States Senior Advisor for Antarctica Affairs in Washington, D.C.
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