Washington, DC - Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson: "On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, congratulations and best wishes to the government and people of the Kyrgyz Republic in celebration of the Kyrgyz Republic’s 26th anniversary of independence on August 31.

"Today, the United States joins the people of the Kyrgyz Republic in celebrating both this special anniversary and our 26-year partnership. Since Kyrgyz independence, the United States has worked hand-in-hand with the people of the Kyrgyz Republic to promote economic opportunities, democratic values, mutual understanding, and people-to-people connections.

"The United States looks forward to deepening our relationship with the people of the Kyrgyz Republic over the coming years on the basis of trust, equality, and mutual respect."