Washington, DC - Secretary of State Mike Pompeo: "On behalf of the Government of the United States, I would like to wish the Government of Georgia and the Georgian people a joyous Independence Day.

"This year marks the centennial anniversary of the Democratic Republic of Georgia, the first independent Georgian state in modern history. Since regaining its independence in 1991, Georgia has been a close friend and valued partner of the United States.

"Over the past 27 years, Georgia has made impressive progress in building its economy and its democracy. Georgians also make valuable contributions to regional peace and security, including through their service in Afghanistan, where they serve side by side with American servicemen and women. These achievements would not be possible without the dedication and numerous sacrifices of the Georgian people.

"The United States is proud to continue to support Georgia’s democratic and economic development, its NATO membership, and its sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders. We look forward to many more years of friendship and cooperation between our two countries."