Washington, DC - Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo: "On behalf of the people of the United States of America, my warmest congratulations to the people of Trinidad and Tobago as you celebrate 56 years of independence on August 31.

"The people of the United States and Trinidad and Tobago have always enjoyed rich cross-cultural exchange, friendship, and the shared goal of building a more safe and secure region as underscored in the Caribbean 2020 strategy. We thank Trinidad and Tobago for hosting the joint Fused Response exercise this year, which demonstrated the importance of our cooperation in security and emergency preparedness.

"We are grateful for the continued strong partnership as our countries work to deepen cooperation on trade, energy, and opportunity for all.

"Today, we wish Trinbagonians from both beautiful islands a happy Independence Day with peace and prosperity throughout the year to come."