Washington, DC - Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo: "On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I extend my congratulations to the Nicaraguan people as you celebrate your nation’s 198th anniversary of independence.

"The United States supports the aspirations of the Nicaraguan people to restore democracy to their country by peaceful means, so they can live with dignity in a free and prosperous Nicaragua. We call on the Ortega government to cease its violent campaign against peaceful opposition.

"On this day, we commemorate Nicaragua’s independence and applaud the brave Nicaraguans who continue to carry the flame of freedom and human dignity."