Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "On behalf of President Obama and the citizens of the United States, I send best wishes to the people ofEquatorial Guinea on your Independence Day.

"The United States and Equatorial Guinea continue to have strong and fruitful economic ties. We are committed to our work together to improve health and basic education. We look forward to continued cooperation between our two countries, especially towards our shared goal of keeping Equatorial Guinea, and all of Africa, polio-free.

"We also look forward to expanding collaboration on maritime security, economic diversification, and good governance for the benefit of all.

"As you gather with family and friends, I wish the people of Equatorial Guinea peace, prosperity, and stability in the year to come."