FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Statement on the Occasion of Latvia's National Day
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
November 17, 2014
On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Latvia on the 96th anniversary of your independence on November 18.
Earlier this year, the United states joined with you to honor the 25th anniversary of the Baltic Way. We remembered watching in awe as millions of Latvians, Estonians, and Lithuanians linked arms and formed a human chain hundreds of miles long -- connecting Riga, Tallinn, and Vilnius. It was an inspiring act of humanity, one that gave hope to millions of people living under the Iron Curtain.
Today, your unbreakable spirit, determination, and entrepreneurial character are the foundations of your success. You are an example for people around the world who want to be free.
As NATO Allies, the United States remains committed to Latvia's security. We are proud to work closely with you to advance issues including energy security, the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, and stopping human trafficking.
We look forward to deepening our Transatlantic partnership as Latvia prepares to take over the rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union this January.
As you celebrate this day, please know that the United States will always stand with you as a faithful friend and ally.
