FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Australia Day
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
January 23, 2015
On behalf of President Obama and the American people, it is my pleasure to send the United States’ best wishes to the people of Australia as you celebrate Australia Day on January 26.
Although separated by a great ocean, the United States and Australia are bound together by our robust alliance, shared values, and common culture. And despite the geographic distance between our countries, I always feel at home in Australia—in fact, when I was in Sydney last August for the Australia-U.S. Ministerial, AUSMIN, I was struck by the similarities to my hometown of Boston, which like Sydney is home to a beautiful harbor and historic ships.
As you celebrate Australia Day, know that the United States stands right beside you as a stalwart ally, partner, and friend. Today, as in the past, the United States and Australia are working side by side to address pressing global challenges—from countering violent extremism and fighting the spread of Ebola to bolstering our economies and creating jobs.
2015 is a significant year in the history of our countries: it marks the 10th anniversary of the Australia-U.S. Free Trade Agreement and the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Australia diplomatic relations. But 2015 is also significant for the potential to achieve even more together. I wish all Australians the very best on this Australia Day, and continued success throughout the coming year.
