Washington, DC - Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo: "On behalf of President Trump and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of The Bahamas on 45 years of independence.

"The United States and The Bahamas share an enduring partnership built on maritime cooperation, regional security, long-standing exchanges of university students, and trade- and investment-driven prosperity. This partnership continues to deepen, as evidenced by the successful 2018 Tradewinds exercise and regional security efforts through Operation Bahamas Turks and Caicos.

"Today, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting The Bahamas as we together harness opportunities to build a safe and more prosperous world for the next generation, as underscored in the Caribbean 2020 strategy.

"On this joyous occasion, the United States wishes the people of The Bahamas many years of peace and prosperity."