US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, in congratulating this country on its 47 years of independence, reaffirmed yesterday the commitment of the US to work with T&T to strengthen the relationship of the two countries. In a short message sent yesterday, Clinton said she and US President Barack Obama were grateful for the warmth and hospitality of the people of T&T when they visited here for April’s Summit of the Americas.

“We value the partnership between the US and T&T, which is based on mutual respect and mutual interest. “Our two nations have much in common—our values, our history and our hopes for a brighter future for the people of our Hemisphere.” Clinton noted that many families in the US traced their roots to T&T, and they had contributed so much to the culture and prosperity of the US.

“Our warmest wishes will be with the people of T&T as they take part in the Independence Day parades and commemorations.” She acknowledged the national awards ceremony, which will be held at President’s House, and said it would celebrate the spirit and accomplishments of a proud nation. “And the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting will once again provide T&T with a well-deserved showcase of the world stage,” she said.