Coronavirus: Côte d’Ivoire Independence Day

On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, I send my best wishes to the government and people of Côte d’Ivoire asyoucelebrate 60 years of independence. As ourcountries continue tocombatCOVID-19, we are encouraged by our shared commitment to defeating the pandemic, rebuilding our economies, and emerging from this crisis more resilient than before.

This year,we arealsocelebrating 60 years of strong bilateral relationsbuilt on a shared appreciation for democratic principles and free-market economic growth.It also presents an opportunity forCôte d’Ivoiretoholdfree and fair elections in a peaceful, transparent, and inclusive manner in which the voice of the Ivoirian people will be freely expressed and heard.Doing so wouldserve asa positive exampleforthe region and the world, and providea foundation on which to safeguard the rights of all citizens and increase the remarkable economic gains your government has achieved over the past several years.

As you celebrate this important anniversaryamidstchallenging times, I take this opportunity to offer best wishesfor asafeand healthyholiday and to reaffirm our shared values and longstanding friendship

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of U.S. Department of State.