ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE

SEPTEMBER 15, 2022

On behalf of the American people, I extend our warmest greetings to the people of Nicaragua on their Independence Day.  Our two societies are joined by deep historical, commercial, and human connections that are far stronger and longer lasting than any government.

True independence and sovereignty are concepts that both the United States and the Nicaraguan people value greatly.  Respecting them begins with acknowledging their true source:  the voice of the people as expressed in free and fair elections.  When Nicaraguans can again freely choose their government without restrictions on their speech or political participation, free from fear of unjust detention, they will be able to chart their own course and realize their full potential.

The United States will continue to support, along with other democratic nations, the legitimate aspirations of the Nicaraguan people for the restoration of democracy, respect for human rights and the rule of law, and overcoming the daunting obstacles that they face today.  COVID-19 tested the resolve of both our countries, and together we fought back against the pandemic in Nicaragua, including through the work of thousands of Nicaraguans and the donation of medical supplies and more than 1.6 million Pfizer vaccines from the people of the United States. We are ready to engage in or support good-faith efforts designed to overcome current conflicts and build a better future in which all Nicaraguans can prosper.