Washington D.C. – On the historic occasion of Sao Tome and Principe’s 50th anniversary of independence, Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended congratulations to the people of Sao Tome and Principe, reaffirming the United States’ commitment to supporting democratic governance and economic growth in the region.
The 50-year milestone marks a significant achievement for Sao Tome and Principe, which gained its independence from Portugal on July 12, 1975. The U.S. Embassy in Sao Tome and Principe has been actively engaged with the country since its inception, fostering strong bilateral relations that span multiple areas of cooperation.
The United States and Sao Tome and Principe share a deep commitment to democracy, constitutional principles, and regional security. As part of this shared vision, the U.S. Secretary of State looks forward to working closely with the Government of Sao Tome and Principe over the next year to expand cooperation on maritime security and support mutual economic growth.
Key areas of collaboration between the two nations include:
- Maritime Security: The United States and Sao Tome and Principe have strengthened their partnership in addressing transnational security challenges, including piracy and illegal fishing. The U.S. Navy’s Africa Command (AFRICOM) has been actively engaged with Sao Tome and Principe to enhance regional maritime security.
- Economic Growth: The two countries are exploring opportunities for increased trade and investment, particularly in the areas of agriculture, renewable energy, and infrastructure development.
As Sao Tome and Principe embarks on its next chapter, the United States stands ready to support the country’s continued growth and development. We wish the people of Sao Tome and Principe all the best as they celebrate this historic milestone and look forward to a bright future for their nation.
By U.S. Department of State