WASHINGTON, CMC – The United States has congratulated Grenada on its 39th anniversary of political independence, which is being celebrated on Thursday.

Newly appointed Secretary of State John Kerry said the US celebrates alongside Grenada “our shared achievements, from the health of our citizens to the security, stability, and prosperity of our region. In addition to our strong bilateral cooperation, we are pleased to work with Grenada toward multilateral goals, such as the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative, the Partnership Framework for HIV and AIDS, the Energy and Climate Partnership of the Americas, and the Caribbean Youth Empowerment Program,” Kerry said.

He said the United States is committed to strengthening the “ties of friendship between our countries as we face the challenges of our region together.

“From Grand Anse Beach to Petite Martinique, as you celebrate your independence, know that the United States stands with you and that we look forward to working with you to build the brighter future that all our people desire and deserve,” the US Secretary of State said.

Grenadians in the US have been marking their independence anniversary, under the theme, “Celebrating 39 Years of Achievement with Renewed Optimism,” with a series of event.

In New York, nationals started celebrations last week with an Independence Anniversary Dinner and Awards Ceremony in Brooklyn.

Grenadian-American New York City Councilman Jumaane Williams, urged nationals to “vote for a government that will address their needs” in the Feb. 19 general elections.

Independence celebrations in New York, organised by the Brooklyn-based Grenada Independence Anniversary Committee, climax on Saturday night with a calypso competition.