The United States has congratulated DR Congo on its 51st independence anniversary, being marked Thursday (30 June), while also calling for stronger cooperation between the two countries. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton conveyed the US goodwill message to DR Congo in a statement issued here Wednesday and made available to PANA. 'On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo as you celebrate the fifty-first anniversary of your independence this June 30.

'Our two countries have a long history of partnership on many issues of mutual importance. Today, we are working to build on this history of cooperation to strengthen this relationship even more,' Clinton said.

She assured DR Congo of US support as it works to improve security, respect the rule of law, and ensure the protection of human rights.

'We are looking forward to successful presidential and legislative elections in November to demonstrate Congolese commitment to the principles of a free and transparent democratic system. And we encourage all Congolese citizens to participate in the voting process so that your voices may be heard,' the Secretary of State said.

Pana 30/06/2011