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Momodou
Denmark
11828 Posts |
 Posted - 06 Jul 2007 : 22:10:32
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US AMBASSADOR HOST RECEPTION FOR THEIR 4th JULY INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION
By Annia Gaye
The outgoing US Ambassador in The Gambia, Mr. Joseph D. Stafford, on Wednesday 4 July, hosted a reception to commemorate July 4 Independence Day celebration, which marked 231st independence of the United States.
Delivering his remarks, The US Ambassador Mr. Joseph D. Stafford said Americans celebrate July 4 as their National Day because it was on this day in 1776 that their founding fathers, who are historic figures, i.e.; Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and John Adams signed the Declaration of Independence. He said it was in 1783 that the United States gained its independence, but nonetheless, the date of adoption of the Declaration of independence seven years earlier was established as their National Day.
He noted that every year on this day, Americans celebrate not only independence, but also the fundamental ideals enshrined in the Declaration of Independence; that “All men are created equal; that they have the “Unalienable” right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness and these rights are to be upheld by a democratic form of government.”
He further said American history throughout has viewed these ideas as the foundation of their society and its institutions.
Ambassador Stafford said the United States is not alone in its attainment of these ideals but the international community, in general, is attached to them including The Gambia whose government and people have made clear their commitment to the equality of all citizens and their “Inalienable” rights, as well as their commitment to promoting democratic institutions.
He observed that July 4 is an occasion to celebrate not only the American experience, but also the shared experience and solid bonds enjoyed by the two countries. He further observed that Americans and Gambians have important interests to pursue in many areas, whether it’s combating terrorism, expanding economic cooperation, or fostering peace and stability in Sudan where, he said, Gambia has troops and police officers. He assured The Gambia government and its people that they can count on the support of the US as they move forward in these areas, like upholding human dignity and freedom, promoting a free, vibrant and responsible press, and strengthening democratic institutions and human rights.
Ambassador Stafford pledged to Gambians that, the US will continue to work closely with Gambia to promote continued progress on reforms and development in a spirit of partnership that serving the interests of both countries.
Speaking on behalf of The Gambia government, the Honourable secretary of state for Foreign Affairs Bala Garba Jahumpa said Gambia and US equally believes in the protection of Human Rights, Freedom and Justice. He said it is their collective responsibility to ensure humanity’s right to education, health, housing, peace and stability are safeguarded. He lamented the suffering of the people in Palestine and Darfur and emphasised that they have the collective responsibility to deal with such problems. He commended the Ambassador for completing his tour of duty and wished him well.
The reception was attended by Ambassadors, the Chief Justice, Secretaries of State, and members of the National Assembly, the judiciary, heads of municipalities, leaders of opposition parties, representatives of the media, civil society and other invited guests.
Source: Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issue
Issue No. 78/2007, 6 – 8 July 2007
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