Clinton to Moldova: Happy Independence Day! You’re making great progress.

In honor of the 19th anniversary of Moldova’s independence from the Soviet Union on Aug. 27, 1991, Secretary Clinton made the following statement, praising the progress the country has made in "advancing transparent governance, human rights, and economic reform." Also, Clinton declared that the United States supports Moldova’s "independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity," most likely an allusion to the whole Transnistria issue.

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Moldova on your country’s 19th anniversary of independence this August 27.

The United States is committed to working with the Moldovan people as you continue building a prosperous and democratic nation. The Millennium Challenge Corporation Compact we signed earlier this year is a testament to the progress Moldova has made in advancing transparent governance, human rights, and economic reform. The United States supports Moldova’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and we look forward to helping Moldova advance along the path toward European integration.

I wish the Moldovan people a safe and festive celebration, and hope to continue strengthening and deepening the cooperation between our countries in the years ahead. 

In the photo above, Clinton and Moldovan Prime Minister Vlad Filat preside over the signing of a $262 million Millennium Challenge Corporation poverty-reduction grant for Moldova on Jan. 22 in Washington.