Washington, DC - Secretary of State Rex W. Tillerson: "The Government of the United States joins me in sending best wishes as the people of Nicaragua mark the occasion of your 196th anniversary of independence September 15.

"The United States stands with the people of Nicaragua, from Bluefields to Chinandega, from Madriz to Rivas, and all the towns and communities in between, as you work towards a more democratic nation defined ‎by prosperity and security.

"We wish Nicaragua a happy Independence Day celebration."