REMARKS BY U.S. AMBASSADOR SCOT MARCIEL DURING THE 243rd CELEBRATION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA’S INDEPENDENCE DAY
June 26, 2019
Good evening. Welcome to all of you. Welcome especially to our guest of honor, His Excellency U Kyaw Tint Swe, Union Minister in the Ministry of the Office of the State Counsellor and spouse Daw May Yin Tun.
Tonight, we’re celebrating America’s 243rd birthday. As you can see, we’re celebrating it with the theme of rock and roll. Why is that?
First, because it is fun, and we hope all of you will have fun.
Second, because rock and roll music is part of who we are as Americans. It has its roots in many other American forms of music, including jazz, blues, country and what some people call hillbilly music. So it reflects our unique history and our diversity.
Another part of who we are as Americans is our belief in freedom, and our admiration for people around the world who have worked, struggled and sacrificed for freedom.
Our relationship with Myanmar, which we also celebrate tonight, is based on many factors, but one important pillar of it is the American people’s admiration for all of the people of this country who have worked, struggled and sacrificed for freedom and democracy.
The struggle for freedom and a perfect democracy is never finished. Not in the United States, and not anywhere else. But every inch of progress means a better life for more people, so it is a struggle well worth pursuing.
As the people of Myanmar continue to work for greater freedom, a better democracy, a sustainable peace and widespread prosperity, we – the people and the government of the United States – will remain your steadfast partner and friend. We care about the people of this country. We want you to succeed, and we want to build an even closer friendship with you as you move ahead.
So tonight, we celebrate my country’s birthday, our friendship, and our continuing admiration and support for all of the people of this country who are working and sacrificing to achieve your aspirations.
Thank you, and I hope you enjoy this evening.
