The citizens of Burkina Faso today celebrated their National Day.
Burkina Faso was ranked the 111th safest investment destination in the world in the March 2011 Euromoney Country Risk rankings, according to Wikipedia.
US Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, speaking in Washington, DC, extended the congratulations of President Obama and the people of the United States, to the people of Burkina Faso.
She noted that the bond between two countries continues to strengthen through our close cooperation on so many issues. She said the United States is committed to the peace and stability of Burkina Faso as both countries work together to build schools and increase girls’ enrollment rates, strengthen military cooperation and training, and harness the power of the Peace Corps volunteers as they help reduce poverty and promote small business entrepreneurship.
She stressed that both countries are strengthening democracy and human rights, establishing new development initiatives and expanding opportunities for more Burkinabe.
“As you celebrate this special day, know that the United States stands with you as a friend, and we look forward to deepening our partnership even more in the years to come.” -Ms. Clinton
Political freedoms are severely restricted in Burkina Faso. The country’s human rights organizations are decrying numerous acts of state-sponsored violence against journalists and other politically active members of society.