The citizens of Australia today celebrated their National Day.
Both the United States and Australia share some common ancestry and history. Both countries have been British colonies. Both countries had native peoples who were dispossessed of their land. Both have been part of the Western alliance of nations in various wars. There are numerous other similarities, 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 Malaysia on their National Day.
“As we mark more than six decades of the U.S.-Australia alliance – an anchor of stability, security and prosperity throughout the world – we continue to strengthen this friendship and chart a common path forward together.” -Ms. Clinton
She stated that late last year, President Obama joined Prime Minister Gillard in Australia to reaffirm the depth of their strategic partnership and find new ways to work together to expand stability and opportunity in the Asia-Pacific region and around the world.
She stressed that the ties between their people and nations are as close as any.
“As you celebrate your national day with family, friends, and loved ones, know that the United States stands with you as a committed partner joined by common bonds of friendship and family.” – Ms. Clinton
She wished all Australians a safe and happy holiday celebration and continued peace and prosperity in the coming year.
The first Australian visit by a US President was that of Lyndon B. Johnson in 1966, to seek support for Australia’s ongoing involvement in the Vietnam war. Australia had previously sent advisers and combat troops to Vietnam. In 1992, George H. W. Bush was the first of four US Presidents to address a joint meeting of the Australian Parliament.
In Australia, Prime Minister Julia Gillard attended a citizenship ceremony (see the video below). After which she said, “Congratulations to our new Australian Citizens.” On this day, 13,000 migrants became Australian citizens.
Because of Australian citizenship requirements, migrants from some countries had to give up the citizenship of their own country, before they could become Australian citizens.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wev-WXFbZ5Q
