The citizens of today celebrated the 52nd anniversary of their independence.
Togo became independent on April 27, 1960. On the 1961 elections which established a presidential form of government, Olympio became the first president. Olympio maintained economic partnership with France.
US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton sent her best wishes on behalf President Obama and the people of the United States to the people of Togo as they celebrate the anniversary of their independence.
She says earlier this year, Ms. Clinton visited Togo to see firsthand how the two countries partner together to promote democracy, good governance, and economic development.
Togo has held two peaceful elections declared credible by international observers and the United States looks forward to continuing its work with the government of Togo to consolidate democratic gains and economic growth, especially as Togo prepares for your elections later this year, Ms. Clinton cited.
“We congratulate Togo on its seat at the United Nations Security Council.” -Ms. Clinton
The United States hopes to continue to work with Togo to advance issues of mutual importance, from maritime security and piracy to economic development and regional trade.
“As you celebrate your National Day know that the United States is your partner and friend, and we are committed to a brighter future for all Togolese.” -Ms. Clinton
Togo has been selected by the United Nations General Assembly to occupy a non-permanent seat from 2012-2013. The United Nations Security Council comprises five permanent members- China, France, Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States- and ten non-permanent members. Togo was chosen amongst two other African competitors – Morocco and Mauritania to occupy one of the two non-permanent seats that are devoted to the African region.
Togo has a long-standing history in promoting and resolving international crises. Currently, Togolese troops are deployed in peace-keeping missions all over Africa – in Cote d’Ivoire, Sudan, Democratic Republic of the Congo – and in Haiti. Despite its small size, Togo is among the countries that have provided the largest deployment of United Nations peacekeeping troops in Cote d’Ivoire to promote peace, security, stability, human rights and sustainable development in the country and sub-region. It was upon these achievements, among the others, that the country was elected.
Togo held its first mandate as a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council from 1982 – 1983. The country that will occupy the seat from 2012 onwards is a very different country than it was almost thirty years ago. As a nation, Togo continues to make progress with its economy and with political stability. The country has seen significant development since the 2005 election of President Faure Gnassingbe. For example, since 2009, Togo’s debt has decreased by 82% and last year the country invested 1,000 billion CFA into its infrastructure.
Investment in the country and the well-being of its citizens is a top priority for the President’s administration. In 2010 alone, access to clean water increased by 38% and the number of school teachers has been increased by 40% since 2007. In 2008, free primary school education was introduced for all children as part of its broad education initiative.
