SECRETARY OF STATE CLINTON CONGRATULATES ESTONIAN ON NATIONAL DAY

WASHINGTON, Feb. 22 -- The U.

S. Department of State issued the following transcript of remarks by the U.

S. Secretary of State:

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Estonia as you celebrate the 93rd anniversary of your independence this February 24.

Estonia has made remarkable progress since the end of the Cold War. Only twenty years after breaking free from Soviet rule, Estonia has been a thriving example for the region. You have replaced foreign tyranny with democracy, adopted the Euro earlier this year and are a shining example of the power of free and fair elections. Next month you will vote on a new parliament, using the world's first Internet based voting system.

The United States and Estonia have ties of friendship based on common values and interests. We share your commitment to freedom, democracy and human rights. As allies, we stand together in defense of these ideals through economic, humanitarian, and democratic development assistance around the world. Estonia's progress serves as a model for those yearning for something better for themselves and the generations to come.

As you celebrate your independence, know that the United States stands with you, and we look forward to further deepening our friendship and cooperation in the years to come. For any query with respect to this article or any other content requirement, please contact Editor at htsyndication@hindustantimes.com