Happy Independence Day, Nauru

WASHINGTON, Jan. 31 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of State sent a "happy independence day" this week to Nauru, a small island country in the South Pacific.

The 8.1-square-mile country is celebrating its 46th year of independence from a UN trusteeship made up of Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Secretary of State John Kerry issued the following greeting:

"On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I offer warm congratulations to the people of the Republic of Nauru on the 46th anniversary of your Independence on January 31.

"The United States and Nauru work together on a broad range of issues, including strengthening regional security, protecting our natural resources, and addressing the impacts of climate change.

"I look forward to forging even closer ties as we build a more secure, prosperous, and sustainable world for future generations.

"The United States stands with you in the spirit of our shared values and continuing cooperation."

[State Department]