The U.S. Ambassador in Chile, Michael Hammer, held a traditional reception to commemorate the 238th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence at his residence on June 26th.
Government officials, members of Congress, representatives of army, ambassadors and friends all attended the celebration. In his welcoming remarks, the Ambassador highlighted the upcoming U.S. visit of President Michelle Bachelet, where she will meet with President Barack Obama, offering ‘an opportunity to strengthen our close and good relations’.
The Ambassador added that ‘among the topics to be discussed will be increasing our cooperation in educational exchanges, science and technology, energy and trilateral assistance — in which Chile and the United States work together to assist in development in third countries.’
He also pointed out that it would be good to address issues like President Obama’s 100,000 Strong in the Americas initiative, that seeks to increase the number of exchanges in education, and working together in the United Nations to advance peace and security.
Along with the visit of President Bachelet to the United States, Ambassador Hammer mentioned cooperation on global challenges such as climate change, and he highlighted the recent participation of the Foreign Minister Heraldo Muñoz in the Oceans Conference organized by Secretary Kerry — which Chile will host the coming year in Valparaiso.
Ambassador Hammer, accompanied by his wife Margret, explained that the celebration of the 4th of July is a very special day, an occassion to get together with family and friends to celebrate the freedoms and fundamental rights enjoyed by being American. He noted that it is traditional on that day to ‘hold parades, picnics, barbecues and fireworks’. The Ambassador also thanked all the companies that generously donated food and beverages for this celebration. And, finally, he cheered that the “Team USA” had advanced to the second round of the World Cup, and predicted hopefully they will play in the finals against “La Roja.” As for that possibility, he added, “may the best team win.”
See more photos of the event here.
