English: KAMPALA: On July 5, the U.S. Mission Uganda celebrated the 235th anniversary of the Independence of the United States of America with a formal reception attended by hundreds of local, American, and international guests. The event, hosted by U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Virginia M. Blaser, was attended by Right Honorable Eriya Kategaya, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs, other government and civil society representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps.

In her remarks, Ms. Blaser noted that the relationship between Americans and Ugandans was founded on shared interests and people-to-people ties. She said the United States and Uganda are cooperating on challenges including counter-terrorism, regional stability, economic growth, food security, healthcare delivery, and agriculture productivity.

As the largest bilateral donor in Uganda, the United States will provide over $600 million in assistance to Uganda in 2011. Nearly $400 million is focused on health, including HIV/AIDS care and treatment, and the fight against malaria and tuberculosis. An additional $140 million will bolster Uganda’s plan to rebuild and rehabilitate Northern Uganda.

Ms. Blaser applauded Uganda’s leadership in advancing regional peace and stability, especially the country’s participation in the African Union Mission to Somalia. She noted the U.S. Government is committed to enhance Uganda’s capacity to responsibly protect its citizens from violent extremism.

She encouraged Ugandan public officials to lead with accountability and to treat civilians with dignity, regardless of ethnicity, origin, race, gender, religion, age, or sexual orientation.

The United States’ dedication to democracy, freedom, and human rights remains unchanged even after 235 years, Ms. Blaser told the audience, adding that Americans will continue to work with the government and people of Uganda to promote these principles to build a better world.