285. Letter from President Carter to Governor General of Tuvalu Teo1
The American people join me in sending best wishes to you and the people of Tuvalu. I am pleased to inform you that, as Tuvalu attains independence, the United States Government extends its recognition. It is our hope that, with your agreement, diplomatic relations can be established between our two countries.
We believe that friendly and productive relations will develop between the United States and Tuvalu. The economic ties between our two countries that began over one hundred years ago, and the American presence on Funafuti during World War II, form a rich part of American history in the Pacific. We intend to continue these ties, and to demonstrate our mutual concern for economic progress, human rights and democratic government.
We are confident that the friendship between our two countries will grow even closer in the years to come. The Government and the people of the United States share your aspirations for the progress and welfare of the people of Tuvalu, and we look forward to working together with you in your efforts to realize those goals.
Sincerely,
- Source: Carter Library, National Security Affairs, Staff Material, Platt Chron File, Box 65, 9/1–22/78. No classification marking. Tuvalu became independent on October 1.↩