Independence Day Commemorated

United States of America celebrates the anniversary of independence:

The United States of America commemorated the 230th anniversary of its independence on July 4, 2006.  On this occasion, Ambassador David Dunn hosted a reception at his residence on July 6.  Mr. Gilbert Bawara, Minister of Foreign Affairs and African Integration, in Charge of Cooperation represented the Togolese government. Several other distinguished guests took part in the event including ministers, members of the diplomatic corps, political leaders, heads of non-government organizations and religious authorities.  Ambassador Dunn took advantage of the event to emphasize that democracy in the United States is based on "individual liberty and the supreme authority of the law, including freedom of the press and an independent judiciary."  He encouraged political parties to come to an agreement that will end the political crisis in Togo.  He promised to support the Togolese Armed Forces' efforts to reframe its mission in the context of a democracy.  Concluding his remarks, Mr. Dunn stated that before the end of his service in Togo, he expects to see Togo benefit again from loans granted by the World Bank and from debt relief programs as long as  "Togo keeps on conducting economic and political reforms ."  The U.S. Navy band based in Naples, Italy performed for the assembled guests.