United States Secretary of State John Kerry wished Costa Rica “Pura vida, and happy Independence Day!” in a statement acknowledging independence celebrations here and across Central America this Sunday, Sept. 15.
“On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Costa Rica on the 192nd anniversary of your independence. This day is a well-deserved opportunity for the people of Costa Rica to commemorate their heritage as a nation rooted in democracy and peace,” read part of the secretary’s statement released Friday.
On Sept. 15, 1821, representatives from Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala, signed “La Acta de Independencia,” which asserted their freedom from the Spanish Empire. Costa Rica did not become an independent state until 1838, when it separated from the Central American republic.
Kerry also issued separate congratulations to Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala Friday.
