WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States looks forward to building and investing in Armenia as part of its commitment to peace and prosperity in the South Caucasus. The remarks were included in a message sent to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of Armenia’s independence.

“On behalf of the American people, I warmly congratulate you and the Armenian people on Armenia’s Independence Day,” Trump said.

“We join you in celebrating your country’s commitment to peace, prosperity, and democracy. For 35 years, Armenia has been a steadfast partner in these values,” the U.S. president continued.

Referring to the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) initiative, Trump said the United States looks forward to building and investing in Armenia while advancing its commitment to peace and prosperity in the South Caucasus.

Trump also referred to an August telephone conversation with Pashinyan, saying the two sides had “made history” in a little more than a year and that Pashinyan’s commitment to peace would create significant opportunities for Armenia, the United States and the broader region.

“The shared values of our peoples continue to serve as the foundation of the friendship between our two countries. I congratulate the Armenian people and your government,” Trump concluded.