Cabo Verde Celebrates 250 Years of US Independence, Highlights Historical Ties

Cabo Verde's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Manuel Amante da Rosa, spoke at the "Freedom 250" commemorations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence. He emphasized that shared principles of freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and human dignity guide Cabo Verde's foreign policy and its relationship with the U.S. The minister recalled a significant historical connection: the first documented embarkation of free Africans from Cabo Verde to the United States in 1765, over a decade before American independence, which he stated laid the foundation for enduring human and cultural links. He also highlighted the vital role of the Cabo Verdean diaspora in the U.S., particularly in states like Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and California, in strengthening bilateral relations and preserving national identity. Da Rosa noted that bilateral cooperation, formalized after Cabo Verde's independence, spans security, development, and cultural exchange, expressing the new government's commitment to deepening this partnership, especially in defense. He welcomed the U.S. "Trade Over Aid" initiative launched in April 2026, viewing it as a model that promotes trade, private investment, and economic resilience, with Cabo Verde eager to be a partner in this approach. The minister also acknowledged the national football team's participation in the 2026 World Cup held in the U.S., thanking the diaspora and American public for their support. He reiterated Cabo Verde's commitment to being a reliable partner in its region, promoting stability, peace, and international cooperation, and wished the U.S. continued prosperity and mutual benefits from the partnership.