MOSCOW, September 21. /TASS/. Moscow values the friendship and mutual respect that link it with Belmopan and is committed to developing constructive political dialogue, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in a congratulatory telegram to Belizean Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the country’s Independence Day.

"We value the friendship and mutual respect that link our countries and appreciate that interaction between Russia and Belize is based on the principles of trust and non-interference in internal affairs. We are committed to developing constructive political dialogue, deepening trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian ties in the interests of our peoples, continuing joint work on multilateral platforms and consolidating common efforts to build a fair multipolar world," the Russian foreign minister said.

"This anniversary is an important milestone in the country’s history, symbolizing its path toward sovereignty and an active role on the international stage. This year also marks the 35th anniversary of Russian-Belizean diplomatic relations. <…> I wish you, Mr. Minister, good health and professional success, and the friendly people of Belize well-being and prosperity," Lavrov added.

Belize celebrates its national holiday, Independence Day, on September 21. The country gained independence 45 years ago, in 1981.