Secretary Nelson Shares Congratulatory Messages from International Consuls Celebrating America250

AUSTIN - Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson today shared messages from Texas' international consulates commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and recognizing Texas' unique place in the American story.

"These thoughtful messages remind us that the ideals celebrated during America250 have inspired people well beyond our borders," said Secretary Nelson. "At a time when Americans are bombarded with news about world conflicts, I wanted to share these messages of goodwill to demonstrate that our global partnerships are strong and durable."

As Texas Secretary of State, Secretary Nelson serves as the State's Chief Protocol Officer and principal liaison to the international consular corps in Texas.

Texas is home to one of the largest and most active consular communities in the United States. Similar to embassies, consulates are established by nations to represent their interests, assist their citizens, strengthen economic and cultural ties, and foster cooperation with state and local governments.

The letters came from consular representatives of numerous countries with diplomatic offices in Texas. Many of the messages recognized both America's founding principles and Texas' distinctive role in the nation's history and future.

The messages included the following reflections:

• Denmark noted 225 years of uninterrupted diplomatic relations with the United States and that, "Texas and Denmark share a spirit of entrepreneurship, resilience, and openness to new ideas."
• The Dominican Republic recognized the United States' legacy as "a nation built upon the principles of liberty, democracy, the rule of law, and respect," and said the two countries share "a strong and enduring bilateral relationship, founded upon common values, close human ties, and fruitful cooperation in multiple areas of mutual interest."
• France wrote that the friendship between the two nations was "forged during the American Revolution and has endured ever since, built on shared history, mutual respect, and a long tradition of close cooperation."
• Germany described Texas as embodying "the dynamism, entrepreneurial spirit, and diversity that have contributed significantly to the nation's strength."
• Iraq called the anniversary "a prominent milestone to celebrate the values upon which the United States of America was founded, "including "freedom, the rule of law, equal opportunity, openness, and community participation."
• Ireland observed that "the story of the Irish in America is evident too in the story of Texas," noting that four Irishmen signed the Texas Declaration of Independence and many others helped build the state.
• Japan wrote that "the United States has consistently upheld the principles of liberty, democracy, and the rule of law," while noting that friendship with Texas continues to flourish through "close economic ties, active cultural exchange, and vibrant people-to-people connections."
• The Republic of Korea praised Texas' "leadership in economic growth, innovation, energy, and global engagement" and said the state's "growing global prominence has created new opportunities for cooperation between Korea and Texas."
• Mexico wrote, "Our relationship has been built over centuries on friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect," highlighting the enduring ties between Texas, Mexico, and communities on both sides of the border.
• Peru noted the 250th Anniversary also comes as the two nations mark 200 years of diplomatic relations. The relationship is "based on a community of principles" and noted that Texas has "become a key partner."
• The Philippines called Texans of Filipino heritage "a living bridge between our two peoples," adding that the state is home to one of the largest and most vibrant Filipino American communities in the United States.
• Poland noted that 2026 marks "250 years of friendship between Poland and the United States" founded on "shared values of freedom, democracy, and mutual respect."
• Qatar recognized "Texas's significant role in fostering international cooperation, economic growth, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding among nations."
• Saudi Arabia described the anniversary as commemorating "two and a half centuries of freedom, democratic governance, innovation, and national achievement."
• Turkey wrote that Texas has fostered connections with Turkey "in trade, investment, energy, technology, tourism and cultural exchange" and referenced Texas as the biggest trading partner of in the U.S.
• Vietnam called Texas "a gateway for international commerce, innovation, energy development, and investment" and "a natural and valued partner."

As Texas participates in the nationwide America250 celebration, the Office of the Texas Secretary of State will continue working with consular representatives and international partners to highlight the state's rich history and its contributions to the nation's first 250 years. Look for updates on our social media channels.

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