U.S. Department of State

06/17/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/16/2026 22:17

Iceland National Day

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Iceland National Day

Press Statement

Marco Rubio, Secretary of State

June 17, 2026

On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of Iceland as you celebrate your 82nd National Day.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of our bilateral defense agreement. For three-quarters of a century, this partnership has maintained stability across the North Atlantic and Arctic regions. As the United States observes its own 250th year of independence, we remain committed to this shared security alliance.

Beyond defense, our growing economic partnership is a central pillar of our relationship. Icelandic innovation in energy, data centers, biotechnology, the marine economy, and a rising startup sector drives commercial growth and trade opportunities that benefit both our countries.

This commercial success is backed by robust educational ties and the thousands of travelers who cross the Atlantic each year. The United States deeply values this relationship, which is reinforced by the excellent hospitality your people show to visiting Americans.

The United States looks forward to continuing this productive cooperation to support a safe and prosperous region.

I wish all Icelanders a peaceful and pleasant celebration.

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