US Ambassador to the Kingdom Joseph W. Westphal hosted a reception in Riyadh on Sunday to celebrate the 240th anniversary of the American independence. The guests included Riyadh Emir Prince Faisal Bin Bandar and other Saudi dignitaries. Independence Day is celebrated in the United States each July 4 to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on that date in 1776. "In Saudi Arabia, we are celebrating in February to take advantage of the pleasant weather. This year's National Day also closely coincides with the President's Day, celebrated on the third Monday of February to honor all of the presidents who have served the United States," said an embassy release. In his welcome address, Ambassador Westphal thanked everyone who attended the reception. "I want to especially thank His Royal Highness Prince Faisal Bin Bandar. He is such a great friend of the United States ... I've enjoyed so much getting to know him in the two years I've been here as ambassador," he said. The occasion also marked the 71st anniversary of the historic meeting between President Franklin Roosevelt and King Abdulaziz, at which the deep friendship between the two countries was founded. That meeting took place on Feb. 14, 1945 on the cruiser USS Quincy. The US ambassador's residence in Riyadh, Quincy House, takes its name from that meeting. This year's theme, State Fair, offered an opportunity to experience a celebration of the US culture, commerce and cuisine. State Fairs are held annually throughout the United States, highlighting unique aspects of each state, hosting friendly competitions and offering a variety of entertainment.
