On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I send warm wishes to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on his 83^rd birthday this December 5, and congratulate the people of Thailand on this national day of celebration.

We honor the many contributions of His Majesty to the Kingdom of Thailand, his tireless efforts on behalf its citizens, and the thriving relationship between our two countries. Fifty years ago, the United States welcomed the historic visit of His Majesty and the Royal Family to the land of his birth, strengthening the bonds of goodwill and friendship between our nations. We continue to build on those bonds today with innovative initiatives such as the U.S.-Thai Creative Partnership and through our cooperation in regional institutions. I was honored to visit Thailand last year for the ASEAN Regional Forum and reaffirm the deep and enduring partnership we share.

The United States is proud to call the Royal Kingdom of Thailand a close friend and ally. I wish King Bhumibol a very happy birthday and the Thai people peace and prosperity in the coming year.