On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Libya as you celebrate the second anniversary of your day of liberation on October 23, and applaud your commitment to a challenging and historic transition from decades of dictatorship to a decidedly new and democratic Libya.

We honor and remember Libyans from all backgrounds who joined together to put an end to 42 years of brutal tyranny.

They made great sacrifices – losing lives and loved ones – in hopes of creating a better life for their children and building a country where a free people are empowered to choose their own futures without fear.

Too much blood has been spilled and too many lives sacrificed to go backwards.

The United States will continue to stand with the people of Libya and their government as they work to build a free, democratic, prosperous and secure nation.

We know well from our own history that building a democracy is neither easy nor immediate. It is a long-term endeavor with many challenges along the way.

I am confident the Libyan people will achieve their legitimate aspirations for a democratic country based on the rule of law and respect for human rights.