On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I would like to congratulate President Choummaly Sayasone and the people of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic as you celebrate your National Day on December 2.

This year marks 64 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Laos, and our longstanding cooperation continues to deepen.

The United States remains committed to working with the Lao Government to achieve its development goals in areas such as health and nutrition, education, and economic growth. We will continue to work in partnership with Laos to address the legacy of the Indochinese conflict by reducing the impact of unexploded ordnance and accounting for U.S. personnel missing in action. Looking ahead, the United States welcomes new opportunities to enhance the close partnership between our two nations.

I wish the Lao people peace, prosperity, and happiness in the coming year.