On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to extend warm wishes to the people of Hungary as you commemorate Saint Stephen’s Day this August 20th.

Saint Stephen’s Day offers an opportunity to acknowledge Hungary’s rich history and the important role it has played in Europe. This occasion also holds personal meaning for me, as I remember my grandmother’s roots in your country.

Among his many contributions to the Hungarian nation, Saint Stephen worked to build and strengthen Hungary’s ties with its Western neighbors, laying a foundation for the strong relationship we share with Hungary today.

That tradition of regional leadership lives on as Hungary holds the presidency of the Visegrad Group this year and Hungarian troops served in joint NATO missions from Kosovo to Afghanistan and beyond. The United States looks forward to continuing our work in pursuit of common goals.

I wish our Hungarian friends continued peace and prosperity and a joyous Saint Stephen’s day.