On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Hungary as you celebrate Saint Stephen’s Day this August 20th.

The United States values its partnership with Hungary. As NATO allies and members of the broader transatlantic community, we share the burden of combating new and emerging challenges to global security, from Iraq and Afghanistan to the realm of cybersecurity.

Our partnership also reminds us of our obligations to uphold the principles of democracy, rule of law, and human rights domestically and abroad, working to advance the causes of peace, freedom, and human dignity.

On this special day, the United States wishes the people of Hungary continued peace and prosperity in the years to come. The United States looks forward to continuing the strong collaboration between our nations across a range of mutual interests.