On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of the Kyrgyz Republic on your Independence Day on August 31. The United States stands with the Kyrgyz Republic as you continue to build your democracy with a vision of political and economic opportunity for all.

The United States also applauds the Kyrgyz Republic’s dedication to security and the rule of law. We support the Kyrgyz Republic’s economic and democratic development, and we will continue our work to support regional stability through economic connectivity and improved trade and transit routes.

The United States was among the first nations to recognize the Kyrgyz Republic’s independence 23 years ago, and our relations have only grown stronger in the intervening years. I wish all the people of the Kyrgyz Republic health and prosperity on this day of national celebration.