On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Peru as you celebrate the 195^th anniversary of your nation’s independence on July 28.

Peru and the United States have enjoyed a long friendship rooted in our mutual respect for freedom, good governance, and the rule of law. This year’s presidential election reaffirmed the strength and vibrancy of your democracy, and I look forward to continued close cooperation between our nations under President Kuczynski.

On this day, we are also reminded of two milestones we achieved together this year: the signing of the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the 60th anniversary of the Fulbright Program in Peru. Our economic and people-to-people ties strengthen our historic bonds, and make our countries more open and prosperous.

I wish all Peruvians peace and happiness in the year ahead.