On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to congratulate all Malaysians as you celebrate your 56th Independence Day on August 31.

The United States is proud to call Malaysia a partner and a friend. The longstanding ties between our people are closer than ever, through initiatives like the Fulbright English Teaching Assistant program, expanded university ties, and enhanced scientific collaboration.

Malaysia’s hosting of the Global Entrepreneurship Summit on October 11-12 will bring together innovators, entrepreneurs, governments, private sector, and academics from around the globe, and will help our young people prosper.

Our robust trade and investment relationship has long benefited both our countries and will continue to do so into the future.

I wish all Malaysians around the world a Happy Merdeka Day. Selamat Hari Kemerdekaan.