On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I extend my best wishes to the people of Mongolia as you celebrate your 95th National Day on July 11.

When I visited Ulaanbaatar last month, I was deeply impressed by how the Mongolian people have combined your ancient traditions with a modern, forward-leaning society.

In the short 26 years since Mongolia’s transition to democracy, you have made remarkable progress in developing a robust free-market economy, promoting human rights both at home and around the world, and strengthening democratic institutions – as exemplified by your recent parliamentary election and the transition of power from one political party to another.

The United States is deeply committed to helping Mongolia continue down its road to economic and democratic development, and we stand with you as you celebrate this important day.