On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I extend my warmest wishes to President Bounnhang Vorachit and the people of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic as you commemorate your National Day on December 2.

This year marked another high point in our bilateral relationship, culminating in an historic visit by President Obama and the announcement of our Comprehensive Partnership. Together we have built a strong, forward-looking relationship and established closer political, economic, and people-to-people ties.

I also congratulate Laos on its successful chairmanship of ASEAN this year. Laos’ leadership played an important role in maintaining peace and security and promoting prosperity in the region.

We look forward to strengthening our partnership, for the benefit of our two peoples, the region and the world. I wish the Lao people a peaceful and prosperous year.