On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of New Zealand on the 176th anniversary of the Treaty of Waitangi, or Te Tiriti o Waitangi, this February 6.

The United States and New Zealand are both Pacific countries, and our enduring and vital bonds of friendship reach across the great expanse of ocean, and indeed, around the globe. We work together to advance democratic freedoms, fair and open systems of trade, inclusive economic growth, and environmental protection. The United States highly values our partnership with New Zealand as we both strive to make the world safer, more law-abiding, and more sustainable.

Waitangi Day exemplifies New Zealand’s rich and unique heritage. As New Zealanders at home and abroad come together to celebrate this special day, I send you my wishes for your continued peace and prosperity in 2016.