On behalf of the people of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of the Kingdom of Bhutan on the occasion of your National Day on December 17.

The United States deeply appreciates the warm ties between the American and Bhutanese people. Our peoples share a commitment to democracy and the rules of law, as well as a deep interest in the promise of scientific discovery and innovation to advance prosperity. We applaud the vision of The King as he guides the country on its path of democracy, development, and regional leadership.

I congratulate the people of Bhutan as you celebrate the anniversary of your nation’s independence.