On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Kazakhstan as you celebrate your Independence Day on December 16.

The United States was the first country in the world to recognize your independence in 1991. Our friendship has only grown stronger since that day twenty three years ago.

I was honored to host Foreign Minister Irlan Idrisov recently in Washington, D.C. It was clear to both of us that we share an interest in bolstering economic ties, securing a reliable energy future, and maintaining regional and global security. We will continue to work with Kazakhstan’s government officials, civil society, and private sector leaders to improve human rights and help build a more stable, secure, democratic, and prosperous future.

As you celebrate this special day, I wish all of the Kazakhstani people peace and prosperity in the coming year.