On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Canada as you celebrate the 144th Anniversary of your Confederation this July 1.

Canada and the United States share an enduring history of friendship and alliance in times of peace as well as war. We have come together to trade, exchange perspectives, and to solve problems throughout our hemisphere and the world. We share thousands of miles of geography and hundreds of years of history, and together we have created a culture of friendship and family between our peoples.

As Americans, we cherish our close relationship with Canada. In these days of challenge and opportunity, we will continue to work closely together to address our common challenges of the 21st century. From Cape Spear to the Queen Charlotte Islands to the farthest reaches of the North, wherever you gather to sing "O Canada," I wish all Canadians a safe and happy Canada Day celebration.