Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to the people of Belgium as you observe your national day.

"Belgium and the United States are long-time allies and friends, and our solidarity endures in good times and bad. The terrorist attacks in Brussels this past March were not only an assault on your great capital city, but also on the ideals of a free and open society. Visiting Belgium in the wake of those strikes, I witnessed firsthand your unwavering commitment to democratic values. The terrorists will never succeed in intimidating us, dividing us, or diminishing our determination to uphold the rule of law and to provide for the safety of our people.

"As a founding member of -- and host to -- both the European Union and NATO, Belgium plays an integral role in the institutions that bind together the Euro-Atlantic community. The United States remains fully committed to this relationship, and to the goals of peace, security and prosperity on both sides of the ocean.

"In this spirit of enduring cooperation and shared purpose, I wish you a joyous celebration of your national day."