Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate the people of Switzerland on your National Day on August 1.

"The United States is proud to count Switzerland among its closest friends and partners. Our countries share a deep bond rooted in our common ideals – democracy, support for peace, and a commitment to the rule of law – as well as our robust and expanding trade and investment ties.

"Switzerland has long been an important contributor to global stability, and we appreciate your efforts to promote political dialogue, provide humanitarian assistance, and support economic development around the world. We are particularly grateful for your willingness in recent years to host negotiations that advanced the cause of peace and security through agreements to rid Syria of chemical weapons and block every one of Iran’s pathways to developing a nuclear capability. And we look forward to working shoulder-to-shoulder with you to enhance the best interests of both our countries and to encourage widespread diplomatic and social progress in the coming year.

"On this special day, I send my best wishes to all the people of Switzerland for continued prosperity and happiness."