Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "On behalf of President Obama and the citizens of the United States, I congratulate the people of Bulgaria on your National Day.

"The friendship between the United States and Bulgaria is rooted in our shared commitment to democratic governance, security, human rights, and the rule of law. Both countries underscored that during my visit to Sofia last year.

"Together, we have worked on counter-terrorism, energy security, and education. As NATO Allies, we have deepened our defense relationship through joint and multilateral training exercises, hosted by Bulgaria’s government. In the year ahead, we have pledged to increase our trade and investment ties, strengthen our law enforcement cooperation, promote tourism and increase people-to-people exchanges.

"All told, our partnership makes each of our countries stronger, our communities safer, and our economies more prosperous. The United States is proud to have a close friend in Bulgaria, and we look forward to further enhancing our relationship in the future."