On the Occasion of Sweden's National Day

On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Sweden on the 206th anniversary of the adoption of your constitution.

Sweden’s constitution encapsulates the freedoms to which people all over the world aspire. Together, Sweden and the United States continue to promote our shared values of democracy, respect for human rights, and rule of law across the globe.

We value innumerable Swedish and Swedish-American contributions to the social, economic, and religious development of the United States, such as the historic Swedish settlements in my hometown of Boston, whose traditions we continue to honor today. In particular, Swedes and Swedish-Americans share a rich history of exploration. Swedish-American Charles Lindbergh paved the way for transatlantic travel and Swedish-American astronaut Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin led us to the moon. Today, that legacy continues with Christer Fuglesang, the first Swedish citizen in space.

As you celebrate your national day with family and friends, the United States stands with you as a steadfast partner and looks forward to continuing to address global challenges and expand ties between our peoples. I wish all Swedish people continued peace and prosperity.