FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Swedish National Day
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
June 4, 2013
On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to extend warm wishes to the people of Sweden as you celebrate your National Day this June 6.
Just last month, I was able to experience in person the generous hospitality of the Swedish people during my visit to Stockholm and my participation in the Arctic Council Ministerial in Kiruna. The United States and Sweden work together on a wide range of important global issues. We greatly appreciate the vital leadership role Sweden plays on the international stage, from its participation in global peace and stability operations, to its promotion of human rights and generous humanitarian and development assistance.
Our close friendship and enduring partnership goes back many years and is based on our shared values and shared aspirations for a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous world. This year we celebrated the 375th anniversary of the establishment of the first Swedish colony in modern-day Wilmington, Delaware, an occasion that highlighted the significant contributions of Swedish-Americans to the fabric of our nation.
On this special day, I extend warmest wishes to the people of Sweden.
