Washington, DC - Secretary of State John Kerry: "On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of the 67th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1.

"As the people of China take justifiable pride in their nation's accomplishments, we too welcome the rise of a stable, peaceful, and prosperous China that plays a constructive role in global affairs. Together, our two countries have led the world in addressing climate change and threats to global health. When our countries work together, our own people and the whole world benefit.

"Over the past 44 years, the ties between our nations have reached into nearly every field of cooperation. Individual friendships formed in our universities, laboratories, and boardrooms have blossomed as our two governments have pursued far-sighted and pragmatic policies to promote such interactions.

"The United States remains committed to strengthening these ties between our peoples. As you celebrate, the people of the United States wish the citizens of the People’s Republic of China a peaceful and joyous celebration."