On behalf of the United States of America, I extend congratulations to the people of Belgium on the occasion of their National Day.
The United States and Belgium share a friendship forged through decades of common sacrifice and a mutual commitment to a safer, stronger, and more prosperous world. The ties that bind our countries together are spiritual, with three American cemeteries in Belgium that are the resting places of more than 13,000 Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice. As fellow NATO allies, our two nations stand at the center of transatlantic security, anchored by Belgium hosting the alliance's headquarters.
Our partnership extends well beyond the defense realm, with our more than $70 billion in bilateral trade underpinning 200,000 jobs on both sides of the Atlantic and showcasing our strong economic ties. Our countries are working to expand cooperation on defense co-production, nuclear energy, and liquefied natural gas.
The United States looks forward to continuing to build on this strong foundation by working with Belgium to advance fair and reciprocal trade, strengthen our collective security, and address the challenges of our time.
On this National Day and on behalf of the American people, I wish the Belgian people peace, prosperity, and joy.
