Dear Mr. President:

I am very pleased to extend my congratulations on behalf of the American people to the people of Sri Lanka on your February 4 national day. In the six decades since its independence, Sri Lanka has made remarkable achievements in developing its economy, improving access to health care, and promoting universal literacy.

The report of the lessons learned and reconciliation commission provides the people of Sri Lanka an opportunity to move forward after decades of conflict. It is my sincerest hope that the government and people of your country seize this opportunity by making the reforms necessary to build a more peaceful, prosperous, and democratic society. The United States looks forward to working with Sri Lanka to achieve these goals.

Sincerely,
BARACK OBAMA