On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Estonia as you celebrate 97 years since the founding of your republic.

President Obama’s historic visit to your country last year was a visible demonstration of the ties between our two countries.

As he said then, the energy and optimism of today’s Estonians is a model for those yearning for freedom.

Estonia is a global leader in e-governance, Internet freedom, cybersecurity, and free-market economics.

Most recently, Foreign Minister Pentus-Rosimannus and I had the opportunity to discuss issues of mutual importance at the NATO Ministerial in December 2014.

As you raise the blue, black, and white flag of Estonia over Toompea Hill, I wish all Estonians peace and prosperity in the year ahead.

The United States stands with you as a steadfast partner and looks forward to continuing to expand ties between our peoples.

Via US Embassy Tallinn