WASHINGTON, D.C. (BNO NEWS) — U.S. President Barack Obama sent his congratulations to Serbia on Monday, which is celebrating its Statehood Day.

Statehood Day (Дан државности in Serbian) is a national holiday which commemorates the First Serbian Uprising, which lasted from 1804 until 1813. The revolution resulted in Serbia becoming an independent state for the first time in more than 400 years.

“On behalf of the American people, I send my congratulations and best wishes to all those who are observing Serbian National Day,” Obama said. “The United States and Serbia are strong partners, and here in America, those of Serbian descent enrich our national diversity and identity.”

Obama said he looks forward to a continued friendship and strengthened partnership between the two countries.