United States Secretary of State John Kerry issued a congratulatory message ahead of South Korea’s Children’s Day.

Kerry, on U.S. time Friday, issued a statement sending his greetings to South Korean children and families on behalf of U.S. President Barack Obama and the American people.

He also noted that 2013 marks the 60th anniversary of the alliance between the two countries and said he hopes the future generations of Americans and Koreans will continue the partnership between their respective countries and cooperate to ensure a peaceful and prosperous future.