Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Wednesday congratulated Chinese people on their National Day and reaffirmed U.S. commitment to working with China to deepen bilateral relationship.

"On behalf of President (Barack) Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the Chinese people as you celebrate your 61st National Day on October 1," the secretary said in a statement posted on the official website of the State Department.

"Like millions of people from around the world, this year I was privileged to attend the Shanghai World Expo and to see first-hand how much China has achieved in recent years. Every visit offers fresh insights into the dynamism of this nation and the talents of its people," she said.

Secretary Clinton said she was also pleased to participate in the U.S.-China Strategic & Economic Dialogue in Beijing, which is the premier forum for shared efforts from the two sides to build a positive, cooperative, and comprehensive relationship between the two countries.

"The historic ties between our people run deep, and they continue to bind us together. This year we have launched new efforts to promote educational and cultural exchanges, including our goal of sending 100,000 American students to China over the next four years to learn Mandarin and experience the hospitality of the Chinese people," she said.

"In honor of this festive occasion, I reaffirm the commitment of the United States to working together to deepen our relationship, and I offer my best wishes to all the families of China for a safe and happy holiday," the secretary said.