The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has conveyed his greetings and felicitations to H.M. Emperor Akihito of Japan on his birthday which is on December 23, 2016.

In his message, the President has said, "On behalf of the government and the people of India as well as on my own behalf, I would like to convey warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of Your Majesty’s Birthday.

India and Japan enjoy traditionally warm and friendly relations. Our ‘Special Strategic and Global Partnership’ builds upon our civilizational links and shared heritage of Hindu-Buddhist thought and philosophy. As vibrant democracies and two large Asian economies, we are working together to address contemporary issues and to advance the cause of peace, progress and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. I am confident that our cooperation in diverse sectors will further strengthen our bilateral relationship.

Please accept my best wishes for Your Majesty’s good health and personal well-being as well as for the continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Japan”.

This Press Release issued at 1200 hrs.