The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and the people of the Republic of Palau on the occasion of their Independence Day (October 1, 2016).

In a message to His Excellency Tommy E. Remengesau, Jr., the President of the Republic of Palau, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government and people of India, and on my own behalf, I convey my best wishes and greetings to Your Excellency, the Government and people of the Republic of Palau on the occasion of your Independence Day.

Bilateral relations between our two countries are growing stronger. India’s dialogue with Pacific Island countries under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) through the FIPIC –I Summit held in Suva in November 2014 and FIPIC –II Summit held in Jaipur in August 2015 has given us opportunities to understand and address the challenges faced by Pacific Island Countries. I firmly believe that in the near future, developmental initiatives in the areas of healthcare, solar energy and IT will help to further develop this valued partnership. I am confident that the relations between our two countries will continue to strengthen in the years to come for the benefit of our peoples.

I take this opportunity, Excellency, to convey to you my best wishes for your good health and well-being, as well as for the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of the Republic of Palau”.

This Press Release issued at 1700 hrs.