The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the Republic of Mauritius on the eve of their Independence Day (March 12, 2017).

In a message to Her Excellency Dr. (Mrs.) Ameenah Gurib- Fakim, the President of the Republic of Mauritius, the President has said, “On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, it is with great pleasure that I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency and to the people of Mauritius on the occasion of your Independence Day.

India and Mauritius enjoy a unique and special relationship based on civilisational ties of kinship and shared cultural affinities. 12th March symbolises our common struggle for independence and the cherished values of democracy. Today, both our countries are collaborating closely to ensure peace, stability and progress in the Indian Ocean region.

Our multifaceted bilateral co-operation has intensified in recent years. We are happy to be associated with several new developmental projects of the Government of Mauritius which are now under implementation. India is pleased to have announced a special dispensation for Mauritius in our OCI Card Scheme. We are confident that our bilateral relationship will grow from strength to strength in the coming years.

Please accept, Excellency, my best wishes for your personal well-being and success, as well as for the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of the Republic of Mauritius”.

This release issued at 1520 hrs.