The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the United States of America on the eve of their Independence Day (July 04, 2016).

In a message to His Excellency Mr. Barack Obama, the President of the United States of America, 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 you and to the people of the United States of America on the occasion of your Independence Day.

It is a matter of satisfaction that the close relations between India and the United States of America are based on shared values of democracy, pluralism and rule of law – and strengthened by our increasing convergence on bilateral, regional and global issues. Over the years, we have built on our numerous synergies to achieve the common goals identified by us – for the good of our two peoples and peace, progress and prosperity in the world.

Our recent high level interactions have helped to enhance our mutual understanding and brought us closer to realizing the true potential of our multi-faceted partnership. I am confident that the positive outcomes of Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the US will contribute to the further strengthening of our strategic partnership.

I take this opportunity to convey to you my best wishes for your good health and well-being as well as for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of the United States of America.”

This Press Release issued at 1145 hrs.