The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the King and people of the Kingdom of Tonga on the eve of their Independence Day (November 4, 2015).

In his message toHis Majesty King Tupou VI, Kingdom of Tonga, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, I have great pleasure in extending to you and to the people of the Kingdom of Tonga warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of your Independence Day.

Ties between our two countries are growing increasingly stronger, both in the context of our bilateral relations and in the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation.

Tonga has made impressive all round progress. I would like to congratulate you on the achievements of your country over the years. I firmly believe that in the near future, our joint initiatives in the areas of environment, agriculture, healthcare and IT will help create a solid foundation for the further enhancement of our valued partnership.

Please accept, Your Majesty, my best wishes for your good health and personal well-being and for the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Tonga.”

This Press Release issued at 1330 hrs.