The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka on the eve of the 68th Anniversary of their Independence (February 4, 2016).

In a message toHis Excellency Mr. Maithripala Sirisena, the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, it gives me immense pleasure to extend warm felicitations and best wishes to Your Excellency and to the people of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka on the occasion of the 68th Anniversary of your Independence.

The ties of friendship between India and Sri Lanka go back centuries and have matured over time to include all areas of contemporary relevance. I am confident that the renewed vigour in the Sri Lankan polity under your leadership will not only allow you to realize your vision for Sri Lanka but also strengthen the partnership between India and Sri Lanka for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries.

I would like to take this opportunity to assure you that, as a close friend and neighbour, we support your vision for Sri Lanka.

Please accept, Excellency, my best wishes for your good health and personal well being as well as for the continued progress, prosperity and happiness of the people of Sri Lanka”.

This Press Release issued at 1200 hrs.