The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the Republic of Indonesia on the eve of 71st anniversary of their IndependenceDay(August 17, 2016).

In a message to His Excellency Mr. Joko Widodo, the President of the Republic of Indonesia, 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 congratulations to the Government and the people of Indonesia on the occasion of the 71stanniversary of your Independence Day.

Our two countries believe in "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity) and share warm and friendly relations which are rooted in our historical and cultural linkages. As the world’s two largest democracies and developing economies with young populations, we are making sincere efforts towards rapid economic development. The positive social and economic agenda of both our nations countries is being appreciated around the globe.

The relations between our two countries have matured into a strategic partnership. The year 2015 witnessed exchanges high level visits that have contributed to the enhancement of our cooperation across the full spectrum of areas of our common interest. India is committed to further strengthen our partnership through the five – pronged initiative agreed by our two nations, which includes robust strategic engagement, defence and security cooperation, comprehensive economic partnership, cultural and people-to-people links and cooperation in responding to common challenges. I look forward to working with you to further strengthen our partnership for the mutual benefit of our peoples.

I take this opportunity to convey to Your Excellency my best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of Indonesia. I also look forward to welcoming you in India, later this year, at a mutually convenient date.”

This Press Release issued at 1135 hrs.