The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and the people of Turkmenistan on the eve of their Independence Day (October 27, 2015).

In his message to His Excellency Mr. Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, the President of Turkmenistan, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, it gives me great pleasure to convey warm greetings and felicitations to you and to the people of Turkmenistan on the occasion of the 24th anniversary of your Independence Day.

We, in India, are happy to see the rapid economic growth and development achieved by Turkmenistan under your able leadership and guidance.

India and Turkmenistan share a strong bond of friendship based on a common foundation of historical and civilisational linkages. The visit of our Prime Minister to Turkmenistan in July 2015 was a reaffirmation of our commitment to deepen engagement with Turkmenistan in areas of mutual interest.

I take this opportunity to convey my best wishes for Your Excellency’s personal health and well-being and for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of Turkmenistan”.

This Press Release issued at 1250 hrs.