The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the King and people ofthe Kingdom of Bahrain on the eve of their National Day (December 16, 2016).

In a message to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa, the King ofthe Kingdom of Bahrain,the President has said, "On behalf of the Government and the people of India and on my own behalf, I have great pleasure in extending to Your Majesty and the friendly people of the Kingdom of Bahrain warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of your national day.

Our two countries have historically enjoyed close and cordial relations anchored in our shared interests and extensive people-to-people contacts. I am confident that our mutually beneficial partnership encompassing various spheres of engagement will continue to diversity and strengthen in the years to come.

I take this opportunity to convey to Your Majesty my best wishes for your personal good health and well-being, as also for the continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of the Kingdom of Bahrain”.

This Press Release issued at 1200 hrs.