The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people ofthe Republic of Colombia on the eve of theirNational Day (July 20, 2016).

In a message to His Excellency Mr. Juan Manuel Santos, the President of the Republic of Colombia, 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 to you and to the friendly people of Colombia warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of your National Day.

It is a matter of satisfaction that India and Colombia enjoy warm and friendly bilateral ties. I am confident that our multi-faceted relations will grow rapidly in the coming years – to the mutual benefit of our two peoples. India looks forward to the success of the ongoing peace and reconciliation process in Colombia.

I take this opportunity to convey to Your Excellency my best wishes for your good health and personal well-being and for the continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Colombia.”

This Press Release issued at 1100 hrs.