The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the Republic of Surinameon the occasion of their Independence Day (November 25, 2016).

In a message toHis Excellency Mr. Desire Delano Bouterse, the President of the Republic of Suriname, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, it gives me great pleasure to felicitate Your Excellency on the occasion of the Independence Day of Suriname.

Relations between India and Suriname are based on the solid foundations of our shared history and culture. Our two countries can look forward to further cooperation in various sectors for the welfare of our peoples. Our common membership of various international fora adds a significant dimension to our ties of friendship and cooperation.

Please accept, Excellency, my best wishes for your personal well-being and for the continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Suriname”.

This Press Release issued at 1200 hrs.