President of India’s Message on the Eve of Freedom Day of South Africa

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Governmentand people ofthe Republic of South Africaon the eveofthe Freedom Day of South Africa(April 27, 2015).

In his message toHis Excellency Mr. Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, the President of the Republic of South Africa,the President has said, "On behalf of the Government and the people of India and on my own behalf, it gives me great pleasure to extend to the friendly people of South Africa warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of the Freedom Day of South Africa.

The relationship between India and South Africa is deeply rooted in history, and over the years, has evolved into a strategic partnership, characterized by multi-faceted engagement covering a range of activities in the political, economic and cultural fields.Our co-operation under the IBSA and the BRICS forum adds even greater value and substance to our engagement.I am confident that in the coming years, we will further reinforce our bilateral cooperation for the mutual benefit of our two peoples.

Please accept, Excellency, my warm wishes for your personal health and well-being, as well as for the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of South Africa”.

This Press Release issued at 1105 hrs.