The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the Republic of Iraq on the eve of their National Day(July 14, 2015).

In his message to His Excellency Mr. Fuad Masum, the President of the Republic of Iraq, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, it is with immense pleasure that I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency and to the friendly people of Iraq on the occasion of your National Day.

India deeply values its close and friendly relations with the Republic of Iraq, which are rooted in ancient trade and cultural links and people-to-people contacts. We are confident that with the strong commitment of both our great nations, these ties will be further strengthened as we broaden our bilateral cooperation for the mutual benefit of the people of our two countries.

India strongly supports the Iraqi people and Government in their efforts to overcome the current crisis, uphold national sovereignty and preserve their territorial integrity.

Please accept, Your Excellency, my best wishes for your good health and well-being, and for the continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of the Republic of Iraq.”

This Press Release issued at 1155 hrs.