The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the Republic of Korea on the eve of their National Day(August 15, 2015).

In his message to Her Excellency Madame Park Geun-hye, the President of the Republic of Korea, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, I extend to you and to the Government and the people of the Republic of Korea, warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of your National Day.

India cherishes its traditional ties of friendship with the Republic of Korea. Our ancient civilizational links have been substantively enhanced in contemporary times. It is a matter of satisfaction that the bilateral relationship between India and the Republic of Korea has been upgraded to a 'Special Strategic Partnership' during the successful visit of the Prime Minister of India to Seoul earlier this year. I am confident that our partnership will expand and diversify further in strategic areas of our mutual complementarities and convergences to the benefit of our peoples.

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

This Press Release issued at 1750 hrs.