The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of Republic of Korea on the occasion of the National Day of Republic of Korea (August 15, 2014).

In his message to the President of Republic of Korea, Her Excellency Madame Park Geun-hye, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government and 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.

Your successful visit to India in January this year provided a strong impetus to the further strengthening and diversification of our Strategic Partnership – which is based on shared values and our common commitment to democracy, rule of law, respect for individual rights and freedom of expression. The Bodhi Tree sapling from Bodh Gaya which is now in the Republic of Korea will add yet another dimension to our shared heritage and close people-to-people linkages.We are encouraged by the growing trade and investment between our two countries and are confident that these will create new opportunities for our mutually beneficial cooperation.

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

This Press Release issued at 1540 hrs.