The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the Syrian Arab Republic on the eve of their National Day. (17.04.2017).

In a message to His Excellency Dr. Bashar Al-Assad, President of the Syrian Arab Republic, the President has said, "It gives me great pleasure to extend greetings and felicitations to you and to the friendly people of the Syrian Arab Republic on the occasion of your National Day.

India and Syria have traditionally enjoyed warm and cordial relations. The tragic loss of human lives and violence during the many years of conflict that have devastated Syria have greatly saddened us in India. We look forward to the success of the recently re-launched political process in achieving a comprehensive political solution through a Syrian-led, all inclusive effort, taking into consideration the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people. We welcome all initiatives in this direction and remain hopeful of an early solution to the crisis in Syria.

It is a matter of satisfaction that India and Syria have had fruitful high level exchanges - whose outcomes we hope to consolidate.

I convey my best wishes for your health and well-being and for peace and prosperity in Syria”.