The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on the eve of the Independence Day of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (August 19, 2014).

In his message toHis Excellency Mr. Hamid Karzai, the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, 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 convey to you and to the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, our warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of your Independence Day.

Our traditional ties of friendship have gained strength and substance in the recent years. I am confident that our close cooperation will continue to contribute to the development and progress of Afghanistan and stability in the region. A strong, united and prosperous Afghanistan is in the interest of India.

Please accept, Excellency, my best wishes for Your Excellency’s good health and well-being and for the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Afghanistan”.

This Press Release issued at 1930 hrs.