The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and the people of the Republic of Palau on the eve of their Independence Day (October 1, 2015).

In his message to His Excellency Tommy E. Remengesau, Jr., the President of the Republic of Palau, the President has said, "On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, I extend sincere congratulations and warm felicitations to you and to the friendly people of the Republic of Palau on the occasion of your Independence Day. I wish you and the people of the Republic of Palau, continued success, well-being and prosperity.

Ties between our two countries are growing increasingly stronger, both in the context of bilateral relations as well as India's dialogue with Pacific Island countries under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation. We were extremely pleased to receive you in India for the FIPIC Summit in August this year. I firmly believe that in the near future, our joint initiatives in the areas of environment, agriculture, healthcare and IT will help create a solid foundation for the further development of this valued partnership.

Your championing of the environmental cause, in fighting the threat of climate change in the region deserves praise. India stands ready to assist Palau in capacity building and provide technical assistance.

Please accept, Your Excellency, my wishes for your personal well-being and good health and for the peace, progress and prosperity for your people”.

This Press Release issued at 1240 hrs.