President wishes Maldives on Republic Day eve

In a message to Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, the President of the Republic of Maldives, the President has said, “On behalf of the Government and the people of India, it gives me great pleasure to convey our warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency and to the friendly people of the Republic of Maldives on the occasion of your Republic Day."

"India and Maldives have traditionally enjoyed extremely close and friendly ties, anchored in shared historical and socio-cultural bonds," Mukherjee said.

"We both share a common strategic interest in the stability and security of the Indian Ocean Region," he said

"There is enormous potential for further expanding and diversifying our traditional ties of friendship and cooperation for fulfilling the aspirations of the people of our two countries," Mukherjee said.

He said: "Government of India attaches the highest importance to its time-tested relationship with Maldives and looks forward to working with your Government for the mutual benefit of our two nations."

The President said: "Please accept my best wishes for your personal well-being and for the progress and prosperity of the people of the Republic of Maldives.”