India, Egypt share similar socio-economic challenges: President Mukherjee

Extending his greetings and felicitations to the government and people of Egypt on the eve of their National Day, President Pranab Mukherjee on Friday said both nations share similar socio-economic challenges, which necessitate our close cooperation and collaboration for mutual benefit.

In a message to his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, President Mukherjee said, "On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, it is with immense pleasure that I extend warm greetings and felicitations to you and to the friendly people of Egypt on the occasion of your National Day."

"It is a matter of satisfaction that our two countries share historically warm and traditionally friendly ties. We are happy to see the successful completion of the political roadmap envisaged by Your Excellency with the Egyptian Parliament assuming their responsibilities," he added.

President Mukherjee further said India views Egypt as an important partner in the Arab world and valued the country's participation and contribution in the India Africa Forum Summit - III held last year in New Delhi.

"We remain confident that the Egyptian Government and its people will benefit from your vision for the country and implement the reforms agenda which you have set," he added.

President Mukherjee expressed his to note that both countries have been cooperating closely in multilateral fora.

"I take this opportunity to extend to Your Excellency my best wishes for your good health and for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Egypt," he added.