Prez extends greetings to USA on eve of their 239th Independence Day

President Pranab Mukherjee on Friday extended greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of the United States of America on the eve of their 239th Independence Day.

"On behalf of the Government, the people of India and on my own behalf, it gives me great pleasure to extend warm greetings and felicitations to you and, through you to the Government and people of the United States of America on the occasion of your 239th Independence Day," President said in message to his American counterpart Barack Obama.

He also said that the shared values of democracy, pluralism and rule of law underwrite the India-U.S. Strategic Partnership.

"Your presence as the Chief Guest at India's Republic Day in January this year reflected the strength of our friendship and mutual commitment. Our comprehensive engagement for cooperation across the entire spectrum of human endeavour, contributes to economic growth and development in both our countries and also serves global peace and prosperity. Please accept, Excellency, my best wishes for your good health and success and for the continued peace and prosperity of the people of the United States," he added.