Prez Mukherjee extends greeting on eve of South Africa's Freedom Day

President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday extended his greetings and felicitations to the Government and people of South Africa on the eve of the country's Freedom Day.

"On behalf of the Government and the people of India and on my own behalf, it gives me great pleasure to extend to the friendly people of South Africa warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of the Freedom Day of South Africa," President Mukherjee said in his message to his South African counterpart. Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma.

He said the relationship between India and South Africa is deeply rooted in history, and over the years, has evolved into a strategic partnership, characterized by multi-faceted engagement covering a range of activities in the political, economic and cultural fields.

"Our co-operation under the IBSA and the BRICS forum adds even greater value and substance to our engagement. I am confident that in the coming years, we will further reinforce our bilateral cooperation for the mutual benefit of our two peoples," President Mukherjee added.

"Please accept, Excellency, my warm wishes for your personal health and well-being, as well as for the progress and prosperity of the friendly people of South Africa," he added.