India-Bhutan ties have stood test of time: President Pranab Mukherjee

NEW DELHI: President Pranab Mukherjee today said bilateral relations between India and Bhutan have "stood the test of time" as he wished the country on the eve of its National Day tomorrow.

In his message to the King of Bhutan Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the President said "on behalf of the government and the people of India and on my own behalf, it gives me immense pleasure to convey to your Majesty, the esteemed members of the Royal family and the people of Bhutan warm greetings and felicitations on the occasion of your National Day."

"Our exemplary bilateral relations, based on deep mutual trust and understanding, have stood the test of time. Over the years, our close bonds have strengthened and our wide ranging cooperation has diversified in all areas of our shared interest.

"Our enduring friendship owes a great deal to the wisdom of successive Druk Gyalpos. We cherish your Majesty's personal commitment to our unique and special relationship," Mukherjee was quoted as saying in a Rashtrapati Bhavan statement.

"I take this opportunity to convey to your Majesty and to the esteemed members of the Royal family, my best wishes for your well-being and happiness and also my best wishes for the continued progress and prosperity of the Kingdom of Bhutan," he said.