Pranab Mukherjee greets Philippines President Benigno S Aquino III on Independence day

NEW DELHI: President Pranab Mukherjee today congratulated his Philippines counterpart Benigno S Aquino III on the eve of their Independence day and expressed hope that bilateral relations between India and Philippines will strengthen in future.

In his message to Aquino III, Mukherjee extended his greetings and felicitations on the eve of the 117th Anniversary of the Declaration of the Independence of the Philippines which will be celebrated tomorrow.

"India is delighted that the Philippines is a key partner in our 'Act East' Policy. Our close cooperation in economic, defence-security and cultural platforms reflects our mutual trust and understanding.

"I look forward to working closely with you and am confident that our bilateral partnership will be further strengthened in the years ahead," he said.