President wishes Vietnam on the eve of its National Day

New Delhi: Terming Vietnam as a "trusted friend", President Pranab Mukherjee today extended his felicitations to the government and people of the Socialist Republic on the eve of its National Day.

In his message to the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Truong Tan Sang, Mukherjee said, "India and Vietnam share a long tradition of close relations. India attaches great value to this friendship and considers Vietnam a trusted friend."

Mukherjee, who will be visiting the South Asian country from September 14-17, said he was greatly honoured to receive the invitation to visit Vietnam, one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

"I look forward to being there in a few weeks and to working closely with you to further strengthen our partnership, mutual trust and cooperation," he said.

"On behalf of the government and people of India and on my own behalf, I have great pleasure in extending warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency and to the government and people of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on the occasion of the 69th Anniversary of your National Day," the President said in the message.

"I take this opportunity to convey my best wishes for your good health and well-being, as well as for the peace, progress and prosperity of the friendly people of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam," he said.