The President of India, Pranab Mukherjee has congratulated new President Maithripala Sirisena on his assumption of office as the President of Sri Lanka.

In his message to President Sirisena, the President Mukherjee has said, "Please accept my congratulations and warm felicitations on your assumption of office as the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka."

"India and Sri Lanka as neighbors with civilizational ties sharing a common history, cultural heritage, interests and values, have long enjoyed a tradition of close friendship and cooperation," Indian President recalled.

"I am confident that in the coming years, both countries will continue to work together to further strengthen our bilateral relations to the mutual benefit of both our peoples," he said.

"Please accept, Excellency, my best wishes for the success of your endeavors for peace and development in Sri Lanka and for the progress and prosperity of its people."

Source: www.priu.gov.lk