President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has sent a message of congratulations to the Government and people of the Republic of India on the occasion marking the 68^th Anniversary of Republic Day on January 26.

India became independent of the United Kingdom on August 15, 1947. India did not have a permanent constitution at this time. The national assembly signed the final English and Hindi language versions of the constitution on January 24, 1950.

India's constitution came into effect on Republic Day, January 26, 1950. This date was chosen as it was the anniversary of Purna Swaraj Day, which was held on January 26, 1930.The constitution gave India's citizens the power to govern themselves by choosing their own government. Dr. Rajendra Prasad took oath as India's first president at the Durbar Hall in the Government House, followed by a residential drive along a route to the Irwin Stadium, where he unfurled India's national flag. Ever since the historic day, January 26 is celebrated with festivities and patriotic fervor across India.

According to a Foreign Ministry release, in her message to the President of the Republic of India, His Excellency Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, President Sirleaf, on behalf of the Government and people of Liberia and in her own name, extended warmest congratulations and best wishes on the occasion of the 68^th Anniversary of the Republic Day of that great country.

“As you commemorate this joyous occasion, I recall the excellent bilateral relations subsisting between our two countries, and envision a future of deeper cooperation and friendship for the mutual benefit of our peoples,” the Liberian leader stressed.

She acknowledged with appreciation the strong partnership between both countries and informed President Mukherjee about his country’s assistance particularly, in Liberia’s human capacity development as they both work together in furtherance of peace, security and global economic development within the context of the sustainable development goals.

President Sirleaf prayed for his personal wellbeing, abundant wisdom and strength as he leads his compatriots to greater prosperity.