New Delhi, Sep 22 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee has lauded "multifaceted strategic ties" with Saudi Arabia while greeting the king and people of Saudi Arabia on the eve of the National Day of the kingdom.

In his message to King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Mukherjee 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 Majesty and to the friendly people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the occasion of your National Day.

"Our traditionally friendly relations are based on vibrant people-to-people contacts that have developed over the centuries. Our multi-faceted strategic ties have witnessed steady progress in all spheres of our bilateral engagement. This mutually beneficial relationship has been further reinforced by regular high-level political exchanges and our growing bilateral trade. I remain confident that our cooperation will continue to further strengthen and diversify in the years to come.

"I take this opportunity to convey my best wishes for the good health and happiness of Your Majesty, as well as for the continued progress, well being and prosperity of the friendly people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," he said.