New Delhi, April 30 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday greeted the government and people of Marshall Islands -- a Pacific Ocean country of 68,000 people -- on the eve of its Constitution Day.

In a message to Christopher Jorebon Loeak, president of the Marshall Islands, Mukherjee extended "warm greetings and felicitations" to him and the government and people of the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

"As the world's largest democracy, India recognizes the spirit of democracy, freedom and dignity of individuals enshrined in your constitution. We also share your county's aspirations for peace and prosperity and relations based on mutual understanding," he said.

Spread over 24 low-lying coral atolls, Marshall Islands is an island nation near the equator in the Pacific Ocean. It takes its name from British explorer John Marshall and has close ties with the US.

Mukherjee said India recently welcomed the first ambassador of the Marshall Islands.

"We look forward to working with you and your government to further strengthen our bilateral relations based on mutual trust and friendship," he added.