New Delhi, Dec 17 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee said Wednesday India looked forward to "strengthening and deepening" its ties with Qatar as he wished the country on the eve of its National Day.

In his message to Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, Mukherjee said: "India greatly values its close and time-tested relations with Qatar which are deeply rooted in history. We look forward to further strengthening and deepening our multifaceted ties for the mutual benefit of our two countries."

"On behalf of the government and the people of India and on my own behalf, it gives me great pleasure to extend warm greetings and felicitations to you and to the friendly people of Qatar on the occasion of your National Day," the president said.

"I take this opportunity to convey to Your Highness my best wishes for your personal good health and well-being, as also for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of the State of Qatar," a statement from the Rashtrapati Bhavan said.