New Delhi, March 25 (IANS): President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday extended his greetings to the people and government of Bangladesh on the eve of their National Day, according to an official statement.

"On behalf of the government, the people of India and on my own behalf, it is with immense pleasure that I extend warm greetings and felicitations to Your Excellency and the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of your National Day," Mukherjee said in a message to Bangladesh President Md. Abdul Hamid.

Lauding the recent strides in the bilateral relationship between the two countries, Mukherjee said: "We have succeeded in enhancing and intensifying our co-operation in areas of our shared interest. I am confident that our joint efforts will contribute to the realisation of the aspirations of our respective peoples."

President Mukherjee also wished for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh declared its independence from Pakistan on March 26, 1971.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled for a state visit to India from April 7-10.