"It gives me great pleasure to send Your Excellency my warmest congratulations as the Republic of India celebrates its National Day.

I wish you good health and happiness, and your people further progress and prosperity," wrote the sovereign in this message. "I should like to take this opportunity to say how much I value the special relations rooted in friendship and cooperation between our countries.

I keenly look forward to continuing to work with Your Excellency and the Government of India to expand and deepen Moroccan-Indian relations in all sectors, thus fulfilling our peoples' aspirations and serving their shared interests," the royal message added.