President congratulates Qatar's Emir

New Delhi, June 24 (IANS) President Pranab Mukherjee Tuesday congratulated Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on the first anniversary of his accession as the Emir of Qatar.

"On behalf of the government and the people of India and on my own behalf, I extend warm greetings and congratulations to Your Highness and the people of the State of Qatar," Mukherjee said in a message.

Mukherjee said historical and friendly relations between India and Qatar are deeply rooted in cultural, religious and economic ties, characterised by extensive people-to-people contacts.

"I am confident that our multifaceted engagement in different fields would further deepen and strengthen our ongoing cooperation for the mutual benefit of both our peoples," Mukherjee said.

Sheikh Tamim became the 8th emir of Qatar on June 25, 2013 after his father, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al Thani, abdicated.