The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has greeted the people and government of South Sudan on the occasion of the declaration of the country's independence. In a letter to President General Salva Kiir Mayardit of South Sudan the Prime Minister applauded the new nation's commitment to addressing all outstanding issues with North Sudan in an amicable and peaceful manner.

The text of the Prime Minister's letter is as follows:

"I have received your gracious letter sent through Her Excellency Dr. Priscilla Joseph Kuch, Minister in your office, inviting me to attend the historic celebrations scheduled on July 9, 2011 in Juba when South Sudan will formally proclaim its independence.

On behalf of the people and Government of India, I convey my warmest felicitations and greetings to the people and Government of Southern Sudan on this momentous and happy occasion. It marks the successful conclusion of important landmarks spelt out in the

Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2005, including, in particular, the peaceful conduct of the referendum.

I take this opportunity to convey India's best wishes to Your Excellency and the people of Southern Sudan as you embark on a new journey of nation building and development and greater peace and prosperity in the region. We applaud your commitment to addressing all outstanding issues with North Sudan in an amicable and peaceful manner.

I have been apprised of the comprehensive discussions held in April this year between Her Excellency Dr. Priscilla Kuch and my colleague Mr. S.M. Krishna, Minister of External Affairs, on important issues of mutual interest. The Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr. E. Ahamed led a multi-disciplinary delegation to Juba on June 15, 2011 to reiterate India's support and solidarity with the people of Southern Sudan. India stands ready to share its development experience and extend whatever assistance possible to Southern Sudan. I am confident that our cooperation will grow from strength to strength in the coming days for the mutual benefit of our two peoples.

My prior commitments do not permit me to attend the historic celebrations in Juba. I wish to assure you that India will be represented at the event at a high level.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration."