President Pranab Mukherjee congratulates Manmohan Singh for Japanese award

President Pranab Mukherjee today congratulated former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for being selected for one of Japan's top awards and said it was an important recognition of immense service rendered by him for promotion of India-Japan relations and friendship.

In his message to Singh, Mukherjee said, "I am extremely happy to know that the Government of Japan has conferred one of its highest civilian honours - 'The Grand Cordon of the Order of the Paulownia Flowers' upon you, making you the first Indian ever to receive this award."

He said, "This important recognition is testimony to the immense service rendered by you over the years for the promotion of India-Japan relations and friendship."

Extending his hearty congratulations and best wishes, the President said, "I am sure the entire nation will rejoice at this much deserved honour conferred on you."