Global Leaders Extend Warm Wishes to India on Its 80th Independence Day

On August 15, 2026, India marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its 80th Independence Day, receiving heartfelt messages of congratulations from leaders around the globe. Nations such as France, Russia, and Australia took this opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to fostering strong bilateral ties with India.

French President Emmanuel Macron shared his greetings via social media, congratulating the people of India on this momentous occasion. Similarly, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his best wishes to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing the importance of the strategic partnership between Russia and India. He highlighted the ongoing cooperation in various sectors and the collaborative efforts within international organizations like the United Nations and BRICS.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also recognized India's achievements over the past eight decades, stating that the country has emerged as the world's largest democracy and a rapidly growing economy. He recalled Prime Minister Modi's recent visit to Australia and reiterated the significance of their relationship, expressing excitement about further collaborations supported by the Indian diaspora in Australia.

The Maldives' President Mohamed Muizzu echoed similar sentiments, celebrating eight decades of Indian independence and reaffirming the Maldives' commitment to strengthening their partnership, which is founded on mutual respect and shared prosperity. Israeli President Isaac Herzog added his warm wishes, hoping for the continued strengthening of the friendship between Israel and India.

Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam conveyed his congratulations to President Murmu, emphasizing the enduring partnership between Singapore and India. He highlighted the countries' mutual interests in regional integration, energy security, and trade, and expressed confidence in discovering new opportunities together.

Leaders from neighboring countries, including Nepal's Prime Minister Balendra Shah and Bhutan's Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, also sent warm wishes to India. Shah expressed a desire for continued strengthening of ties, while Tobgay referred to India as an elder brother, wishing for the flourishing of their close relationship.

In a broader context, former Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih commended India's journey since 1947 as a source of inspiration for developing nations like the Maldives. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged the strong ties between the U.S. and India, attributing their deepening relationship to the personal rapport between the respective leaders.

Source: www.thehindu.com