India Turns 80: World Leaders Greet Nation; Iran Calls Ties a 'Valuable Asset'
India is celebrating its 80th Independence Day, with leaders and governments from around the world extending warm greetings. This year's milestone marks eight decades since India gained independence on August 15, 1947, and has drawn a broad spectrum of congratulatory messages from both close partners and friendly nations.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was among the first to convey his wishes. In a message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he described the deep historical, cultural, civilisational and people-to-people ties between the two countries as a "valuable asset" for further strengthening bilateral relations. "Undoubtedly, the deep historical, cultural, civilizational, and people-to-people ties between the two nations are a valuable asset for drawing brighter horizons in bilateral relations based on common interests," he said.
The Iranian President's official website noted his emphasis on expanding comprehensive relations with India. "The Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to take more effective steps to strengthen relations between the two countries and secure the common interests of the two nations, in light of mutual trust and respect and by utilising the extensive existing capacities," the statement added. He also prayed for India's pride, progress, prosperity and ever-increasing happiness, and for the long-standing relations between the two countries to strengthen and flourish.
Separately, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed gratitude to the Foreign Ministries of Uzbekistan, Guatemala and Peru for their Independence Day wishes. He acknowledged these greetings in a series of posts on X, reflecting India's wide-ranging diplomatic outreach.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in a letter, recalled the difficult path to India's independence, noting that through the sheer power of will, belief and determination, its dawning heralded a bright new beginning filled with hope. He extended his good wishes to the people of India on the occasion, remembering the struggle and sacrifices that led to the nation's freedom.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a message to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, said that India is making remarkable progress in economic, social, scientific and technological spheres and rightfully commands considerable authority in the international arena. His remarks acknowledged India's growing role on the global stage.
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed his country's commitment to deepening partnership with India and highlighted the enduring friendship between the two peoples. French President Emmanuel Macron also extended warm wishes to the people of India on the landmark occasion.
Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, addressing Prime Minister Modi as his "elder brother", expressed hope that the friendship and close bond between the two nations would continue to flourish. His message underlined the special and long-standing relationship between India and Bhutan.
The flood of greetings from leaders across the world reflects the depth and breadth of India's diplomatic relationships. As the nation marks 80 years of independence, these messages reaffirm a shared commitment to friendship, cooperation and a peaceful and prosperous region. The widespread goodwill highlights India's position as a key partner in regional and global affairs, with leaders reaffirming their intention to strengthen ties with New Delhi in the years ahead.
