US President Donald Trump on Monday extended his wishes to India on its 77th Republic Day and said that New Delhi and Washington share a historic bond as the world’s oldest and largest democracies.
India is celebrating its 77th Republic Day on Monday, marking the day country’s Constitution came into force in 1950.
“On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of India as you celebrate your 77th Republic Day," the US President said as per the message shared by the US embassy in New Delhi.
“The United States and India share a historic bond as the world’s oldest and largest democracies," he added.
The US embassy also shared a photograph of PM Modi and Trump from the former’s state visit to Washington last year.
Earlier today, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also wished New Delhi on Republic Day and appreciated the Quad cooperation between the two countries on defence and other fronts.
“On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the people of India on your Republic Day," Rubio said.
“The United States and India share a historic bond. From our close cooperation on defense, energy, critical minerals, and emerging technologies to our multi-layered engagement through the Quad, the US-India relationship delivers real results for our two countries and for the Indo-Pacific region," he said, referring to the grouping of Australia, India, Japan and the US.
US ambassador to India Sergio Gor also greeted India after attending the Republic Day celebrations at the Kartavya Path.
“Happy Republic Day, India! Honored to attend the Republic Day Parade for the first time, a celebration of India’s Constitution and democratic spirit. Thrilled to see the US-made aircraft soaring in the Indian sky, a powerful symbol of the strength of the US-India strategic partnership," he said.
Trump’s greetings came at a time when the ties between the two countries have come under strain with Trump’s move to slap 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods, out of which 25 per cent is a penalty for New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil.
India has called US tariffs unjustified, maintaining that it would take all necessary steps to protect India’s interests and economic security.
However, Trump recently praised PM Modi in Davos. Calling PM Modi a close friend, Trump expressed confidence that India and the United States would reach a trade agreement.
“I have great respect for your Prime Minister. He’s a fantastic man and a friend of mine," Trump said. His remarks came as Washington and New Delhi continue high-stakes negotiations aimed at resolving a prolonged trade standoff marked by tariffs, geopolitical tensions and disputes over energy and agriculture.
