India’s 80th Independence Day drew messages from major powers and neighbours, with leaders highlighting strategic ties, economic cooperation and New Delhi’s growing global role.

India’s 80th Independence Day on Saturday brought greetings from major global powers, strategic partners and neighbouring countries, with governments highlighting their expanding ties with New Delhi across defence, trade, technology and regional security.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the National Flag at the Red Fort in New Delhi and addressed the nation as India marked eight decades of independence. The celebrations also drew diplomatic messages from Washington, Moscow, Paris, London and several countries across Asia and the Middle East.

The messages reflected India’s expanding role in global affairs and the growing importance of its partnerships across multiple regions.

US Highlights Strategic Partnership

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio conveyed Washington’s greetings to India and highlighted the strength of the bilateral relationship.

Rubio pointed to longstanding people-to-people connections and the relationship between US President Donald Trump and Modi as important elements of the partnership.

India and the US have expanded cooperation in defence, technology, trade, energy and the Indo-Pacific, making Washington one of New Delhi’s key strategic partners.

Putin Reaffirms India Ties

Russian President Vladimir Putin also sent greetings to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi.

Putin described India-Russia relations as a “particularly privileged strategic partnership” and pointed to cooperation across several sectors.

He also highlighted coordination between Moscow and New Delhi through multilateral platforms including the United Nations, BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation.

The message came as both countries continue to maintain close political, defence and economic engagement despite major changes in the global geopolitical environment.

France And UK Extend Wishes

French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated India and its people on Independence Day, reinforcing the importance of the France-India strategic partnership.

The UK also conveyed Independence Day greetings to Indians in Britain, India and around the world.

India and France have strengthened cooperation in defence, space, clean energy and advanced technology, while New Delhi and London continue negotiations and engagement on trade, investment and strategic issues.

Australia Backs Deeper Engagement

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described India as the world’s largest democracy and a rapidly growing major economy.

He praised India’s achievements over the past eight decades and called for further expansion of Australia-India engagement.

The two countries have increased cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, critical minerals, education, trade, clean energy and defence.

Australia has also become an important partner for India through the Quad, alongside the US and Japan.

Iran Stresses Civilisational Links

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also extended greetings to Modi and the Indian people.

Pezeshkian referred to the historical, cultural and civilisational links between India and Iran, describing them as a foundation for closer bilateral relations.

The message assumes significance as India maintains engagement with Iran on connectivity, energy and regional issues while balancing relationships with other major powers.

Neighbours Reaffirm Strong Ties

India’s immediate neighbourhood also featured prominently in the Independence Day messages.

Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah and Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay highlighted their longstanding relations with New Delhi.

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, while Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam stressed the shared interest of Singapore and India in a peaceful, open and connected region.

Singapore also highlighted cooperation in trade, the digital economy and energy security.

India’s Global Role Expands

Israel, Egypt, Armenia and other countries also conveyed greetings, underlining the breadth of India’s diplomatic engagement.

The messages came at a time when New Delhi is seeking deeper partnerships across the Indo-Pacific, Europe, West Asia and the Global South.

For India, the diplomatic outreach surrounding its 80th Independence Day reflects more than ceremonial goodwill. It also highlights how major powers and neighbouring countries increasingly view New Delhi as an important partner on security, technology, trade, connectivity and global governance.