Maldivian President, neighbourhood leaders wish India on Republic Day

Wishing India, Oli wrote on X: "On the occasion of 76th #RepublicDay of India, I extend my warmest congratulations to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi and the people of India. May the ideals of democracy and national unity flourish evermore, fostering deeper ties of friendship between our two nations."

In his message, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu said  his nation will always cherish the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation we share with India.

"On the joyous occasion of the Republic Day of #India, I convey my heartfelt greetings and best wishes to President @rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister@narendramodi, the Government and people of India," he said.

The relationship between India and Maldives touched low points last year after Modi visited Lakshadweep to promote tourism, a possible rival in the sector with the archipelago.

Muizzu had come to power in Maldives by rising on his  aggressive 'India Out' campaign.

After coming to power, he had even directed  India to withdraw its military personnel from the three platforms in the Maldives.

India withdrew around 90 troops from the country by May 10.

However, ties improved in the later half of 2024 when Muizzu even visited India and in his latest Republic Day message, the Madiviain leader wrote: "I am committed to strengthening our strategic partnership to address common challenges and work for the mutual benefit of people of both our neighborly nations."

Bhutan's PM  Tshering Tobgay wished Modi and wrote on X: "On behalf of the people of Bhutan, I wish the Government and people of India a joyous 76th Republic Day. May the spirit of unity and the vision that shaped your republic continue to drive remarkable achievements and inspire the world."

Indian President Droupadi Murmu led the nation in celebrating the 76th Republic Day at the Kartavya Path in New Delhi on Sunday.

With a special focus on 75 years of enactment of the Constitution and Jan Bhagidari, this year's celebrations blend India’s rich cultural diversity, unity, equality, development, and military prowess.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is the Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations this year.

Around 10,000 guests witnessed the 90-minute parade, which is in line with the government’s objective to increase ‘Jan Bhagidari’ in events of national importance.

This was the first Republic Day celebrated by India since the new regime of President Donald Trump took charge on January 20.