World leaders extend Independence Day wishes to India
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has extended wishes to the people of India on its 77th Independence Day. He stated that India and US have a "strong bond" as the two nations "work together for a world that is open, prosperous, secure, stable and resilient."
"On behalf of the United States of America, we send our warmest wishes to the people of India as they commemorate 76 years of independence this August 15. On this momentous day, we reflect on the depth and breadth of our strategic partnership, and we celebrate the proud history of the Indian people, who are the key to the bright future we are building together," he said in a statement.
Blinken further noted that the relationship between India and US -"the world’s oldest and largest democracies" - has grown "deeper" and it has become "more expansive than ever."
"On behalf of the American people, I extend to the people of India best wishes on this important day. We stand with you in our shared commitment to tackling the most pressing global challenges to ensure the peace and prosperity of our peoples," he added.
Singapore High Commissioner Simon Wong also wished "dearest friends" India on the 77th Independence Day, calling the country a "fastest-growing major economy."
Other world leaders to wish India included French President Emmanuel Macron, the Prime Minister of Nepal and Prime Minister of Bhutan, Dr. Lotay Tshering, among others.
Meanwhile, in New Delhi, with the nation echoing with zeal and enthusiasm on the occasion of the 77th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the tricolour at Red Fort. His address to the nation also highlighted the country's development. The PM said that decisions taken by the country today and the work done will impact its future for a thousand years.
Various iconic buildings and monuments in the national capital have been illuminated in the tricolour lights on Independence Day. Old Delhi Railway Station, New Delhi Railway Station and India Gate were light-up as the city soaks in Independence Day fervour.
This year’s Independence Day culminates the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, which were launched by PM Modi from Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on March 12, 2021, and will continue to usher the country into ‘Amrit Kaal’ with renewed vigour to realise PM Modi’s dream of making India a developed country by 2047.
(ANI)