Independence Day 2024: World Extends I-Day Wishes to India

New Delhi: India on Thursday, August 15, marked the 78th Independence Day, and as a part of the annual tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and delivered his 11th consecutive address to the nation at the iconic Red Fort.

Following this, congratulations poured in from around the world, with leaders extending wishes to the people of India and looking to strengthen diplomatic ties with the country.

Here are the world leaders who joined India in its 78th Independence Day celebrations by sending their best wishes:

Nepal: KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal

"Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji and the people of India on 78th Independence Day! May this day strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations. Looking forward to advancing Nepal-India relations. #IndependenceDayIndia," he said on X.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu

"On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President @rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister @narendramodi, and the people of India. Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the region. As we look to the future, I am confident that our partnership will continue to strengthen, driving mutual prosperity and shared goals," Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu posted on X.

Maldivian Democratic Party President Abdullah Shahid

Former Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdullah Shahid wrote in a post X said, "Happy Independence Day India! I wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi, EAM Dr S Jaishankar, the Government and the warm and friendly people of India best wishes and prosperity on this joyous occasion.  India has proved to be an “all-weather” friend of the Maldives. Our first and best responder for any crisis we have faced. An invaluable partner in our development journey. The people of Maldives continue to benefit from the generous development assistance and human resource development, and deeply cherish this relationship."

French President Emmanuel Macron

"Congratulations to the Indian people on your 78th Independence Day! I remember your warm welcome during my visit to India in January and look forward to working with my friend @NarendraModi on achieving the ambitious goals we have set for our strategic partnership," Macron wrote on X.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken

"On this significant occasion, we honor the vibrant and diverse history of the Indian people and look forward to the promising future of U.S.-Indian relations. Our broad global and strategic partnership is anchored in the strong connections between our peoples and economies, and is built upon our mutual dedication to democracy, freedom, and human dignity," said Antony Blinken in a statement.