India’s 77th Republic Day was marked on Monday, January 26, 2026, with a wide range of greetings from global leaders and prominent international figures, reflecting the country’s growing diplomatic influence and expanding partnerships across regions. Messages from political leaders, senior officials, and business figures highlighted shared democratic values, strategic cooperation, and the importance of dialogue in an increasingly complex global environment.
The Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi featured the presence of senior European Union leaders, reinforcing the depth of engagement between India and Europe. International responses to the occasion underlined India’s evolving role as a key global partner, with leaders acknowledging its constitutional foundations, economic growth, and contributions to regional and global stability.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on the eve of the Republic Day that India and Europe are strengthening what she described as mutual resilience through sustained dialogue and partnership. Expressing satisfaction at being in India for the celebrations, she noted that both sides have made a clear choice in favour of strategic cooperation, openness, and democratic engagement. She added that India–Europe cooperation demonstrates that constructive partnerships remain possible even in a fractured global landscape, highlighting the importance of collaboration between like-minded partners.
Marco Rubio, United States Secretary of State
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended greetings to India on behalf of the American people, stating that cooperation between India and the United States continues to deliver tangible outcomes across defence, energy, and emerging technologies. He highlighted the historic bond shared by the two democracies and pointed to the role of the Quad framework in strengthening stability across the Indo-Pacific region. Rubio said he looked forward to working closely with India in advancing shared objectives in the year ahead, underscoring the importance of continued strategic engagement.
In addition to Rubio’s message, the US Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs also conveyed its greetings, acknowledging India’s adoption of its Constitution and reaffirming recognition of India’s democratic institutions and its role as a key regional partner.
Xi Jinping, President of China
Chinese President Xi Jinping sent Republic Day greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, describing India and China as good neighbours, friends, and partners. According to official accounts, he emphasised the importance of enhancing cooperation and maintaining stable bilateral relations. His message highlighted the need for dialogue between the two major Asian nations amid evolving regional and global challenges, reflecting an emphasis on stability and engagement.
Bill Gates, Microsoft Co-founder
Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates conveyed his Republic Day greetings through a video message, reflecting on India’s constitutional promise to expand opportunity and empower its citizens through knowledge and innovation. He noted that Indian innovation is increasingly delivering solutions at scale, benefiting not only India but also countries across the global South. Gates also expressed anticipation about attending the upcoming India AI Impact Summit, where his foundation plans to outline partnerships and commitments aimed at fostering an inclusive future for artificial intelligence.
France also joined in extending greetings, with the French Embassy in India recalling the strong bilateral relationship and France’s participation as Chief Guest during earlier Republic Day celebrations. The embassy conveyed warm wishes to the Indian people and reiterated France’s commitment to working closely with India and European partners to promote peace, stability, and prosperity through cooperative efforts.
Taken together, the messages received on India’s 77th Republic Day highlighted the country’s expanding diplomatic footprint and its growing influence on the global stage. From constitutional democracy and strategic partnerships to technological cooperation and regional stability, the greetings reflected broad international recognition of India as a key global partner and an influential voice in shaping international outcomes.
