1. Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State, extended warm Republic Day wishes to India.
2. He highlighted the enduring significance of the Indian Constitution for the world’s largest democracy.
3. Blinken acknowledged the consequential nature of the US-India relationship, echoing President Biden’s sentiments.
New Delhi, Jan 26: United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed warm wishes to India on its Republic Day, emphasizing the enduring significance of the Indian Constitution as the foundation for the world’s largest democracy and a pillar of its global leadership.
In an official statement, Blinken acknowledged the consequential nature of the relationship between the United States and India, echoing President Biden’s sentiment that this relationship holds immense importance globally.
He underscored the enduring framework provided by India’s Constitution, which has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s democratic principles.
The Secretary of State praised the milestones achieved in the Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership between the two nations over the past year.
He specifically commended India’s successful G20 presidency and expressed optimism about further strengthening the vibrant people-to-people ties between the countries.
Blinken emphasized the mutual commitment to advancing a robust agenda for cooperation on critical priorities. He extended his best wishes to the Indian people on the occasion of Republic Day, recognizing the special significance of the celebration.
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Earlier, during a press briefing, US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel also extended Republic Day wishes to India, highlighting the country’s status as a key strategic partner for the United States.
Patel stressed the collaborative efforts between the two nations, referencing Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to the US.
Meanwhile, India is gearing up for a monumental celebration of its Republic Day, marking the platinum jubilee of the country’s journey since independence.
The celebrations will showcase India’s military strength and cultural heritage at the ‘Kartavya Path’ in the national capital.
President Droupadi Murmu will lead the nation in the festivities, focusing on themes of Viksit Bharat, Aatmanirbhar military prowess, and the empowerment of Nari Shakti (women’s power).
French President Emmanuel Macron is set to be the Chief Guest for the parade.
A notable highlight of this year’s Republic Day parade is the participation of an all-women Tri-Service contingent. The event will also feature women pilots during the Indian Air Force’s fly-past, symbolizing the strength of women in the country.
The parade will encompass a display of India’s defence forces, featuring mechanized columns, state-of-the-art equipment, and cultural diversity.
The theme of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Bharat – Loktantra ki Matruka’ will be central to the parade, with around 13,000 special guests participating to encourage national unity and diversity.
The ceremony will commence with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying tributes at the National War Memorial, followed by the unfurling of the National Flag, the National Anthem, and a 21-gun salute.
President Murmu and President Macron will then witness the parade, marking a significant moment in India’s Republic Day celebrations.
