“World’s Oldest and Largest Democracies”: Trump on India–US Ties
New Delhi: US President Donald Trump on Monday underlined the “historic bond” between the United States and India, calling them the world’s oldest and largest democracies, as he extended greetings to India on the occasion of its 77th Republic Day.
In a message to the people of India, Trump said, “On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of India as you celebrate your 77th Republic Day.” He added that the democratic partnership between the two nations continues to be a defining pillar of their relationship.
The greetings came at a time when bilateral ties are facing pressure over issues such as trade and tariff policies, even as both sides seek to deepen strategic cooperation.
“On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of India as you celebrate your 77th Republic Day. The United States and India share a historic bond as the world’s oldest and largest democracies.” – President… pic.twitter.com/oC9x3Qs9y3
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) January 26, 2026
Earlier in the day, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor also conveyed his wishes and said he was honoured to attend the Republic Day Parade for the first time. Highlighting the growing defence partnership, he described the presence of US-made aircraft in the parade as a strong symbol of the expanding US–India strategic alliance.
In a post on X, Gor wrote: “Happy Republic Day, India! Honoured to attend the Republic Day Parade for the first time, a celebration of India’s Constitution and democratic spirit. Thrilled to see the US-made aircraft soaring in the Indian sky, a powerful symbol of the strength of the US–India strategic partnership.”
The messages reflect the continued emphasis on democratic values and strategic ties that underpin the India–US relationship, even amid ongoing policy differences.
