Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening its relationships with countries across different regions after receiving congratulatory messages from several world leaders marking his completion of 25 years as head of government.
Leaders from Nigeria, Dominica, Belgium, the Philippines, Bhutan and Botswana extended their greetings to Modi. In his responses, the Prime Minister emphasized India’s longstanding friendships and strategic partnerships while expressing an interest in expanding cooperation with each country.
Responding to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Modi described India and Nigeria as close partners and important voices representing the Global South. He said India remains committed to advancing the two countries’ Strategic Partnership and working together toward a more inclusive, peaceful and prosperous international environment.
Modi also thanked the leaders of Dominica and Belgium for their messages. He reiterated India’s interest in building on existing bilateral relationships and creating further opportunities for cooperation between the countries.
In his response to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Modi highlighted the importance India places on its Strategic Partnership with the Philippines. He expressed confidence that the relationship between the two countries can continue to develop through stronger friendship and closer engagement.
The Prime Minister also underscored the special nature of India’s relationship with Bhutan in his message to Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. He described the partnership as being built on mutual trust and understanding, reflecting the close ties between the two neighboring countries.
Responding to Botswana President Duma Boko, Modi expressed appreciation for the congratulatory message and said India attaches significant value to its friendship with Botswana.
The exchange of messages comes as Modi marks 25 years as a head of government, a milestone spanning his tenure as Gujarat chief minister and his subsequent years as India’s prime minister. The responses also highlight the breadth of India’s diplomatic engagement, covering partnerships across Africa, Europe, Southeast Asia and its neighboring region.
By emphasizing continued cooperation with each country, Modi’s messages underline India’s focus on maintaining established partnerships while seeking opportunities to deepen bilateral and strategic ties. The outreach also reflects India’s broader engagement with countries across the Global South and other international partners.
