Prime Minister Narendra Modi received birthday greetings from political leaders in India and abroad on Thursday, as messages of goodwill poured in on his 70th birthday.
Leaders from across the political spectrum and several foreign governments conveyed their wishes to the prime minister, highlighting his role in India’s political and diplomatic landscape.
Bhutan PM Hails Close India-Bhutan Ties
Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering was among the foreign leaders who greeted Modi on the occasion. In a message posted on Twitter, Tshering conveyed the “prayers” of the people and government of Bhutan for Modi’s success and well-being on his birthday.
Tshering also expressed confidence that India would continue to achieve greater transformation under Modi’s leadership. His message underlined the close relationship between India and Bhutan and the importance both countries place on maintaining strong ties.
Responding to the Bhutanese prime minister, Modi thanked Tshering for his warm wishes and prayers. He said India and Bhutan “cherish” their friendship, describing the relationship between New Delhi and Thimphu as a “shining example of mutual trust and cooperation between neighbours.”
Putin, Oli, Sanna Marin Extend Greetings
Greetings also came from several other foreign leaders. Russian President Vladimir Putin, Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin were among those who extended birthday wishes to Modi.
The messages reflected the broad international outreach surrounding the Indian prime minister’s birthday. India maintains diplomatic, economic and strategic relations with countries across different regions, with ties with neighbouring nations remaining an important part of its foreign policy engagement.
Kovind, Leaders Across Parties Greet Modi
In India, President Ram Nath Kovind was among the first leaders to extend birthday greetings to Modi. Leaders from different political parties also conveyed their wishes, adding to the messages received by the prime minister throughout the day.
The birthday greetings came through various platforms, including social media, where political leaders and public figures shared messages celebrating the occasion. Modi’s 70th birthday therefore saw greetings from both domestic and international leaders, with messages focusing on his public service, well-being and India’s future.
The exchange between Modi and Tshering also brought attention to the longstanding friendship between India and Bhutan, one of New Delhi’s closest neighbouring relationships.