US Extends Republic Day Greetings to India, Highlights Democratic Ties Amid Trade Frictions

The United States marked India’s 77th Republic Day with a message that emphasized the deep historical and democratic connection between the two nations. President Donald Trump, in his congratulatory message, referred to the “historic bond” shared by the United States and India—two countries often described as the world’s oldest and largest democracies.

India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on Monday, commemorating the adoption of its Constitution on January 26, 1950—a milestone that laid the foundation for India’s democratic system and established it as the world’s largest democracy. In his message, President Trump said, “On behalf of the United States, I extend warm greetings to the Government and people of India on the occasion of your 77th Republic Day. As the world’s oldest and largest democracies, the United States and India share a historic bond.”

Adding to the message of goodwill, U.S. Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, also extended his congratulations and shared his personal experience of attending the Republic Day parade for the first time. He described it as an honor to witness the celebration of India’s Constitution and democratic spirit up close. Ambassador Gor highlighted the sight of American-made aircraft flying in Indian skies during the parade, calling it a powerful symbol of the growing strategic partnership between India and the United States.

“Warm wishes to India on Republic Day,” the Ambassador said. “It is an honor to attend the Republic Day parade for the first time and celebrate India’s Constitution and democratic ethos. Seeing U.S.-manufactured aircraft soaring over Indian skies is an exciting and meaningful reflection of the strength of the India–U.S. strategic partnership.”

Despite these positive gestures, the past year has seen fluctuations in India–U.S. relations. Tensions emerged primarily over tariffs imposed by President Trump on Indian imports, followed by repeated warnings of higher duties linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil. These moves introduced strain into an otherwise expanding partnership.

India responded firmly, describing the U.S. tariffs as unjustified and asserting its right to protect its national interests and economic security. In its first official reaction to the tariffs announced last August, New Delhi stated that the targeted measures were unfair and lacked economic logic. It emphasized that, like any major economy, India would take all necessary steps to safeguard its interests.

The exchange of Republic Day greetings, therefore, comes at a moment when India and the United States continue to balance strong democratic and strategic ties with ongoing disagreements over trade and economic policy.