Republic Day 2025: US' Marco Rubio Congratulates India, Says 'India-US Have Defining Partnership'

Republic Day 2025: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended his greetings to India on its 76th Republic Day, highlighting the growing partnership between the US and India. He remarked, "It will be a defining relationship of the 21st century." As India marks 75 years as a Republic, it plans to display its military prowess and rich cultural heritage during an annual parade on Sunday at Kartavya Path in New Delhi.

"On behalf of the United States of America, I congratulate the people of India as they celebrate their nation's Republic Day. As they commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India, we join them in recognizing its enduring significance as the foundation of the world's largest democracy," Rubio said.

Strengthening Ties with India

Rubio emphasized that the US-India partnership is continuously reaching new heights. He believes this relationship will be pivotal in shaping the 21st century. "The enduring friendship between our two peoples is the bedrock of our cooperation and propels us forward as we realise the tremendous potential of our economic relationship," he stated.

The Secretary of State expressed eagerness to enhance collaboration in various fields. He mentioned advancing joint efforts in space research and working within the Quad framework to ensure a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

First Bilateral Meeting with Jaishankar

Earlier, Rubio had his first bilateral meeting with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday. This marked his initial engagement with any country after assuming office. Additionally, he participated in the inaugural Quad ministerial meeting under the new Trump administration alongside representatives from India, Japan, and Australia.

The meeting underscored how much importance the Trump administration places on strengthening ties with India. Rubio conveyed to Jaishankar that the US aims to boost economic relations with India while addressing concerns about irregular migration.

In a post on X following their discussion, Jaishankar expressed his pleasure at meeting Rubio for his first bilateral engagement since becoming Secretary of State.