Several key world leaders greet India and PM Modi on its I-day

A host of key world leaders on Thursday wished Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian citizens on the country's Independence Day with Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu greeting them with a "namaste" in a video and hailing the deepening ties between the two countries. "The relations between India and Israel are like never before. It's not merely cooperation, it's genuine friendship," said Netanyahu in a short video, posted to mark the occasion.

Responding to the greetings, Modi said, "My friend Bibi, as always, your wishes have touched all Indians. May India and Israel become even closer friends in the years to come." Netanyahu is affectionately called Bibi.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wished Modi on Twitter, saying his country joins the people of India and the Indo-Canadian community in celebrating the 73rd Independence Day. "Thank you for the Independence Day greetings, PM @JustinTrudeau. I hope relations between India and Canada continue getting stronger and our cooperation increases in multiple sectors," Modi responded.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also wished Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind on the occasion. "I thank President Putin for his Independence Day greetings. India has always valued Russia's friendship and I am sure ties between our nations will be further cemented in the times to come," the prime minister wrote on Twitter.

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering were among the first leaders to congratulate Prime Minister Modi. "India is our neighbour and close friend and we shall continue working with the Indian government to further strengthen the ties between Maldives and India," Solih said in a tweet.

Modi thanked him, saying India cherishes the strong friendship between the two nations. Nepal's Oli said his country is delighted to see India's rapid economic growth achieved over the past seven decades.

Modi responded by expressing hope that the friendship between the neighbours continue to scale new heights and enhance prosperity for the two peoples. Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering tweeted he "sees new chapters of friendship unfold for the two countries."

"But for today, I wish the people of India a happy Independence Day. We pray for a peaceful and prosperous India," he wrote. Modi, who is visiting Bhutan later this week, said Tshering is correct about the unwavering friendship between India and Bhutan.

"This friendship is growing in a wide range of sectors, which is a great sign. I look forward to meeting you during my upcoming Bhutan visit," the PM said. PTI NAB RAX

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(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)