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Donald Trump’s Republic Day greeting to India spotlighted a “historic bond” and shared democratic values. Yet, the message comes amid tariff disputes and growing friction over trade and energy ties.
India and US relations have seen their ups and downs over the last year
New Delhi: US President Donald Trump extended warm greetings to India on the occasion of its 77th Republic Day, highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two nations and describing their ties as a “historic bond” rooted in democratic values.
India marked Republic Day on Monday, commemorating the adoption of its Constitution in 1950 a defining moment that laid the foundation for the world’s largest democracy.
In his official Republic Day message, President Trump congratulated the people and government of India, underlining the shared democratic legacy of the two countries.
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“On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of India as you celebrate your 77th Republic Day. The United States and India share a historic bond as the world’s oldest and largest democracies,” Trump said.
“On behalf of the people of the United States, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of India as you celebrate your 77th Republic Day. The United States and India share a historic bond as the world’s oldest and largest democracies.” - President… pic.twitter.com/oC9x3Qs9y3
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) January 26, 2026
The statement was shared publicly by the US Embassy in India through a post on social media platform X, drawing attention to Washington’s emphasis on democratic partnership despite recent trade tensions.
Earlier in the day, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor also conveyed Republic Day wishes and reflected on his experience of attending the Republic Day Parade for the first time.
Calling the celebrations a tribute to India’s Constitution and democratic spirit, Gor highlighted the participation of US-made aircraft in the parade flypast. He described the sight as a “powerful symbol” of the growing strategic and defence cooperation between India and the United States.
“Thrilled to see the US made aircraft soaring in the Indian sky, a powerful symbol of the strength of the U.S.-India strategic partnership,” the ambassador said in his post.
While the Republic Day messages underscored diplomatic goodwill, India-US relations have experienced strain over the past year, primarily over trade issues. The Trump administration imposed tariffs on certain Indian imports and repeatedly warned of further duties in response to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil.
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India has firmly rejected these measures, terming the tariffs unjustified and unreasonable. New Delhi has maintained that it will take all necessary steps to protect its economic interests and national security.
Despite disagreements on trade and energy policy, both nations continue to engage closely across defence, technology, and strategic domains. The Republic Day exchanges reflect an effort by both sides to emphasise shared values and long-term cooperation, even as economic negotiations remain complex.
As India celebrates its constitutional legacy, the messages from Washington signal an intent to keep diplomatic channels open while navigating ongoing challenges in the bilateral relationship.
