New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 75 on Wednesday, receiving greetings from presidents, prime ministers, global leaders, and spiritual figures who lauded his leadership and India’s growing role on the world stage. Messages poured in from across continents, with many highlighting India’s global partnerships under his tenure.

Trump calls his ‘friend’ Modi

US President Donald Trump revealed that he spoke with PM Modi over the phone a day earlier. In a post on Truth Social, he called Modi his “friend” and praised his role in international diplomacy.

“Just had a wonderful phone call with my friend, Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I wished him a very Happy Birthday! He is doing a tremendous job. Narendra: Thank you for your support on ending the War between Russia and Ukraine!” Trump wrote.

Responding on X, PM Modi thanked Trump for the call and reiterated India’s commitment to deepening the strategic partnership with the United States.

Italy and Russia extend admiration

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni shared a selfie with PM Modi and described him as a source of inspiration. “Happy 75th birthday to the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His strength, determination, and ability to lead millions of people are a source of inspiration. I wish him health and energy to continue guiding India towards a bright future,” she wrote.

Russian President Vladimir Putin also sent a personal note published on the Kremlin’s website. “You are making a great personal contribution to strengthening the special privileged strategic partnership between our countries,” Putin wrote, praising Modi’s global stature and the respect he enjoys at home and abroad.

 

Australia, New Zealand, and UK hail ties

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese sent a video message, hailing Modi as a “friend” and celebrating the contributions of the Indian community in Australia. “I look forward to many more years of friendship and progress,” he said.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon congratulated PM Modi in a warm message, recalling his recent visit to India. “Kia ora, namaskar, my good friend Prime Minister Modi… A milestone like this is a moment to reflect on the wisdom of your leadership as you seek to guide India towards becoming a developed country by 2047,” he said, while inviting Modi to visit New Zealand soon.

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called Modi a “good friend” to both him and Britain. Recalling India’s G20 presidency in 2023, he said, “It was a superb event befitting India’s standing on the world stage. Modi Ji, I wish you all the very best for your birthday and look forward to seeing you soon.”

Israel and spiritual leaders join in

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended greetings with a personal note: “Prime Minister Modi, my good friend Narendra, I want to wish you a happy birthday. We can bring our partnership and friendship to even greater heights,” he said.

The Dalai Lama praised India’s religious pluralism and harmony, attributing much of the country’s growing confidence to PM Modi’s leadership. “India presents an example of harmony and stability to the world,” he wrote, congratulating Modi on guiding the country’s progress.

Global voices from philanthropy

Philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates also joined the chorus, highlighting India’s developmental partnerships with the Gates Foundation. “I wish you good health and continued strength as you lead India’s fantastic progress and contribute to global development,” Gates said.

India’s rising global role

The widespread greetings underscore India’s growing visibility and leadership on global issues, from climate action and technology to peace and development. For Modi, the milestone birthday came with recognition not only of his domestic political standing but also of his influence in shaping India’s international partnerships.