Even as trade disputes and policy differences continue to weigh on bilateral ties, US President Donald Trump on Monday described India and the United States as partners bound by a “historic bond” while extending greetings on the occasion of India’s 77th Republic Day.
Trump’s message, shared by the US Embassy in New Delhi, comes at a time when relations between the two countries have faced strain over tariffs, immigration policies and strategic disagreements. “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,” Trump said.
“The United States and India share a historic bond as the world’s oldest and largest democracies,” he added.
Rubio stresses strategic cooperation
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also conveyed greetings, highlighting the expanding scope of cooperation between the two countries.
“From our close cooperation on defence, energy, critical minerals and emerging technologies to our multi-layered engagement through the Quad, the US-India relationship delivers real results for our two countries and for the Indo-Pacific region,” Rubio said. He added that he looked forward to working with India to advance shared objectives in the coming year.
Rubio’s remarks underscored Washington’s focus on deepening security and economic engagement with New Delhi despite unresolved differences.
US ambassador attends parade
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor attended the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, calling the experience a reflection of the strength of bilateral ties.
“Happy Republic Day, India! Honoured to attend the Republic Day Parade for the first time, a celebration of India’s Constitution and democratic spirit,” Gor said.
He also highlighted the presence of US-made aircraft in the aerial display, describing it as “a powerful symbol of the US-India strategic partnership”. US-origin C-130J transport aircraft and Apache helicopters featured in the flypast.
Trade and tariff tensions
The Republic Day greetings come against the backdrop of a downturn in ties following the Trump administration’s decision to impose tariffs of up to 50 per cent on Indian goods, including a 25 per cent punitive levy linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil.
The measures triggered sharp reactions in New Delhi and disrupted bilateral trade flows. Both sides held multiple rounds of negotiations last year to finalise a proposed bilateral trade agreement, but talks failed to yield a breakthrough. The deadlock was largely due to Washington’s demand for greater access to India’s farm and dairy sectors.
Beyond trade, relations have also been tested by other issues, including Trump’s claim of having ended the India-Pakistan conflict in May last year and changes to US immigration policies affecting skilled Indian workers.
Diplomatic sources said these differences have complicated efforts to reset ties, even as engagement at the strategic and defence levels remains strong.