In a significant development marking the close-knit ties between India and the US, US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti told that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited US President Joe Biden to be the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations on January 26 next year.
During a session hosted by the Ananta Centre, Garcetti confirmed to India Today that the gesture from Prime Minister Modi underlines the deepening relationship between the two nations, as they look forward to fostering stronger ties in the coming years. The details surfaced as Garcetti responded to a query by India Today regarding the possible presence of Quad leaders at the upcoming Republic Day festivities.
“US President Biden has been invited for Republic Day by Prime Minister Modi during the bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit. Although the PM did not mention the Quad,” said Ambassador Garcetti.
Earlier media reports had suggested that India was mooting the idea of inviting all Quad leaders for the Republic Day celebrations, a strategic move seen in consonance with India’s escalating engagements on the Quad front. The leaders include Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The final decision was reportedly dependent on the availability of these world leaders.
An invitation to be a part of the Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest holds considerable symbolic value, representing India’s strategic diplomatic relations and partnerships. Typically, formal invitations are issued following an informal confirmation regarding the availability of the dignitaries, ensuring the presence of a significant ally as the chief guest on this notable day in Indian history.
Moreover, India is slated to host the forthcoming Quad summit in 2024, a crucial event in the backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics in the region, furthering its role in global strategic developments and reinforcing its relationships with fellow Quad nations.
The speculation is that should Biden agree to be the chief guest, the Quad Summit could be held a day before, on January 25, since Australia celebrates its National Day on January 26 and Prime Minister Albanese will not be able to attend a Quad Leaders’ meet on the same day.
The forthcoming Republic Day event and Quad Summit could be important junctures in bolstering India’s diplomatic outreach and strengthening international ties, especially given frosty relations with China and now even Canada.
