New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday thanked his Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, for her warm wishes on his 75th birthday, saying he "deeply" values Italy’s friendship and looks forward to strengthening it further.

In a post on X, Meloni had written in Italian: “Happy 75th birthday to the Indian Prime Minister @narendramodi. His strength, his determination, and his ability to lead millions of people are a source of inspiration. With friendship and esteem, I wish him health and energy to continue leading India toward a bright future and to further strengthen the relations between our Nations.”

Modi responded: “Thank you Prime Minister Meloni for your warm wishes. Deeply appreciate Italy’s friendship and look forward to strengthening it further.”

World leaders send wishes

Birthday greetings for the Prime Minister poured in from across the globe. US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin both called Delhi, while leaders such as Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended their wishes on social media.

Earlier in the evening, Modi expressed gratitude to people across India and overseas. “I am truly overwhelmed by the countless wishes, blessings and messages of affection… This affection strengthens and inspires me. I thank the people for the same,” he posted on X.

The Prime Minister also praised citizens for taking part in social service initiatives linked to his birthday. “This inherent goodness in our people sustains our society and gives us the courage to overcome all challenges with hope and positivity,” he said.

PM Modi’s 75th birthday has been marked with blood donation drives, health check-up camps, and the launch of multiple welfare schemes, including ‘Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar’ and the 8th Rashtriya Poshan Maah, billed as India’s largest-ever health outreach programme for women and children.