Indians across world celebrate 66th Republic Day

BEIJING/BANGKOK: Indians across the world today soaked in the spirit of patriotism as they celebrated the 66th Republic Day with fervour, unfurling the tri-colour to the strains of the national anthem and organising cultural festivities to mark the occasion.

In China, Indian Ambassador Ashok K Kantha hoisted the tri-colour at the Indian Embassy in Beijing and spoke of "remarkable progress" made in India-China relations.

Kantha, who read the President Pranab Mukherjee's address, said 2014 witnessed remarkable dynamism and progress in the bilateral relations.

"After taking over power Narendra Modi Government conveyed clearly that it attached the highest priority to developing relations with China. The Chinese government also reached out, and as a result, we could make tangible gains in bilateral relations," he said.

The activities this year will begin with the visit of External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to China in the next few weeks and Modi's visit later this year, he said.

The two countries have strengthened ties in all areas, including in the political, strategic, economic and cultural spheres, Kantha said.

"Several new areas of cooperation emerged during President Xi Jinping's visit to India, including in railways and industrial parks, where we are seeing good progress," he said.

"We have agreed on key initiatives in the fields of smart cities, space, civil nuclear energy, cultural exchanges and tourism," he said.

The event was enlivened by music and dance performances by Indian and Chinese artists.

The tri-colour fluttered proudly across South East Asia as Indian nationals, ethnic Indians and friends of India gathered to celebrate the Republic Day at the Indian missions in the region.

In Bangkok, India's Ambassador to Thailand Harsh Vardhan Shringla hoisted the national flag at the Embassy premises where over 400 people cheered as rose petals dropped when the Tri-colour unfurled to the strains of the national anthem.

Patriotic songs, poetry recital and cultural programmes were staged after Shringla read out excerpts of the President's address to the nation.

In Hanoi, India's envoy to Vietnam Preeti Saran held an open house for the Indian community. She hoisted the flag and then read the President's address.

At least 150 members of the Indian community attended the function.