With India celebrating its 69th Republic Day today, many world leaders are sending their good wishes.

We already have all the 10 leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as chief guests for this year's grand parade. The rest of the world leaders are sending their wishes via paper or social media.

One of them has been Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Putin had this to say.

"Esteemed Mr Prime Minister,

Kindly accept cordial greetings on the national day – the Republic Day.

The achievements of your country in economic, social, scientific, technical and other spheres are well known. India makes an important contribution to ensuring international stability and security, to solving issues of the regional and global agenda.

Russia values the relations of special and privileged strategic partnership with india. i am convinced that through joint efforts we will bring about further development of bilateral political dialogue, fruitful cooperation across all sectors as well as constructive interaction in global affairs. undoubtedly, it meets the core interests of friendly peoples of our countries.

I full-heartedly wish you good health and success, and to all citizens of India – well-being and prosperity.

Respectfully,

V Putin,

President of the Russian Federation"

Now, ain't that nice of him to say?

For live feed on Republic Day celebrations at Rajpath, follow our blog here:

Republic Day LIVE: President, ASEAN leaders arrive for the parade