World leaders hail PM Modi as India's longest-serving elected PM
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, 10 June became India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister, prompting an outpouring of congratulations from heads of state and senior officials across four continents. Leaders praised his record on economic transformation, global diplomacy, and domestic infrastructure — cementing India's elevated standing in world affairs.
European Union Extends Warm Wishes
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was among the first to mark the occasion, posting on X that India under Modi's leadership 'not only landed on the moon, it is shooting for the stars.' She also highlighted the depth of the EU-India partnership, citing cooperation on technology, mobility, security, defence, and what she called 'the mother of all trade deals.' Von der Leyen's message underscored the strategic weight both sides now attach to bilateral ties.
Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides echoed that sentiment, describing the milestone as a reflection of 'years of dedicated service and leadership.' In his post on X, Christodoulides reaffirmed Cyprus's commitment to deepening the India-Cyprus strategic partnership for the benefit of both peoples.
Nordic and Pacific Leaders Join In
Denmark Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen congratulated Modi on 'the distinction of the longest uninterrupted service as democratically elected PM of India,' according to a post by the Danish PM's office on X. Frederiksen expressed readiness to strengthen and expand the bilateral partnership into new areas.
From the Indo-Pacific, Australia's former Prime Minister Tony Abbott posted on X that Modi 'hasn't just held office, he's dramatically improved his country,' pointing specifically to gains in infrastructure, information technology, and the extension of power and sanitation to remote villages. Abbott also credited Modi — alongside the late Shinzo Abe — with creating the Quad, arguing that 'the entire free world owes him a debt of gratitude.'
Australia's Morrison: 'A True Statesman'
Fellow former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison offered perhaps the most emphatic personal tribute, calling Modi 'a true statesman who has transformed India's economy and standing in the world.' In his X post, Morrison expressed pride in the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership the two countries built together during his tenure, adding, 'Congrats my friend.'
Latin America Acknowledges the Milestone
Argentina's Ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, congratulated Modi on 'remarkable success in the modernisation of its economy' and noted that India had been 'positioned in a place of primacy according to its scale and civilizational trajectory.' Caucino also recalled PM Modi's visit to Argentina in 2025, during which bilateral talks were held with President Javier Milei.
What the Milestone Signals
The breadth of international recognition — spanning Europe, the Indo-Pacific, and Latin America — reflects India's growing diplomatic footprint under Modi's tenure. Notably, multiple leaders specifically cited economic transformation and multilateral security architecture, including the Quad, as defining achievements. As India continues to position itself as a leading power, the global response to this domestic milestone illustrates how closely foreign capitals are tracking New Delhi's trajectory.