PM Modi thanks Serbian President Vučić for milestone congratulations
Synopsis
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić hailed PM Modi as a statesman whose 'voice is heard and respected around the world' after Modi crossed 4,399 days in office on 10 June — surpassing Jawaharlal Nehru's record. Modi's warm response, recalling Vučić's recent India visit, signals that the milestone is also being leveraged to reinforce bilateral partnerships.
Key Takeaways
PM Narendra Modi thanked Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić on 14 June for congratulations on his historic milestone.
On 10 June , Modi became India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister with 4,399 days in office, surpassing Jawaharlal Nehru's record.
The milestone marks 12 continuous years as head of the Central government .
Vučić described Modi as a leader whose 'voice is heard and respected around the world.' Modi recalled Vučić's recent visit to India and reaffirmed India's commitment to strengthening the India-Serbia partnership .
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, 14 June expressed gratitude to Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić after the latter extended congratulations on Modi becoming India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister. The exchange, conducted via posts on X, underscored the warmth of the bilateral relationship between India and Serbia.
Vučić's Congratulatory Message
In his post on X, President Vučić wrote: 'Heartfelt congratulations to @narendramodi on becoming the longest-serving elected Prime Minister in the history of India.' He reflected on the significance of the milestone, stating that 'such longevity in the highest office of the state reflects the trust that citizens place in a leader who has dedicated his life to serving the people and advancing his country.'
Vučić elaborated that 'the true strength of a statesman is not measured by years in office or the number of mandates won, but by the legacy he leaves behind, the results he delivers, and the vision that endures the politics of the day.' He also recalled their most recent bilateral meeting, describing it as 'marked by mutual understanding and sincere respect,' adding that he recognised in Modi 'the wisdom of an experienced statesman and a leader who deeply understands the challenges of the modern world.'
The Serbian President further noted that it is Modi's unique combination of 'experience, foresight, and dedication' that has made him a leader whose 'voice is heard and respected around the world.'
Modi's Response
Responding via X, Prime Minister Modi said: 'Thank you President Vučić for your warm and heartfelt wishes.' He added: 'I fondly recall your recent visit to India and our productive discussions. India deeply values its friendship with Serbia and I look forward to working together to further strengthen our partnership in the years ahead.'
The Historic Milestone
On 10 June, Prime Minister Modi crossed 4,399 days in office as an elected Prime Minister, surpassing the record previously held by India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The milestone marks 12 continuous years at the helm of the Central government, a feat unmatched in India's post-independence democratic history.
India-Serbia Ties
The diplomatic exchange reflects the growing warmth between New Delhi and Belgrade. President Vučić's recent visit to India had been noted for substantive discussions, and Modi's acknowledgement of that visit signals continued bilateral engagement. India and Serbia have historically maintained friendly ties rooted in non-alignment and mutual respect for sovereignty.
As Modi enters a new chapter of his political tenure, international leaders across regions continue to take note of his longevity and the diplomatic capital it represents for India on the world stage.
Point of View
Which carries real negotiating value. What is notable is that Modi's response specifically flagged bilateral discussions and future partnership, using a ceremonial moment to do diplomatic work. The milestone itself, however, invites a harder question: longevity in office is not synonymous with institutional deepening — and the record that matters most is not days served, but the democratic and institutional health of the republic at the end of them.
NationPress
30 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When did PM Modi become India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister?
PM Narendra Modi became India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister on 10 June, completing 4,399 days in office and surpassing the record previously held by Jawaharlal Nehru. This marks 12 continuous years at the head of the Central government.
What did Serbian President Vučić say about PM Modi?
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić congratulated Modi on X, calling the milestone a reflection of 'the trust that citizens place in a leader.' He also described Modi as a statesman whose 'voice is heard and respected around the world' and recalled their recent bilateral meeting with warmth.
How did PM Modi respond to President Vučić's message?
PM Modi responded on X, thanking Vučić for his 'warm and heartfelt wishes.' He recalled Vučić's recent visit to India and reaffirmed that India deeply values its friendship with Serbia, expressing a desire to strengthen bilateral ties further.
Whose record did PM Modi surpass to become the longest-serving elected PM?
PM Modi surpassed the record of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, by completing 4,399 days as an elected Prime Minister. Nehru had previously held the record for the longest tenure as India's elected head of government.
What is the significance of the India-Serbia relationship highlighted in this exchange?
The exchange underscores growing bilateral warmth between India and Serbia, built on President Vučić's recent visit to New Delhi and productive discussions between the two leaders. Modi's response indicated that India sees the partnership as one it intends to deepen in the years ahead.
