NEW DELHI: President Ram Nath Kovind noted that foundations of India are equality, secularism and friendship.

He was addressing the nation on the eve of the 69th Republic Day. Earlier in the day, President Kovind received the ASEAN Heads of State and Government at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hosted a lunch in their honour.

He said that “India-ASEAN relations have come a long way since we established our Dialogue Partnership with ASEAN on January 28, 1992.”

He added that ASEAN is a Strategic Partner for India as there are 30 dialogue mechanisms between India and ASEAN including Annual Summits and 7 Ministerial Meetings in a wide range of sectors.

President Ram Nath Kovind, in his Hindi and English broadcasts, said today is the day to remember the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the country. He thanked all army men, doctors, farmers, nurses, scientists, engineers and the mothers of the country.

The nation’s freedom fighters fought not only for the nation’s independence but also for social change, said President Kovind.

The lessons they taught are still relevant to us in every field, inspiring the development of the country.

He also said that more than 60 per cent of Indian citizens are below 35 years of age. They are the future of our country.

One of the biggest challenges is dealing with malnutrition of the children of the country and although much progress has been made, a lot more needs to be done, said President Kovind.

He ended his speech congratulating all citizens, saying everyone would be inspired by the country’s culture and traditions.