Acting Tibetan PM in-exile wishes India to become world's most powerful nation

Acting Tibetan Prime Minister in-exile, Pema Chhinjor, unfurled the tricolor here on Sunday to mark 65th Republic Day, and also expressed the desire to see India as the most powerful nation in the world.

Chhinjor said that India was progressing slowly but steadily.

"This country is progressing little slow but steadily so we hope that this country becomes one of the most powerful nations in the world that is our prayer," he told media here today.

Chhinjor also expressed his hopes to celebrate this day for Tibet in Lhasa.

"Definitely we are hoping, as I am telling them that India lived under British rule for about two hundred years. Tibet is occupied in 1959... so definitely we are hoping," he said.

"Tibetans in Tibet are so courageous, they are not forgetting their beliefs and identity despite Chinese repression so that's our inspiration and sooner or later we will celebrate the day in Lhasa in front of the Potala," he added.

India celebrated its 65th Republic Day, which was marked by a colourful parade showcasing the nation's cultural diversity and military strength. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was the Chief Guest at the celebrations.