US takes pride in 'indispensable partnership' with India

The United States greeted India on its Independence Day saying it takes pride in "our indispensable partnership" and looks forward to working together for peace, democracy, and prosperity in Asia and around the world.

In a press statement Secretary of State John Kerry recalled his recent visit to India for the fourth annual US-India Strategic Dialogue, "allowing each side to build partnerships" on issues ranging from regional security to women's empowerment.

The US, he said, "also takes pride in our indispensable partnership with India, a friendship built on our shared democratic values, the entrepreneurial spirit of our people, and our rich people-to-people ties,".

Kerry said he looked forward to continuing their "critical efforts to lay the foundations for peace, democracy, and prosperity in Asia and around the world."

The US also joins Indians "in honouring Mahatma Gandhi and the heroes of India, who proved that great change can be achieved through nonviolent means," he said.

Here is the text of Kerry's statement:

"On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of India as you celebrate your Independence Day on August 15.

"During my recent visit to India, I was honoured to witness firsthand the vibrancy of your culture, the energy of your youth, and the strength and resilience of your democratic institutions.

"Together, our governments held their fourth annual US-India Strategic Dialogue, allowing each side to build partnerships on issues such as regional security and defence, science and technology, climate change, and women's empowerment.

"As you mark the 66th anniversary of your independence, the United States joins you in honouring Mahatma Gandhi and the heroes of India, who proved that great change can be achieved through nonviolent means.

"Today the United States also takes pride in our indispensable partnership with India, a friendship built on our shared democratic values, the entrepreneurial spirit of our people, and our rich people-to-people ties.

"I look forward to continuing our critical efforts to lay the foundations for peace, democracy, and prosperity in Asia and around the world."

(Arun Kumar can be contacted at arun.kumar@ians.in)