Washington: The future of the Indo-American partnership has never been brighter, President Donald Trump said in praising the “irreplaceable contributions” of the Indian-American community in shaping the country.
Trump in his message to the Indian Day parade in Chicago to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Indian independence said that the United States and India shared a lasting bond of friendship based on great respect for the values of democracy And mutual security.
“Thanks to the irreplaceable contributions of Hindus and Native Americans, the future of our valuable partnership has never looked brighter, and we continue to foster greater cooperation for future generations,” Trump said in the message.
“By celebrating this magnificent milestone for the people of India, we proudly recognize all Hindus and Native Americans who have influenced the character configuration of our great nation,” Trump said, according to his message read on the occasion.
Addressing the meeting, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner said the Native American community is an integral part of the US, enriching it with color, music, food, and dance.
In his comments, he praised the indigenous community of America for contributing to the commercial and cultural heritage of the state and the country.
Rauner also read a proclamation signed by him stating August 15 as the official Indian Independence Day in the state of Illinois.
The one-day event culminated in a concert by singer Mika Singh. The concert was attended by about 30,000 people.
Top US lawmakers on India’s Independence Day called for improving the Indo-US partnership. “Today we celebrate India’s Independence Day and welcome new opportunities to expand economic cooperation and strengthen our trade relations,” said Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas.
For the past 71 years, India has proved to be a shining example of democracy and growth, said Rep. Frank Pallone.
“India’s expanded role on the world stage has made it one of the most important allies in the United States and I will continue to work to strengthen our relationship through my work in Congress,” he said.
Indiana Congressman Todd Rokita, Congressman John Culberson of Texas and Congressman Pete Olson congratulated the Indians on the special day.
Meanwhile, in Houston, hundreds of American Indians celebrated the day with patriotic fervor; Singing with enthusiasm the national anthem and illuminating houses and temples in tricolor.
Consul General Anupam Ray hoisted the flag in the early hours of the morning and recognized the American veterans. “We, as a nation, admire what America represents and salute the best of America: the veterans of the United States,” Ray said. “What represents the people of the United States the best, could only think of the Veterans, since they are the pillars of American society.”
He said that the Indian community in America was grateful to America and wanted to give back something. “When I learned that this is what they feel, I thought they should connect with the veterans because that is how the Indians who have come here have enjoyed their freedom, the opportunities the United States gives and that is how they can say” Thank you “to the people who made it possible, we hope this is the beginning of a long relationship, we will admire what America represents and we admire the best of America,” said Ray.
