WASHINGTON, D.C. (January 25, 2010) – The White House Office of the Press Secretary has released comments of President Barack Obama on the occasion of India Republic Day.
The Constitution of India went into effect on January 26, 1950. The date is significant in India as a day to honor the memory of struggle from the time of the declaration of independence in 1930 until the end of the colonial period on August 14, 1947, another day that is celebrated in India.
“I send my warmest wishes on behalf of the American people to the people of India and to those here in America and around the world who are celebrating Republic Day,” stated Obama. “As the world’s largest democracies, the United States and India have a strong shared belief in the values of liberty, pluralism, and religious tolerance.”
Obama said that the 2010 Republic Day is particularly special because it marks India’s Diamond Jubilee.
“In the sixty years since the Indian Constitution was adopted, we have built a strong and vibrant partnership,” he added. “I was pleased that Prime Minister Singh was the honored guest for the first state dinner of my Presidency. It was a chance to celebrate the great and growing partnership between our two Nations, and the friendship between our peoples.
“Indeed, the more than two million Indian Americans in the United States enrich every corner of our great nation – leading in government, science, industry and the arts. And as our peoples continue to build upon that friendship, let our governments continue to work together to advance peace, prosperity, and stability around the globe.”
