John Kerry wishes India ahead of I-Day

"On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I send our best wishes to the people of the Republic of India as you celebrate your Independence Day this August 15," In a statement Kerry said.

"Today we commemorate the legacy of India’s freedom fighters, including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel, whose message of nonviolence established a united, inclusive republic and served to inspire leaders from around the globe. On my many visits over the years, I never cease to be amazed by India’s rich national identity. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the jungles of the Western Ghats, India is a stunningly beautiful landscape with rich cultures, histories and peoples united under one nation. Since 1947, India has stood as a beacon for the world: as an economic power that prides innovation, as a resilient democracy in the face of terror, and as a strategic power that upholds international norms," he said.

Kerry said: "As the world’s largest democracies, the United States and India stand side by side in defending and promoting the freedoms and values we hold dear. As was highlighted during President Obama’s visit for India’s Republic Day in January, the United States takes pride in our indispensable partnership with India, a friendship built on our shared democratic values, the entrepreneurial spirit of our people, and our shared interests."

He said India will find the US as a willing and able partner in the cause of freedom, democracy, and prosperity.

"As India continues its tryst with destiny into the 21st century, it will find in the United States a willing and able partner in the cause of freedom, democracy, and prosperity. Jai Hind," Kerry said.