Washington, Jan.26 (ANI): US President Barack Obama has sent his and the American people’s warmest wishes to India on the occasion of the country’s 61st Republic Day.

In statement released on his behalf by the American Embassy in New Delhi, Obama said: “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. 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.”

He further went on to say: “This 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. 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,” he concluded. (ANI)