Manmohan Singh lauds Indian-American contribution to India-US ties

Washington, Nov.24 (ANI): Stating that the edifice of the India-US partnership is founded on many pillars, Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmhan Singh said on Monday that one of these pillars was the large Indian-American community, which has contributed enormously and significantly to building ties between the two countries.

Addressing the Council of Foreign Relations here, Dr. Singh said the strength and vitality of the Indian and American people has contributed to a relationship that is based on pragmatism and principle; and strengthened by shared values and common interests.

"Our ties draw heavily on the strength and vitality of the Indian and American people. The 2.7 million strong Indian American community has made good the enormous opportunities provided to them in their adopted home. They are a powerful factor in drawing our two countries together," Dr. Singh said.

He also said that US President Barack Obama's advocacy of an inclusive approach to problem solving and primacy to dialogue as an instrument of policy, could create many more opportunities for both "democracies to work together in realizing the vision of a shared destiny for all humankind."

"Collaboration and cooperation between our two countries will be indispensable for shaping a global society that is responsive to the needs and aspirations of the 21st century and where countries can pursue their legitimate interests in a secure and just environment," he concluded. By Smita Prakash (ANI)