US Ambassador Eric Garcetti visits Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad Ahmedabad: United States Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti visited Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat's Ahmedabad on Monday. Speaking to the reporters present there, Eric said, "The relationship between India and the United States is based on a common desire to have stronger economies and a peaceful, prosperous Indo-Pacific region. Wherever that is challenged and we will stand together."
"Today, while so much has changed since I was 19-year-old, one thing that has not changed is the sense of connection I feel, not only to this place now and to the man, who lived here with his family, but to the aspirations of the Indian people and the universal aspirations of all of us to live freely and to recognise the work of every human being," he said.
"It doesn't matter where you come from, it does not matter, who your parents are, it does not matter what religion you practice, it does not matter what language you speak--all that matters is the dreams in your hearts and working hard to achieve them--and those dreams of India are being realised every single day," he said.
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Garcetti said when he came to India at the age of 14, the trade between India and the US was just two billion dollars. "Today, it is over 100 billion dollars and it (the US) is the number one trading partner with India. Back then, there were no defence cells, zero dollars and now we are an important part of a mutual strategy to keep our people safe and protect the Indo-Pacific region together," he said.
"Today I visited the UNESCO heritage city of Ahmedabad. Will discuss bilateral relations with Gujarat's business leaders and social leaders in Gandhinagar's Gift City. My trip would be incomplete if I visit Ahmedabad and do not visit the largest cricket stadium in the world," he said. He further said, "The Sabarmati Ashram stands as an enduring symbol of Gandhiji's message of non-violence and the foundation of India's democracy. This is my first visit outside New Delhi as Ambassador." (With Agency Inputs)
