Obama Congratulates Pakistan and India

India:

Independence Day Congratulations Letter from Barack Obama dated August 15, 2008:

Today, I join with Indian American communities across our country in celebrating the 61st anniversary of India’s independence. It is only natural that the world’s oldest and the world’s largest constitutional democracies should enjoy strong relations. With India, America has one of its most important relationships in an uncertain world.
America and India share many common goals and interests. America is India’s largest trading and investment partner, and both countries are working to protect their people and their values from 21st century threats while at the same time respecting the rule of law and cultural pluralism. Public health, education, agriculture, energy, strategic cooperation and technology are only a few of the fields where we should continue to work jointly.

Our strengthened relationship with India has been achieved in part due to the active involvement of Indian Americans. Indian Americans have been strong contributors to the local communities they have settled in around the country. They balance love of the homeland with a strong commitment to America, and their knowledge, skills, values and entrepreneurial spirit have immeasurably benefited both countries. These efforts have played a significant role in creating a blueprint for bilateral relations that bring our nations closer.

Just as the American Revolution inspired Mahatma Gandhi to free a great people, his victory in turn has inspired generations of young people around the world to pursue freedom in their own countries. As freedom faces challenges in many parts of the world, his example is even more relevant. This enduring legacy is one of the great gifts of India’s revolution, and I join you in celebrating it.

Sincerely,
/s/
Barack Obama

Pakistan:

Independence Day Congratulations Letter from Barack Obama dated August 14, 2008:

Today, I join with Pakistani American communities across our country in celebrating the 61st anniversary of Pakistan’s independence. America’s relationship with Pakistan and the Pakistani people is one of the most important relationships we have as we confront the challenges of the 21st century.

The vast majority of Pakistan’s people share hopes and dreams that are similar to Americans’. As Pakistani American communities demonstrate, yours is a culture of hard work, entrepreneurialism, and love of community – a culture that places a high value on education, family, faith and service to society. As lawyers and other professionals lead Pakistan’s progress toward greater democracy, I am reminded of the vital and vibrant role of ordinary people and civil society in leading a nation to freedom.

Pakistan and America have many common goals and interests. America is Pakistan’s top export partner, and Pakistan in turn purchases many American goods and services. This partnership is built on the work of Pakistani Americans, who balance love of the homeland with a strong commitment to America. Their knowledge, skills, values and entrepreneurial spirit have proven immeasurably beneficial to both countries.

As the Pakistani people work to perfect their democracy, they have an important ally in the United States. That’s why I have cosponsored legislation tripling non-military aid to the Pakistani people and sustaining it for a decade. Working with the Pakistani American community, I am hopeful that the U.S. can support the building of a strong Pakistani democracy that will be a partner in protecting freedom, countering extremism and promoting tolerance in Pakistan and the entire world. Our peace and security require no less of us. I wish you all the best for a joyous Independence Day.

Sincerely,
/s/
Barack Obama