Bush greets India on 62nd Independence Day

Washington, Aug 16 (PTI) Greeting India on its 62nd Independence Day, President George W. Bush said that the occasion reminds America of the "close ties" it shares with India.

"I send greetings to those celebrating the 61st anniversary of India's Independence," Bush said in a statement to the Indian-American community released through his Officeof Public Liaison.

Terming India's path to independence a great story of "liberty overcoming oppression", the president said "led by Mahatma Gandhi the Indian people engaged in non-violent protests and campaigns in the pursuit of freedom." "On August 15, 1947 they achieved their goal, gained their independence and became a democratic nation. This accomplishment demonstrates that though freedom can bedelayed, it cannot be denied," he said.

Lauding the contributions of Indian Americans in America's progress, Bush said "it is also a time to remember the rich contributions that the Indian-Americans have made to our country and reminds us of the close ties that our Nation shares with India." "Laura and I send our best wishes on the occasion," he added. PTI SK