Washington DC, Aug. 15 -- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the strength of the India-US relationship and their shared commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region.

While extending his warm wishes to the people of India on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, the US Secretary of State, in a statement, highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the world's oldest and largest democracies.

He described the relationship between India and the US as "consequential and far-reaching," built on shared democratic values, mutual respect, and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

"On behalf of the United States, I extend our congratulations and warm wishes to the people of India as they celebrate ...