KOLKATA/UKHRUL: US Ambassador Sergio Gor and West Bengal finance minister Dr Swapan Dasgupta joined government officials, diplomats, business leaders and civil society representatives at a celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States in Kolkata on October 12.
The event was held at ITC Royal Bengal and hosted by US Consul General in Kolkata Kathy Giles-Diaz. It brought together guests from eastern and northeastern India, highlighting the longstanding ties between Kolkata and the United States.
The celebration was part of the US Mission to India’s Freedom 250 initiative, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
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Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Gor highlighted the growing partnership between the United States and India, citing cooperation in trade, technology, security and the Quad.
“The United States and India are trusted partners, and the opportunities ahead of us are incredible,” Gor said, adding that both countries were working towards a more prosperous and secure future.
Giles-Diaz said the anniversary was an opportunity to reaffirm the values of liberty, self-government and unity, while recognising the growing ties between the two countries.
Dasgupta, extending greetings on behalf of the West Bengal government, congratulated the American people on the milestone and welcomed guests to Kolkata during the festive season.
The programme featured performances by the US Navy Band Orient Express, aerial displays and the national anthems of India and the United States, performed by Musician 3rd Class Katie Grace Stephenson.
The US Consulate General in Kolkata said it works across an 11-state consular district covering eastern and northeastern India to promote trade and investment, strengthen educational and cultural exchanges, and deepen people-to-people ties between the two countries.