US Consulate Kolkata marks 250th anniversary of American Independence

Kolkata, October 13 (MExN): US Ambassador to India Gor and West Bengal Finance Minister Dr Swapan Dasgupta joined guests at ITC Royal Bengal, Kolkata to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.The event, part of the US Mission to India’s Freedom 250 celebrations, was held on October 12 and hosted by US Consul General in Kolkata Kathy Giles-Diaz, who welcomed senior government officials, business leaders, diplomats, and representatives of civil society from across eastern and northeastern India.Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Gor highlighted the growing US-India partnership and the tangible results it is delivering for both countries, an update received here stated.  “Tonight, we celebrate 250 years of American freedom: the freedom to build, to compete, and to win. And here in Kolkata, we also celebrate a US-India partnership that is delivering real results for both of our nations. The United States and India are trusted partners, and the opportunities ahead of us are incredible,” he said. “From trade and technology to security and the Quad, we are working together to build a more prosperous and secure future for both of our peoples,” Ambassador Gor added.Consul General Giles-Diaz said the occasion was a reaffirmation of shared values. “It is a privilege to celebrate this historic 250th anniversary here in Kolkata. This is more than a commemoration of the past - it is a reaffirmation of the values of liberty, self-government, and unity that continue to unite the American people, and a reminder of the deep and growing ties between the United States and India,” she said. Finance Minister Dr Dasgupta extended congratulations on behalf of the West Bengal government. “It’s a privilege to be a part of the special occasion commemorating the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America.”The evening featured performances by the US Navy Band Orient Express and aerial performances, with Musician 3rd Class Katie Grace Stephenson performing the national anthems of India and the United States.The celebration reflected Kolkata's more than two centuries of ties with the United States. Across its 11-state consular district, the US Consulate General Kolkata works with partners to expand trade and investment, strengthen educational and cultural connections, and deepen people-to-people ties between the two nations.