Mon Jan 20 05:00:02 UTC 2025: ## Outgoing US Ambassador Garcetti Bids Emotional Farewell to India
**New Delhi, January 20, 2025** – Outgoing U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, concluded his tenure on Sunday with an emotional farewell, praising the strengthened U.S.-India partnership and expressing deep gratitude for his time in the country. In a video message and social media posts, Garcetti described India as his “second home,” highlighting the significant progress made in bilateral relations under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden.
Garcetti cited record-high numbers in visa issuance, trade, defense collaboration, space cooperation, student exchanges, and investments as evidence of the burgeoning partnership. He credited Modi and Biden with elevating the relationship to “new heights,” suggesting a future where this strong connection will be seen as indispensable.
His farewell message was filled with personal anecdotes, describing the Indian people’s warmth and hospitality as having left an “indelible mark” on his soul. He expressed his love for Indian culture, from festivals and music to art and cuisine. Garcetti’s departure paves the way for a new U.S. ambassador appointed by the Trump administration. He assumed his post in May 2023.
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