Indian PM greets US on Independence Day, hails bilateral ties

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday greeted the United States on the occasion of its Independence Day, hailing the bilateral ties between the two " vibrant democracies".

In a series of tweets, Modi expressed hope that bilateral relations would get better and strong in days to come, given both are proud of their democracies.

"The ties between India and the U.S. are time tested and connected by shared values. We are both vibrant democracies and remain very proud of our democratic framework," the prime minister said.

He added "I am extremely excited and confident about the renewed energy in India-USA ties. Our economic ties are very strong and our cultural ties are vibrant."

Modi also recalled his visit to the United States and U.S. President Barack Obama's India visit, saying the visits bolstered the bilateral ties.

"Last year I visited USA and in January this year, President Barack Obama came to India and became the first ever president of USA to join our Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest," he said.

The prime minister added "Strong India-U.S. ties will benefit people of our nations and the world at large. I am optimistic that our relations are going to get even better in times to come."