Divya Delhi: On India's 79th Independence Day, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio paid tribute to the world's largest and oldest democracies' “consequential and far-reaching” ties. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the India-US cooperation and their commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific. As he sent his best wishes to India on its 79th Independence Day, the US Secretary of State underlined that the world's two largest democracies are also forming a strategic partnership. He called India-US relations “consequential and far-reaching,” based on democratic norms, mutual respect, and multi-sector cooperation. According to a Thursday (local time) US Department of State statement, Rubio stated, “On behalf of the United States, I extend our congratulations and warm wishes to the people of India as they celebrate their Independence Day on August 15. “The relationship between the world's largest and oldest democracies is significant. Our nations share a vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific. We collaborate across industries, foster innovation, advance important and emerging technologies, and go into space. The statement stated that the US and India will overcome modern challenges and build a brighter future together.