US Ambassador Sergio Gor and West Bengal Finance Minister Dr. Swapan Dasgupta Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary in Kolkata
North East, Oct 13, 2026 : US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor and West Bengal Finance Minister Dr. Swapan Dasgupta joined senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders and civil society representatives at ITC Royal Bengal in Kolkata to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the independence of the United States of America, highlighting the growing strategic partnership and enduring people-to-people ties between the United States and India.
The celebration was organised by the US Consulate General in Kolkata as part of the US Mission to India’s nationwide Freedom 250 commemorations, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
US Consul General in Kolkata Kathy Giles-Diaz welcomed distinguished guests from across eastern and northeastern India. The gathering reflected Kolkata’s more than two centuries of historical connections with the United States and the continuing relationship between the American and Indian people.
Ambassador Gor Highlights Growing US-India Partnership
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Sergio Gor emphasised the importance of freedom, economic cooperation and strategic engagement between the two countries. He said the anniversary was not only an occasion to celebrate American history but also an opportunity to recognise the achievements and future potential of the US-India partnership.
“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,” Ambassador Gor said.
Describing the United States and India as trusted partners, he highlighted the significant opportunities for cooperation in trade, technology, security and the Quad framework.
He said both countries were working together to build a more prosperous and secure future for their people, underlining the growing importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing economic and strategic priorities.
The Ambassador’s remarks placed the anniversary celebrations in the broader context of expanding US-India engagement, with particular emphasis on practical outcomes and the opportunities that lie ahead for both nations.
Kathy Giles-Diaz Emphasises Shared Values and Historical Ties
US. Consul General Kathy Giles-Diaz described the occasion as a privilege and stressed that the 250th anniversary represented 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.
Her remarks highlighted the enduring connections between the two countries, built through generations of cultural exchanges, educational cooperation, business relationships and people-to-people contacts.
The Kolkata celebration also demonstrated the importance of regional engagement in strengthening bilateral ties, particularly across eastern and northeastern India.
West Bengal Finance Minister Extends Congratulations
West Bengal Finance Minister Dr. Swapan Dasgupta conveyed his warm congratulations to the American people on the historic milestone and welcomed the distinguished guests to Kolkata during the city's festive season.
“It's always a pleasure to welcome all of you to Kolkata in this festive season when the city comes alive, with both reverence and celebration. 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,” Dasgupta said.
On behalf of the West Bengal government, he extended his congratulations to the people of the United States, recognising the significance of the anniversary.
His participation added a state-level dimension to the celebration, bringing together representatives of the American diplomatic mission and the West Bengal government on an occasion centred on historical friendship and future cooperation.
Cultural Performances Mark the Historic Occasion
The evening featured musical and aerial performances reflecting the celebratory theme.