United States Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti celebrated the 248th U.S. National Day in Chennai recently where he praised the expanding U.S.-India partnership, particularly in the domains of space exploration and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

The American National Day, also referred to as the Fourth of July in the United States, commemorates the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

Ambassador Garcetti, presiding over the event hosted by the U.S. Consulate General Chennai, underscored the strategic alliance between the two nations, highlighting their collaborative ventures in space technology and STEM education.

He lauded south India’s pivotal role in advancing these initiatives, especially the U.S.-India space collaboration on NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) mission. 

He also spoke about sending an Indian in a U.S. rocket to the International Space Station. 

Garcetti said, “Space takes away and adds to who we are.  It takes away our narrow identities and connects us across borders and oceans.  It’s building the special relationship here in the Indo-Pacific, but it also makes us greater than that by becoming one single human family together.”

Tamil Nadu Minister for School Education Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, who represented Chief Minister M.K. Stalin at the event, said, “The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai serves as a vital bridge of communication and cooperation.  The collaboration with American Consulate enhances our educational system by integrating global perspectives, research, and best practices.  As we commemorate the milestone in American history, let us reaffirm our commitment to strengthening the bonds of friendship between Tamil Nadu and the United States.  Let us continue to embrace the spirit of partnership and cooperation leveraging the resources and expertise of the American Consulate for a prosperous future of our youth and communities.”

U.S. Consul General in Chennai Chris Hodges and Guest of Honor Actor Kamal Haasan were also present and emphasized the multifaceted nature of U.S.-India relations, particularly in advancing space technology and STEM education.

In his address, Kamal Haasan hailed the space-themed National Day program as a great unifier and appreciated women’s role in recent space expeditions.