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'Picture abhi baaki hai': US envoy departs, leaving stronger ties
“Your people's ‘dosti’ and their ‘zindadili’ touch me every day," Eric Garcetti said in a video as his term as the US Ambassador to India concludes.
Garcetti in his final meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. / X
In a heartfelt farewell video posted on X, outgoing U.S. Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti reflected on his tenure and the deep connections he forged during his time in the country. Borrowing the iconic Bollywood phrase, "Picture abhi baaki hai mere dost," Garcetti underscored his belief in the ongoing strength of U.S.-India relations.
"We brought more students to India and from India than ever before, planting the seeds of tomorrow's mutual hope today," Garcetti said, highlighting the growing educational ties between the two nations as he prepares to depart before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on Jan.20.
Emphasizing the shared values between India and the U.S., Garcetti remarked, "The American and the Indian dream, they're flip sides of the same coin." He praised India's diversity, rich traditions, and innovative spirit, stating that his experiences in the country have left an indelible mark on his soul.
Reflecting on his journey, Garcetti recounted his experiences from the moment he arrived in New Delhi as the 26th U.S. Ambassador. "From the moment I landed in New Delhi to serve as the 26th U.S. Ambassador, you have felt like home. This extraordinary country I first visited as a child and again as a student has captured my imagination, and you, its people, have captured my heart," he said.
Garcetti expressed deep gratitude for the hospitality he received, saying, "How do I say thank you to the most hospitable people in the world? Your people's ‘dosti’ and their ‘zindadili’ touch me every day." He acknowledged the warmth of Indian people who welcomed him into their homes, schools, and places of worship, sharing their culture and traditions.
As I bid farewell to India after serving as the 26th U.S. Ambassador to this amazing country, my heart is full. You’ve given me a second home, a family of friends, and memories that will last a lifetime. Today, I leave as more than an ambassador—I leave as a lifelong friend and… pic.twitter.com/FEB6YqoRlm
— U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti (@USAmbIndia) January 19, 2025
Recalling his travels across India, Garcetti said he visited 28 states, floating past the Ghats in Varanasi, crossing the living root bridges in Meghalaya, sailing through Kerala’s backwaters, and celebrating culture in Kolkata. He also mentioned his experiences cheering for India at Modi Stadium and playing basketball with young girls in Mumbai.
Reflecting on collaborative efforts between the two countries, he noted, "We've loaded vaccines we developed together onto trucks that will save lives. I've seen our scientists build the satellites that we will send into the heavens to protect our planet. And we've seen our businesses trade together, our guardians train together, and our people celebrate together."
During his farewell, Garcetti had a final meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sharing a message on X, he wrote, "Had a great final visit with PM Modi with my family. It’s clear that he and President Biden have raised our compelling and consequential U.S.-India partnership to new heights—record visas, record trade, record defense collaboration, record space cooperation, record students, record investments and so much more.”
Had a great final visit with PM Modi with my family. It’s clear that he and President Biden have raised our compelling and consequential U.S.-India partnership to new heights—record visas, record trade, record defense collaboration, record space cooperation, record students,… pic.twitter.com/oHCbZBwX3v
— U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti (@USAmbIndia) January 19, 2025
He also thanked PM Modi adding:“What was seen as unthinkable a generation ago will seem as indispensable a generation from now, thanks to the work of these leaders and the people of our nations. Thank you Prime Minister and thank you to all Indians. It’s been a daily joy to help co-write this chapter with you."
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