WASHINGTON– U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel on Friday extended greetings to India on its 79th Independence Day, sharing highlights of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address from the Red Fort on social media.
In February, the Republican-led U.S. Senate confirmed Kashyap Pramod Vinod Patel, 44, as the ninth FBI Director, making him the first Indian American to head the agency. Born to parents from Gujarat who fled Uganda’s ethnic repression and immigrated to the United States via Canada, Patel grew up in New York, studied law, and became a public defender. His rise in public service began during President Donald Trump’s first term, when he served as Chief of Staff at the Pentagon and later as Deputy Director of National Intelligence.
Last month, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Patel in Washington, highlighting cooperation between the two nations in combating organized crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism. “Great to meet FBI Director Kash Patel. Appreciate our strong cooperation in countering organised crime, drug trafficking and terrorism,” Jaishankar posted on X.
Earlier this year, Patel condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, calling it “a reminder of the constant threats our world faces from the evils of terrorism” and pledging continued FBI support to India. “The FBI sends our condolences to all the victims of the recent terrorist attack in Kashmir — and will continue offering our full support to the Indian government,” he posted.
On behalf of the United States, Secretary of State Marco Rubio also conveyed warm wishes to India on its Independence Day, emphasizing the “historic relationship” between the world’s largest and oldest democracies.
“Our two countries are united by our shared vision for a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region,” Rubio said in a statement. “Our partnership spans industries, promotes innovation, pushes the boundaries of critical and emerging technologies, and extends into space. Working together, the United States and India will rise to the modern challenges of today and ensure a brighter future for both our countries.” (Source: IANS)
