Washington, Aug. 15 : U. S. President George W. Bush has greeted India on its 62nd Independence Day.

In a message to the Indian-American community in his country, Bush said that the event reminds America of the "close ties" it shares with India.

"I send greetings to those celebrating the 62nd anniversary of India''s Independence," Bush said in a statement released through his Office of Public Liaison.

Terming India''s path to independence a great story of "liberty overcoming oppression", he said: "Led by Mahatma Gandhi the Indian people engaged in non-violent protests and campaigns in the pursuit of freedom."

"On August 15, 1947 they achieved their goal, gained their independence and became a democratic nation. This accomplishment demonstrates that though freedom can be delayed, it cannot be denied," he added.

Lauding the contributions of Indian Americans in America''s progress, Bush said: "it is also a time to remember the rich contributions that the Indian-Americans have made to our country and reminds us of the close ties that our Nation shares with India."

"Laura (his wife) and I send our best wishes on the occasion," he added.(ANI)