'Not just incredible, you're unforgettable, my dear India’: US envoy Eric Garcetti bids farewell to New Delhi

In a farewell message, outgoing US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti shared a heartfelt video on social media and reflected on the time he has spent in his “second home.” Garcetti highlighted the strong bonds formed between the two nations during his tenure as the 26th US envoy.

“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 supporter of #USIndiaFWDfortheFuture,” Garcetti said on X.

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

— Ambassador Sergio Gor (@USAmbIndia) January 19, 2025

In the video posted on his social media, Garcetti expressed his deep connection with India, a country he first visited as a child and later as a student.

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“My dear India: you’re not just incredible–you’re unforgettable. With love, Eric,” Garcetti said.

“From the moment I landed in New Delhi to serve as the 26th US Ambassador, India has felt like home. Your people’s dosti and zindadili touch me every day,” he said.

He said that he was welcomed with warmth and hospitality by the people of India, highlighting the diverse experiences he had during his time in the country.

During his time in India, Garcetti travelled to all 28 states and experienced the country’s unique culture and heritage. He mentioned some of his most memorable moments in India, such as floating past the Ghats at Varanasi, crossing living root bridges in Meghalaya, sailing through the backwaters of Kerala, and cheering for the Indian cricket team at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

“We’ve launched a new beginning in Bangalore,” he further said, referring to the opening of the new US consulate in India’s Silicon Valley.

He also emphasised the successful cooperation between scientists, businesses, and students from both countries. “We’ve seen our businesses trade together, our guardians train together, and our people celebrate together,” Garcetti said.

The outgoing Ambassador also praised the spirit of innovation and progress in India and the shared dreams both the countries hold. “The American and the Indian dream, they’re flip sides of the same coin,” Garcetti said.

Picture abhi baaki hai mere dost: Garcetti

“India, you have my heart, I will always deeply love America, where I was born. But India has been a place where I’ve learned to embrace life in full color, a place where humanity can understand our past, and it can glimpse our future,” Garcetti said.

He ended his video with the famous Bollywood line, “Picture abhi baaki hai mere dost,” from Shah Rukh Khan’s movie Om Shanti Om.

Garcetti concludes his term as envoy to India

Garcetti was appointed US Ambassador to India in 2023. As President Joe Biden’s term comes to an end, Garcetti is also concluding his term as envoy to India. He is also the former Mayor of Los Angeles.

President-elect Donald Trump will assume office at the White House on January 20, after his swearing-in ceremony.