314. Letter From Indian Prime Minister Gandhi to President Nixon1 2
Dear Mr. President,
I am touched by your message of November 19. I share your conviction that we now have the best opportunity of building a new structure of lasting peace. The vision itself is inspiring. Its translation into reality would indeed contribute a glorious chapter to the tortured history of mankind. Everywhere, people yearn to be released from the anxieties of poverty and war. If our actions are guided by this consciousness, we can bring peace within our reach. Friendship between our two countries, based on an understanding of each other’s experience and aspirations, will make a distinct contribution towards the larger vision of a generation of peace.
It is gracious of Mrs. Nixon and you to send me your greetings on my birthday. I deeply appreciate this friendly gesture.
With warm regards,
Yours sincerely,
- Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 642, Country Files, Middle East, South Asia, Vol. IV. No classification marking. Gandhi sent Nixon a message of congratulations following his reelection. Nixon responded on November 19 with a letter to Gandhi in which he looked toward improved relations between the U.S. and India: “I hope our two countries can develop a sounder relationship based on understanding and respect for mutual interests.” (Ibid., Box 755, Presidential Correspondence File, India (1972)) Gandhi’s letter of November 28 was delivered to the White House by the Indian Embassy on December 5. The text was transmitted to New Delhi on December 6 in telegram 220565. (Ibid., RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, POL INDIA–US)↩
- Gandhi responded in kind to a letter from Nixon expressing his desire for improved relations.↩