It is my honor to present Kindred Nations: The United States and India, 1783-1947, the latest exhibition curated by the Meridian Center for Cultural Diplomacy.

For more than 35 years, Meridian International Center has created neutral environments that encourage cultural collaboration and international understanding, where individuals from all levels of society can appreciate one another. The Meridian Center for Cultural Diplomacy employs a unique approach to diplomacy by engaging the public and private sectors in the United States and abroad through exchange programs, educational initiatives, and compelling exhibitions.

Kindred Nations demonstrates that the United States and India have a long and rich relationship that, like our two dynamic countries, is constantly evolving. The images in this exhibition – of leaders, merchants, immigrants, artists, educators, and students – show that the friendship between both nations is built on a foundation of shared respect.

I would like to offer my sincere thanks to Secretary of State John F. Kerry for his support of this project, as well as to the Public Affairs staff at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi for their assistance in this creative partnership. I am also pleased to express gratitude to our co-curator, Dr. Susan Bean, for her insight and expertise.

Lastly, I am delighted to recognize the efforts of the Meridian Center for Cultural Diplomacy team for their unique approach to history, meticulously researching and rediscovering aspects of this long-standing relationship to share with viewers around India: Dr. Curtis Sandberg, Senior Vice President for Arts and Cultural Programs; Terry K. Harvey, Director of Exhibitions; Lindsay Amini, Exhibitions Coordinator; Athena Hsieh, Cultural Programs Associate; and Abdul Kanu, Development & Grants Associate.