AHMEDABAD: Emphasising that the US military had been "rebuilt" and that Washington was quickly revitalising its alliances and friendships all around the world, US President Donald Trump on Monday referred to India-US land, air and sea military exercise while announcing a joint commitment to a "free and open" the Indo-Pacific."It is faith in free society, confidence in your own people, your trust in your own citizens and respect for dignity of every person that makes the US and India such a natural, beautiful and enduring friendship," Trump said in his speech at Motera In fulsome praise, Trump said, "The story of the Indian nation is a tale of astounding progress and a miracle of democracy, extraordinary diversity and above all a strong and noble people. India gives hope to all of humanity. It has become an economic giant, largest democracy and one of the most amazing nations anywhere in the world."Referring to PM Modi's humble beginnings, he cited him as living proof of what Indians could achieve through hard work. Trump said Modi was a leader who worked for India night and day and who he was proud to call his "true friend"."We will always remember this remarkable hospitality. From this day on, India will hold a special place in our hearts," Trump said. Referring to the PM, he said, "Everybody loves him but I will tell you this, he is very tough" and chuckled at his observation, adding Modi won a landslide in the largest democratic election to be held anywhere in the world.The speech came against the backdrop of criticism of India over alleged rise of intolerance and erosion of inter-faith amity. But Trump showed no sign that the charges had resonated with him yet as he launched into fulsome praise for "one great Indian nation" despite diversity of faiths and beliefs. "Your unity is an inspiration to the world," he said."All Indians - Hindus, Muslims, Christians and Jews, rich and poor - must take pride in glories of the past, and a bright future," the American president said. Emphasising India's democratic traditions, he said there was a difference between a nation that rose by coercion and one that rose by setting people free, and added that India would soon be home to the biggest middle class anywhere.Trump struck an emotional connect when he expressed warm approval for people of Indian origin in the US who he said were contributing to American life in every field. "They are titans of business, the biggest, the best, pioneers of science, masters of arts," he said.The president took on opposition at home and spelt out why he thought there was great potential in India-US ties, and said US unemployment was low and the economy was booming. "A booming America is a great thing for the world," he said, adding that he had shown how reduced taxes and regulatory burdens had worked and that Modi was also carrying out reforms at a record pace.