India is ready to deepen its trade and cultural relations with China, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh declared Monday.

Speaking from the Red Fort on the country's 59th independence day, Singh pointed out that India had "a centuries old relationship" with China, which is New Delhi's largest neighbour.

He said both countries had "learnt a lot and imbibed a lot" from their bilateral relationship.

"We are today willing and ready to deepen our trade and cultural relations with China for the benefit of the two nations.

"The agreement arrived at between our two countries in April has paved the way for a closer relationship."

Singh said India would also cement its relations with the US while maintaining and deepening its friendship with its old friend Russia.

"My visit to the US has been a major step in promoting friendship with that country. By deepening our economic and technological relations, we will be accelerating our own growth.

"Simultaneously, our two democracies can work together to strengthen democracy in the world.

"Russia is an old friend who has helped us in difficult times. We will deepen our friendly relations with Russia."

He said India also wished to strengthen its ties with the countries of Southeast Asia.

"The recently concluded trade agreement with Singapore is a major step in improving our economic engagement with the region," he said. "We will be entering into many more such agreements in future."

The prime minister also greeted the people of Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives and Myanmar and said India was "willing to work together with them" for development and peace.

-- (IANS)