Cleveland (US), Jul 19 (IANS): The Republican Party in its manifesto released just ahead of its National Convention has affirmed India as its "geopolitical ally" and strategic trading partner and also urged protection for followers of different faiths.

The 58-page manifesto also welcomed stronger ties with India, including in the sphere of security, and praised the contributions of the large Indian-American community.

"We welcome a stronger relationship with the world's largest democracy, India, both economic and cultural, as well as in terms of national security... We hereby affirm and declare that India is our geopolitical ally and a strategic trading partner," the manifesto said.

The Republican Party in the manifesto also encouraged India to permit greater foreign investment and trade.

"We urge protection for adherents of all India's religions. Both as Republicans and as Americans, we note with pride the contributions to this country that are being made by our fellow citizens of Indian ancestry," it added.

The three-day convention began on Monday night in Cleveland, Ohio, with some 5,000 delegates representing the country's 50 states, the District of Colombia and five US territories who will decide the party's presumptive presidential nominee Donald Trump's future as the leader of the country.

Among the speakers were the business mogul's wife Melania whose speech was accused of copying First Lady Michelle Obama's speech at the 2008 Democratic Convention.