The US senator John McCain said that India is an important strategic partner of United States and can play a larger role in South Asia to maintain peace and security which is the prime necessity in the region. Talking to media in New Delhi on Thursday McCain said, he was impressed by the improving situation in Kashmir.Referring to agitation going on in New Delhi, he said the democracy in India is strong and the Indian government values the wish of the people. He expressed his country's commitment to closely work together on tackling the menace of terrorism. Talking about Pakistan, he said the country has emerged successful in restoring democracy and hoped that it will overcome its internal problems. McCain, who was a Republican presidential candidate against Barack Obama is currently on a visit to India. He earlier visited Laddakh.