Washington, DC, December 11 (ANI): US Representative Bill Huizenga has underscored the expanding economic and strategic scope of the India–US relationship, describing India as “one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world” and highlighting growing interest among American businesses in the Indian market.
Speaking at the House Foreign Affairs South and Central Asia Subcommittee hearing titled “The US-India Strategic Partnership: Securing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific,” Huizenga said American companies are eager to engage with India on a level playing field. He noted that a potential new trade deal under President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi would help advance bilateral commercial goals.
Huizenga also emphasised the broader strategic importance of closer cooperation between Washington and New Delhi. He said the combined economic and geopolitical weight of the world’s largest economy and the soon-to-be third-largest economy would be crucial in counterbalancing China and preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific.
While the hearing was underway in Washington, parallel discussions were taking place in New Delhi. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met US Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker on Tuesday, as part of ongoing efforts to translate the leaders’ strategic vision into concrete progress. Hooker is on a five-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), both sides welcomed the “steady progress” achieved through established dialogue mechanisms and agreed to accelerate work under the COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce and Technology) agenda. The consultations covered trade and investment, defence cooperation, the TRUST initiative, civil nuclear energy, emerging technologies, critical minerals, and trusted supply chains.
Launched in February, the TRUST (Transforming Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology) initiative seeks to enhance collaboration in secure supply chains, innovation, and critical technologies, including AI and semiconductors.
The US Embassy said the meeting helped advance priorities outlined by Trump and Modi earlier this year, adding that it aimed to enhance US security, competitiveness, and job creation while supporting India’s long-term goals. The MEA described the talks as a comprehensive review of the India–US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, reaffirming the shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
During Modi’s visit to Washington in February, the two countries announced wide-ranging deliverables, including increased Indian imports of American oil, gas, and defence platforms. They also reiterated their goal of achieving USD 500 billion in annual bilateral trade by 2030.
The US Embassy noted that Under Secretary Hooker stressed Washington’s intention to deepen cooperation in defence, energy, technology, space, and trusted supply chains, and expressed appreciation for continued partnership to advance shared priorities.
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