U.S. Lawmakers Voice Bipartisan Support for Stronger India Ties Despite Trade Frictions

WASHINGTON — U.S. lawmakers from both parties voiced strong support for deeper ties with India on security, trade, and global stability, even as some pointed to ongoing tensions over tariffs and policy differences.

Speaking at an exhibition on the human cost of terrorism hosted by the Indian Embassy on Capitol Hill, members of Congress described India as a key strategic partner and emphasized shared democratic values and cooperation in tackling global challenges, particularly terrorism.

Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi said the relationship “is not as strong as it should be,” citing what he called a more “transactional” dynamic and the impact of tariffs. Still, he expressed optimism that ties “should transcend parties… and… rise to new heights over time.”

Krishnamoorthi also highlighted common ground between the two countries. “Our two countries… share so much in common,” he said, pointing to commitments to freedom, equality, and a rules-based international order.

Rep. Dave Taylor described India as “a hugely important ally of the United States,” calling for more coordinated policies to address global threats, including terrorism.

Rep. Bill Huizenga, who chairs the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on South and Central Asia, said India plays a critical role “both economically, strategically,” noting cooperation in areas such as counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and maritime security.

Huizenga also underscored the importance of maintaining open sea lanes, an area where India’s role continues to grow.

Rep. Rich McCormick pointed to the long-term potential of the partnership, saying the “synergy between our two countries” could help drive peace and economic prosperity globally.

Rep. Ro Khanna, co-chair of the Congressional India Caucus, said the relationship has become increasingly important in addressing transnational threats.

“Terrorism isn’t just contained to one region… it spreads and threatens freedom around the world,” Khanna said, calling for deeper intelligence sharing and defense cooperation.

Rep. Jonathan Jackson linked the partnership to broader economic challenges, noting that global instability affects both countries.

“The price of fuel, the price of food… affects us all,” he said, warning that conflict and terrorism are increasingly global in scope.

India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, said the turnout at the event reflected broad bipartisan support for the relationship.

“Congressmen… represent the voice of the people,” he said, adding that their engagement helps shape policy and reinforces efforts to combat terrorism.

Kwatra said the event underscored the need for countries to “come together, need to work together, and… act together” in addressing global challenges.

Rep. Brad Sherman, a longtime supporter of closer India ties, acknowledged that the relationship has been “strained by the outrageous tariffs,” but expressed hope for expanding economic engagement.

Lawmakers said that while differences remain, they do not overshadow the broader trajectory of the partnership.

Rep. April McClain Delaney described it as “a long, strong relationship,” rooted in deep people-to-people ties, including contributions from the Indian diaspora.

“I think there’s just such an incredible exchange between our countries,” she said.

Rep. Jamie Raskin called for cooperation grounded in international law, while Rep. Julie Johnson emphasized maintaining democratic alignment in confronting global challenges.

Lawmakers said collaboration on counterterrorism, defense, and trade will remain central as both countries navigate an increasingly uncertain global environment. (Source: IANS)