New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has described the Indian diaspora in the United States as a “living bridge” that has played a major role in deepening ties between New Delhi and Washington across sectors ranging from technology and medicine to public service and entrepreneurship.
Speaking at America’s 250th Independence Day reception hosted at the US Embassy in New Delhi, he said that “The Indian diaspora in the United States has contributed enormously to American society across technology, academia, medicine, entrepreneurship, and public service. It has helped build political understanding between our two nations and remains a living bridge”.
He also stressed the importance of counterterrorism cooperation between New Delhi and Washington amid growing global security challenges. “India and the United States have a strong interest in combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We must always be clear about zero tolerance for terrorism. And that is why our counterterrorism cooperation is so important,” he said.
Jaishankar also said US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to India reflected the growing importance of bilateral ties and the expanding role of strategic platforms such as the Quad. “This visit, Secretary Rubio, your first, highlights the significance of our ties in contemporary times. It focuses on the value of a strong bilateral relationship and the beneficial contribution of the Quad,” Jaishankar said.
He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump had laid out a roadmap last year for advancing the partnership in a way that serves both countries as well as the broader global good.
“This agreement, if done right, will strengthen supply chains, catalyse new investments, and drive sustained inclusive growth, bringing tangible benefits to industries, workers, and economies," he said.