“The visit of the US Congressional delegation to India during the Independence Day celebration underscores the growing importance of US-India relations, while reflecting the role growing role of Indian Americans in American politics. The United States seeks to expand economic cooperation, taking advantage of India’s strong democracy and growth trajectory. Both nations aspire to strengthen their strategic and defense alliances, especially in the Indo-Pacific area. Without a doubt, managing the competitive dynamics with China will also be a focal point.” rishi kumarwho is running as the 2024 Democratic candidate for the US House of Representatives from California, which is the state Khanna also represents, he told Times of India.
Kumar, who closely follows the discussions the congressional delegation is having in India, added that the fact that US lawmakers are led by Rep. Khanna and another Indian-American congressman shree thanedar from Michigan is also a member of the group; it will serve as a critical opportunity to strengthen collaborations across numerous sectors. “This growing partnership can boost regional economic growth and peace, positioning India as a critical long-term ally for the US,” said Kumar, who was an elected member of the Saratoga city council.
The growing popularity of the game in the US has set the stage for cricket diplomacy, which is also best spearheaded by Indian-American congressmen, Kumar opines. “The debut of Major League Cricket and the upcoming Cricket World Cup in India would be an interesting topic of discussion,” he said.
Kumar, who previously ran for US Congress from Silicon Valley’s CA-16 district in November 2022; believes that a solution to the perceived imbalance in the US-China economic interaction could lie in a rejuvenated US-India economic alliance; an issue that is likely to come up for debate during interactions by the Indian Congress delegation, which is led by Khanna, Co-Chair of the Indian Congress Caucus.
“Engaging with India becomes crucial to counter China’s drive towards de-dollarization in the region. Arguably, the US needs a comprehensive strategy that not only protects its interests, but also contributes to stability and inclusiveness in the global financial system. With India poised to become one of the largest economies in the world; deepening ties with India could offer immense benefits to the US, given their shared values and goals and flourishing democracies,” Kumar said.