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India Caucus  India’s importance as an ally in Asia and worldwide cannot be overstated. With a population exceeding one billion, India has a broad array of ethnic groups, religions, lifestyles, and socio-economic statuses coexisting within its borders. Although many challenges face the nation, the people of India are committed to working out solutions together through the democratic process. The United States has enjoyed a close relationship with India historically, and wants to strengthen our ties as we look to a globalized future. The possibilities and benefits of Indo-American collaboration make a compelling case for increased cooperation. From issues relating to climate change to geopolitics or cultural exchange, a strong relationship with India is critical to the United States. Congressman McDermott is the co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans – the largest country caucus in the House of Representatives, with 154 members. By leading the caucus, he promotes understanding of the issues facing India, the world’s largest democracy, and works to foster dialogue between India and the United States on issues of mutual importance. The India caucus is the major forum in the House of Representatives for those wishing to learn about or work on efforts relating to India.
- Related Press Releases and Speeches
Rep. McDermott, India Caucus Co-Chair, Introduces U.S. – India Interparliamentary Legislation May 19, 2009 Rep. Jim McDermott, one of the founders and current co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, today introduced the U.S.- India Interparliamentary Exchange Act of 2009, HR 2468. Coming shortly after an historic election in India over the weekend, McDermott said his legislation is intended to further strengthen and unite the world’s oldest and the world’s largest Democracies. “India is one of our most important allies and creating an exchange program between Members of the U.S. Congress and Representatives of India’s Parliament will only deepen our ties and lead to greater understanding between our countries,” Rep. McDermott said. “Understanding among nations is the path to stability, security and peace in the world.” While the legislation was being prepared over the last two months, McDermott said he decided to introduce it now as a congratulatory note to India after its historic elections that concluded over the weekend. “I’ve known Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh for many years and consider him to be a close friend, and this legislation is meant to begin a new chapter in the relationship between our nations,” McDermott said. The bill is modeled after the existing U.S. – Japan Legislative Exchange Program, which Rep. McDermott has chaired since its formation by then Speaker Thomas S. Foley in the early 1990s. Rep. McDermott recently was reappointed co-chair by Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. The U.S.- India Interparliamentary Exchange Act of 2009 calls for an annual meeting between political leaders from both countries, “…for discussion of common issues in the interest of relations between the United States and India.” A copy of the legislation is attached in. PDF format.
Letter in Response to the Mumbai Attacks Dr. Manmohan Singh Dear Prime Minister Singh: Today, we are all people of India. As a close friend and strong supporter, let me extend my sincere condolences t you and the people of India, especially the families of the victims, in the wake of the Mumbai attacks. The attacks against civilians at multiple locations throughout Mumbai are criminal acts, and it is my sincere hope that an investigation will quickly identify all the perpetrators and bring them to justice. Following The Rule of Law is how India can show the world the real strength of Democracy. I can attest that the U.S. already has offered the services of the FBI to assist in its ongoing investigation, and I pledge my personal support in any way that I can. India has been exemplary in its commitment to freedom and tolerance, and I urge India to remain calm during this difficult period, and let the evidence uncovered during the investigation lead to those responsible. Tragedy has united the world and its nations will help India heal these wounds. On behalf of my colleagues in the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, my constituents, and the American people, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Sincerely,
Jim McDermott
Related Press Releases and Speeches Rep. McDermott, India Caucus Co-Chair, Introduces U.S. – India Interparliamentary Legislation Rep. McDermott Announces Support for HR 1886 India Caucus Co-Chair Co-Sponsors PEACE Act Rep. McDermott Leads House Congressional Action on India Resolution
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