In a significant reflection on the evolving Indo-US relationship, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, India’s Ambassador to the United States, highlighted the transformative economic and policy changes in India over the last decade that have charted a new course for bilateral ties. Speaking at the ‘Capital Hill Summit 2026’ in Washington, he noted that reforms initiated post-2014 have considerably strengthened trade, investment, and strategic cooperation between the two nations.
During the event organized by the US-India Friendship Council, Kwatra emphasized the substantial economic transformation underway in India. He articulated that the rapid economic growth and reforms have not only reinforced global partnerships but have also expanded the scope of collaboration between India and the US across diverse new sectors.
Keen on enhancing economic engagement, the ambassador revealed that both countries aim to elevate bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, a significant increase from the current $220 billion. He underscored the accelerating partnerships in technology, energy, and manufacturing sectors, which are pivotal areas of focus for both nations.
Kwatra also shed light on the heightened defense and security collaboration, noting India’s status as the largest foreign user of several key US defense platforms. He indicated that joint efforts between the two nations’ armed forces are ongoing to address shared security challenges. Furthermore, he pointed out the growing coordination in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Highlighting potential growth areas, Kwatra spoke of the opportunities in civilian nuclear energy cooperation, particularly following the implementation of the SHANTI Act, which paves the way for private sector collaborations. He referenced Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the US Congress, stressing that India and the US are not only strategic partners but also natural allies bound by shared democratic values. The summit, which saw the presence of US lawmakers such as Ro Khanna, Deborah Ross, Tim Moore, and Senator Steve Daines, also facilitated discussions on the future of India-US ties, global security, and economic cooperation, with experts suggesting that the partnership will play a crucial role in global politics and trade in the coming years.