To deepen collaboration in defense, trade, and technology, the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), in partnership with the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, hosted a strategic briefing on March 26, 2025, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

The briefing brought together 11 Members of Congress, including Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. Rich McCormick (GA-07) and Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17); Co-Vice Chair Rep. Marc Veasey (TX-33); as well as Reps. Jim Costa (CA-21), Glenn Grothman (WI-6), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-8), Ed Case (HI-1), Kim Schrier (WA-8), Janelle Bynum (OR-5), Derek Tran (CA-45), and Herb Conaway (NJ-3).

In a statement, USISPF President and CEO Mukesh Aghi emphasized the bipartisan significance of the U.S.-India relationship, stating past presidents have described this as the most important strategic partnership of the 21st century. 

“Our event with Members of Congress reflects both the bipartisan nature and strategic heft that the relationship with New Delhi has been given, especially in these venerated halls of Congress and in policy-making discourse.”

Aghi also underscored the sustained strategic focus in the Indo-Pacific region, with both nations committed to enhancing cooperation through key initiatives like the Quad, I2U2, and IMEC.

Indian Ambassador to the U.S. Vinay Kwatra, reaffirmed the strength of the bilateral partnership, noting that the foundations of the India-U.S. relationship are robust, backed by strong bipartisan support in Congress. 

“We have set an ambitious agenda across defense, trade, technology, science, education, and people-to-people ties. We are committed to grow and expand this relationship into new territories and new areas, including $500 billion in trade in the coming years,” he added.

Rep. McCormick echoed this sentiment, calling India a vital partner in trade and defense. As Co-Chair of the India and Indian-American Caucus, Rep. McCormick noted he sees firsthand how the Indian-American community embodies the values of the American dream. 

“I’m committed to building mutual cooperation between our two nations in the years to come while advocating for the Indian-American diaspora here at home,” he added. “I appreciate the work the U.S.- India Strategic Partnership Forum does and enjoyed being part of their briefing today.”

Rep. Khanna also reinforced the partnership’s strategic significance, stating, “We had a meaningful discussion on the importance of this strategic alliance and reaffirmed our shared commitment to advancing national security, economic prosperity, and technological innovation.”

Looking ahead, USISPF plans to host additional congressional discussions and district visits throughout 2025. The next U.S.-India Trade Staff briefing is scheduled for April 22 on Capitol Hill. 

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