The United States sees India as a “vital strategic partner” and does not place New Delhi and Islamabad on the same level, said Ami Bera, the longest-serving Indian American in the US Congress. Bera and Republican lawmaker Joe Wilson introduced a bipartisan resolution that highlights the long-term value of India-US cooperation across defence, technology, trade, education, and counterterrorism.
The move comes during a tense phase in bilateral ties. President Donald Trump recently imposed steep 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods, including a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff and another 25 per cent penalty linked to India’s Russian oil imports. Bera admitted that Trump’s tariff decisions and stricter immigration rules have strained the relationship. However, he stressed that US strategy toward India has remained consistent for three decades.
Bera said the resolution aims to send a united message from both parties. He has secured nearly 30 co-signers, split evenly between Democrats and Republicans. He also criticised Trump advisers like Peter Navarro for pushing policies that hurt high-skilled immigration and risk driving talent and investment toward India’s fast-growing market.
Bera noted that US engagement with Pakistan cannot match its partnership with India. He said American companies continue to invest billions in India, strengthening defence and economic cooperation.
