Mumbai: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated the need for zero tolerance against terrorism while reiterating his commitment to further strengthen Indo-US ties. Speaking at a function to mark the 250th anniversary of America’s independence in Mumbai, he said India hopes that its partners will also adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, his wife, members of the US Congressional delegation and other officials were present at the ceremony. Jaishankar said Mumbai occupies a special significance in the relationship between India and the US. Apart from being the financial capital of the country, the city is also a major center of film, technology, research, entrepreneurship and culture.
Mumbai’s old association with the US
Jaishankar said the relationship between Mumbai and the US started with the ice trade in the old days. Today this relationship is at the heart of financial, commercial and technical cooperation. He underlined the long historical ties between the two countries, referring to Swami Vivekananda’s visit to Chicago, the spread of jazz music in Mumbai and the presence of American companies in the city.
The External Affairs Minister said that many Americans had supported India’s freedom struggle. After independence, the partnership between the two countries in infrastructure, education, food and agriculture sector and technology contributed to India’s development. At the same time, Indian talent and skills have played a crucial role in shaping America’s tech sector.
Increased cooperation in defence, energy and technology
Jaishankar said the scope of the India-US partnership has grown steadily over the last few decades. The Quad, Mission 500, Pax Silica and FORGE initiatives are prime examples of cooperation between the two countries. He also noted the growing cooperation in the areas of energy, defence and civil aviation.
He said that in the changing global order, it is natural for countries to pursue their national interests. At such times, expanding areas of shared interests and cooperation between India and the US is crucial for deepening bilateral relations. There are new opportunities in front of both countries in the fields of trade, investment, technology and energy.
Mention of 26/11 attack, tough stance on terrorism
Referring to the 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai, Jaishankar said six American citizens were also killed during the attack. He thanked Rubio for paying tribute at the 26/11 memorial at the Taj Hotel.
Jaishankar also welcomed the US administration’s decision to extradite Tahawwur Hussain Rana. He said India is clear about its right to defend itself against terrorism and expects its partners to not be lenient towards terrorism.
Emphasis on Peace and Stability in the Indo-Pacific
The External Affairs Minister said that India and the US have a common interest in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Regular interactions and identification of shared priorities can pave the way for the relationship between the two countries to move forward.
In his concluding remarks, Jaishankar congratulated the US on the 250th anniversary of its independence and reiterated its commitment to take forward the India-US strategic partnership.
[DD news]