India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, highlighted the transformative impact of economic and policy changes over the past decade on India-US relations. Speaking at the ‘Capital Hill Summit 2026’ in Washington, Kwatra noted that reforms initiated since 2014 have significantly strengthened trade, investment, and strategic cooperation between the two nations.
Addressing the event organized by the American-India Friendship Council, Kwatra emphasized the substantial economic changes underway in India. He explained that rapid economic development and reforms have reinforced global partnerships, enabling India and the US to expand their cooperation into new areas. The ambassador also pointed out that both countries are working towards a target of increasing bilateral trade to $500 billion by 2030, up from the current level of approximately $220 billion. Furthermore, partnerships in technology, energy, and manufacturing are progressing swiftly.
In terms of defense collaboration, Kwatra highlighted the growing military ties between India and the US. India has become the largest foreign user of several critical American defense platforms, he noted. Both nations’ armed forces are collaborating at various levels to address shared security challenges, and coordination is intensifying to maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Kwatra also touched upon new opportunities for collaboration in the civil nuclear energy sector, citing the implementation of the SHANTI Act, which opens new avenues for private companies in this field. This development is expected to further bolster technical and industrial cooperation between India and the US. He referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address to the US Congress, emphasizing that India and the US are not just strategic partners but also natural allies rooted in shared democratic values.
The summit saw participation from prominent US lawmakers, including Representatives Ro Khanna, Deborah Ross, Tim Moore, and Senator Steve Daines. Discussions at the event focused on the future of India-US relations, global security, and economic cooperation. Experts believe that in the coming years, the partnership between the two countries could play a pivotal role in global politics and trade.