India’s External Affairs Minister Draws Inspirational Parallels for India-US Relations: A Journey to the Moon and Beyond
01-10-2023 : In a symbolic and optimistic address to the Indian diaspora, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar drew parallels between the evolving India-US relationship and the ambitious aspirations of India’s space program. Speaking at the ‘Colors of Friendship’ event held at India House in Washington, DC, Jaishankar expressed his belief that the strong and growing ties between the two nations have the potential to reach new heights, much like India’s Chandrayaan mission, which aimed for the moon and beyond.
Jaishankar emphasized that both the United States and India view each other as desirable, optimal, and comfortable partners, highlighting the deepening bond between the two nations. He emphasized that the current state of the relationship is at an all-time high, but he also conveyed the sentiment that there is much more to come.
Using an American expression, Jaishankar declared, “You ain’t seen anything yet.” He conveyed his conviction that the India-US partnership is poised to evolve into new dimensions and explore uncharted territories in their cooperation.
The minister stressed that the more the two countries engage with each other, the more they discover their ability to work together, explore new domains, and achieve common goals. He shared these thoughts while standing on the lawns of the official residence of India’s Ambassador to the United States, Taranjit Singh Sandhu.
Jaishankar emphasized that while countries engage in various aspects of international relations, including economic, political, military, and cultural exchanges, it’s the deep human bonding between India and the United States that sets their relationship apart. This profound connection, he noted, is the defining characteristic of their partnership.
Expressing the limitless potential of the India-US relationship, Jaishankar stated, “There are no words that can capture it.” He looked ahead with hope and optimism, envisioning a horizon filled with fantastic possibilities. He credited the Indian diaspora as a vital force that would contribute to realizing these opportunities.
Reflecting on his early years as a diplomat in the 1980s, Jaishankar recalled the challenges he faced when explaining his background and the need to introduce and define India’s identity. He also reminisced about the difficulties of gaining access to certain rooms in the US Congress during those times.
The event was attended by prominent Indian-origin officials in the Joe Biden administration, including US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, Deputy Secretary of State Richard Verma, President’s domestic policy adviser Neera Tanden, and Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy Dr. Rahul Gupta, underscoring the significance of the Indian diaspora’s role in strengthening India-US ties.
