The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) hosted an event on the U.S. Capitol that highlighted the strengthening strategic partnerships and diaspora engagement between the United States and India.
The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) organized the U.S.-India Summit and Capitol Hill Legislative Day on July 15, 2025, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. This significant event aimed to highlight the deepening ties between the two nations, gathering U.S. and Indian American lawmakers alongside other influential figures.
Throughout the day, nearly 150 delegates from over 20 states interacted with more than 120 elected officials. The discussions covered various policy areas, including the U.S.-India partnership, the Quad and I2U2 alliances, trade, security, and investment opportunities, as well as immigration reform, counterterrorism, and religious tolerance.
India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Kwatra, lauded FIIDS for its role in strengthening bilateral ties. He highlighted the Indian diaspora’s role as a ‘living bridge’ connecting both societies and economies. Ambassador Kwatra also commended Congressman Shri Thanedar for his support of U.S.-India relations.
Rep. Shri Thanedar (MI-13) underscored the importance of political engagement within the Indian American community. He encouraged deeper civic participation to enhance the community’s influence, asserting that Indian Americans still lack the political power they deserve. He stressed the crucial role immigrants play in maintaining America’s innovation leadership.
FIIDS President Khanderao Kand clarified the summit’s purpose, emphasizing that the meetings with lawmakers were substantive. Delegates discussed critical issues such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, Indo-Pacific security, and comprehensive immigration reforms, including the reintroduction of the EAGLE Act.
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-8) highlighted the expanding dimensions of the U.S.-India relationship, describing it as ‘stronger, deeper, and wider’ across trade, security, and people-to-people connections. He noted the impressive growth in bilateral trade, which increased from $20 billion in 2000 to over $200 billion today, and affirmed the relationship’s bipartisan support.
Congressman Ro Khanna (CA-17) emphasized the significance of sustained political engagement to develop influence over time. He praised Kand and FIIDS for advancing shared causes and recalled the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans’ firm support for India’s right to self-defense following the Pahalgam attacks.
Congressman Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) stressed the need to empower the next generation of Indian Americans. He commended FIIDS for encouraging young individuals to connect with their cultural roots while engaging in American civic life. He also mentioned the existence of a policy program for Indian American students.
Congressman Andy Barr (KY-6) reaffirmed his commitment to advancing U.S.-India strategic cooperation within the Quad framework. He humorously suggested replacing Scotch whisky with Kentucky bourbon in trade deals with India, pairing well with Indian spicy cuisine.
Congressman Sanford Bishop from Georgia’s second district highlighted the influence of India’s independence struggle on the U.S. Civil Rights Movement and emphasized Georgia’s economic ties with India.
Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-28), a member of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, addressed challenges facing the Indian American community, such as visa delays and restrictions on international students. She vowed to advocate for increased educational opportunities and visa reforms.
Congressman Robert P. Bresnahan (PA-8) discussed his work on emerging technologies and collaboration with Indian entrepreneurs in agriculture. He expressed support for ongoing innovation within U.S.-India relations.
Congressman Randy Fine (FL-6), the first Republican Jewish member elected from his district, shared his connection to India and spotlighted shared values between Indian and Jewish communities. He advocated for legal immigration reforms and reinforced strong U.S.-India ties.
Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) acknowledged the vibrant Indian American community in his district and emphasized the bilateral relationship’s significance to national, economic, and domestic security. He also called for increased visa allocations and comprehensive immigration reform.
Congressman Jonathan Jackson (IL-1) recognized the parallels between Indian and American civil rights histories, acknowledging the impact of Mahatma Gandhi’s Satyagraha movement on the American Civil Rights Movement.
Other attendees, including Congressmen Mark Harris (NC-8), David Taylor (OH-2), Nate Moron (TX-1), and several other legislators, voiced their support for the U.S.-India partnership. Narasimha Koppula of FIIDS concluded the event by delivering the vote of thanks.
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