With the introduction of bill HR 2123, the American lawmakers seek to enhance the strategic relationship between the US and India
A new legislation, HR 2123, introduced this week would let India acquire ‘NATO Ally’ status, if sanctioned. The bill seeks to take forward the US-India strategic relationship for the purpose of Arms Export Control Act.
According to the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), HR 2123 is meant to prioritize the defense sales to India. The strategic partnership forum stated that the bill would strengthen national security. Additionally, it would help ensure full alignment between the Department of Defense and the Department of State.
“India is the world’s largest democracy, pillar of stability in the region, showing strong commitments to export control policies,” said Congressman Joe Wilson. He is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Wilson further expressed his gratitude towards Dr. Mukesh Aghi for supporting the bill and leading the USISPF.
The bill was introduced on April 8 in the House of Representatives by a group of American lawmakers. The original co-sponsor of the legislation is Congressman Ami Bera. He is the longest serving Indian-American in the US Congress.
Bera was associated with the House India Caucus Co-Chairs, Congressmen George Holding and Brad Sherman. The lawmakers also included Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and Congressman Ted Yoho.
USISPF chairman John Chambers hopes for a major breakthrough for the US-India defense relationship with the enactment of HR 2123. “I support this move because it would ultimately further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries,” said the chairman.
