Several members of the US Congress used India’s 80th Independence Day on August 15 to recognize the growing importance of the India-US relationship and highlight the contributions of Indian Americans across the United States.
Lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties shared messages emphasizing cooperation between the two countries, while also acknowledging the Indian American community’s role in strengthening economic, cultural and technological ties. The White House, however, did not release a public message marking the occasion.
Representative Adam Smith of Washington said the relationship between New Delhi and Washington has become increasingly significant. He described India and the United States as two major global powers capable of working together to promote greater peace, prosperity and stability.
Smith also recognized the Indian American community in the Puget Sound region, pointing to its contributions in areas including education, government, business, innovation and technology.
Representative Kim Schrier, also from Washington, similarly praised Indian Americans in the state. She said the community plays an important role in Washington’s educational, cultural and economic landscape, underscoring its influence well beyond the Indian American population itself.
Republican Representative Dusty Johnson of South Dakota also offered strong praise for India. He described the country as stable, forward-looking, increasingly prosperous and continuing to grow. Johnson added that the United States benefits from its relationship with India as well as from the contributions of more than 5 million Indian Americans living across the country.
Representative Michael Baumgartner of Washington connected the bilateral relationship to broader international security. Having visited India last year, he said strong relations between the two countries are important for global peace and stability. He pointed to India and the United States as the world’s two largest democracies, while noting their diverse populations and religious traditions.
Representatives Suzan DelBene and Marilyn Strickland, both from Washington, also issued messages recognizing the occasion. DelBene highlighted the Indian American community’s impact on the regional economy and innovation, while Strickland praised India’s emphasis on innovation, education and community development.
The bipartisan nature of the messages stood out as Democrats and Republicans alike recognized the value of closer relations with India. Their statements also reflected the growing visibility and influence of the Indian American community in American public life.
Together, the messages presented India as an important democratic partner and highlighted the people-to-people connections that continue to support the broader relationship. The recognition from lawmakers across party lines signals continued interest in strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
