India, US need to come closer together as allies: McCormick

US Congressman Rich McCormick speaks to The Sunday Guardian.

- MANISH CHAND

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to the United States elevated the India-US strategic partnership to new heights and culminated in the forging of a transformational technology-driven partnership. In this freewheeling interview in Washington DC, US Representative Rich McCormick highlights the importance of building stronger IndiaUS relations for the benefit of the two countries and to counter China's aggressive actions. McCormick, a member of the Republican Party who represents Georgia's 6th congressional district in the US House of Representatives, also speaks about a bipartisan resolution that seeks to help protect India's sovereignty in Arunachal Pradesh.

Q: In his speech to the US Congress, PM Modi indirectly critiqued China and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China was an important topic of discussion between PM Modi and US President Joe Biden. How do you look at the US' relations with China, compared to the US' relations with India?

A: Over the next 10 to 20 years, India will witness a rise in its GDP from around two and a half trillion dollars to become the world's third-largest economy. Unlike countries such as China, who have achieved their economic growth through questionable means, I think India is taking the right path.

They are achieving it through hard work and building strong relationships. They are not pressuring or acting imperialistic like China. Therefore, it is crucial that we nurture the relationship between the US and India, as India serves as our most strategically important ally in that region. With a population of 1.47 billion, they contribute hard work, creativity, jobs, and immigration-all essential elements needed to strengthen this relationship for the future.