DEEPENING, MATURING, EXPANDING, INDIA AND US FORGE CLOSER BONDS

Despite challenges, he found a consistent thread of positivity in these interactions, reinforcing his belief that the U.S.-India partnership would endure through crises and continue to progress.

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In a farewell ceremony held at the India House, India's Loutgoing Ambassador to at the India House, India's Loutgoing Ambassador to the United States, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, highlighted the deepening and maturing relationship between the two largest democracies. The 61-year-old Sandhu, who is set to retire later this month after over 35 years in the foreign service, expressed that the India-U.S. relationship has expanded across various domains, including technology, trade, defense, space, healthcare, education, skilling, and people-to-people connections.

During his tenure as India's Ambassador to the U.S., Sandhu emphasized the significant progress made in the last decade, noting the transformation that occurred in the bilateral ties. He recounted challenges faced during his first exposure to U.S.-India relations, particularly following India's nuclear tests in 1998, which resulted in sanctions. Sandhu acknowledged the role of the U.S. Congress in laying the foundation for the relationship, crediting it as a pioneer.

Sandhu's proactive engagement with the U.S. Congress was highlighted, noting that he met with over 300 Congressmen and around 75 Senators during his term. He expressed optimism about the enduring nature of the U.S.-India partnership, emphasizing that the two countries have yet to explore the full potential of their relationship.

Senator Mark Warner, Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, praised Sandhu for his efforts in building bilateral ties, expressing hope for his continued public service. John Podesta, senior advisor to the president for clean energy innovation and implementation, acknowledged the ambassador's role in strengthening the relationship.