Republican Co-Chair to Congressional Caucus on India meets Nirupama Rao

WASHINGTON: Newly selected Republican Co-Chair to the Congressional Caucus on India Congressman Peter Roskam today met Indian Ambassador to the US Nirupama Rao and discussed the ties between the two countries.

Roskam and Rao discussed the present state of India-US relations during the meeting held at the Capitol Hill here.

Rao informed him about the recent developments in the ties, which she described as "multidimensional", and shared India's perspective on regional and global issues of common interest.

They agreed that the India-US strategic partnership derived much of its strength from the strong support it enjoyed across the political spectrum in both countries.

They also praised the role played by the Indian-American community in taking this relationship forward.

This was Roskam's first meeting with Rao after becoming co-chair of the Congressional Caucus. Roskam is visiting India next week as part of a Congressional delegation.

Describing India as an "incredibly dynamic country", Roskam spoke warmly about the Indian friends he had known since his childhood.

He said there were shared values and complementarities between India and the US and a broad spectrum of opportunities, including in the economic sector, for the two countries to collaborate.

Rao gave an overview of the current economic outlook of India and agreed with Roskam about the bright prospects for business and economic cooperation between the two countries.

Roskam represents the 6th District of Illinois and is serving his fourth term as Representative. He is a member of the House Ways and Means Committee.

As the Majority Chief Deputy Whip, he is the fourth- ranking Republican leader in the House of Representatives.