Secretary Marco Rubio, Mrs. Rubio, Chairman Jason Smith and members of the CODEL, Foreign Secretary, Ambassador Sergio Gor, dear Friends,
It’s a real pleasure to join you all in Mumbai at the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of American Independence. I’m glad that Secretary Rubio has come here, because Mumbai has both a special significance for India and a special place in our ties with the United States.
Mumbai is, of course, India’s financial capital. But it is very much more than that. Bollywood is an integral element of its personality. Mumbai is a centre of learning and a hub for research and for technology. Its traditions of entrepreneurship are deeply linked to the trade that its ports service. The ethos of this city has many expressions, be it in sports or culture, media or music. Most of all, this is a cosmopolitan city that serves as a gateway to the world. And it is one that is deeply invested in our relationship with the United States. Therefore, Secretary Rubio, it is particularly fitting that you celebrate this important anniversary here in Mumbai.
Now, Mumbai’s connect with America started, some of you would be aware, with what was called the ice trade, trading in ice. Today, it is very much at the heart of our financial, commercial and technology ties. There is so much about the past that can be cited in that regard: that Swami Vivekananda set out from here on his famous journey to Chicago, that Leon Abbey brought jazz to this city – in fact, Secretary, to the very hotel where you are staying – that General Electric reactors have long contributed to the energy requirements of this city, or that, in fact, Starbucks opened its first Indian outlet here. And now, that one of your leading cricketers – Secretary, you won’t be counted as a friend of India until you really understand cricket – so one of your leading cricketers, Saurabh Netravalkar, actually hails from Mumbai.
Friends, our ties have indeed come a long way. History records that many Americans were supportive of India’s struggle for independence. After that, whether it was infrastructure and education, or food, agriculture and technology, our partnership has made a real difference to India’s development. Conversely, Indian talent and Indian skills have helped shape the tech era in the United States.
Of course, we’ve had our share of issues, including the manner in which we approach the world and its challenges. But in the last few decades, our partnership has steadily expanded, acquiring new dimensions and new facets. The Quad, Mission 500, Pax Silica and the FORGE initiative are among some of the notable examples. And growth in the fields of energy, in defence and civil aviation sectors have actually been striking.
Now, like many other symbols of success and modernity, Mumbai too has been attacked by those who wish it ill. The spirit of the Mumbaikar was demonstrated in their response to the 26/11 terrorist assault. Six Americans also lost their lives at that time. Secretary Rubio, all of Mumbai and indeed, all of India appreciates your laying a wreath today at the Taj Hotel’s 26/11 memorial.
India also welcomes this Administration’s decision to extradite Tahawwur Hussain Rana, who was one of the key culprits. We are clear on the right to defend ourselves against terrorism, and expect that our partners show zero tolerance towards terrorism as well.
As we mark this anniversary together, it is natural to reflect on the way ahead. The world order is clearly in transition and countries are responding accordingly. Each one of us will naturally pursue our national interest. In such an era, expanding our convergence is key to deepening our ties. There are new opportunities in our partnership, in trade, investment, technology and energy, and these await us. We have a shared stake in strengthening peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Engaging regularly and identifying common interests will certainly help provide a pathway. So your presence here, Secretary Rubio, and the discussions that we’ve had earlier in the day hold great value.
So let me conclude by reiterating India’s best wishes to the United States on this landmark anniversary. And while doing so, reaffirm our commitment, our continued commitment, to advance the India-US strategic partnership. I thank you.