Congressional Statements

Crowley: In honor of the visit of Minister Jaswant Singh

Statement in House of Representatives
October 2, 2001

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome to the United States India's Minister of External Affairs and Minister of Defense, Jaswant Singh.

As a leader of the world's largest democracy, Minister Singh's visit to America is timely. In light of the tragic events of September 11, it is increasingly important for leaders of the world's great nations to unite to protect the freedoms and liberties of democracy.

On behalf of the United States government and the American people, I would like to thank Minister Singh and the government of India for strongly condemning the terrorist attacks on the United States, and for expressing their unconditional willingness to assist in fighting the new global war against terrorism. Sadly, approximately 250 Indian nationals and persons of Indian origin were killed in the September 11th attacks. To the victims and their families I extend my deepest sympathies.

As has America, India has experienced firsthand the devastating consequences of cross-border terrorism. In the past fifteen years, approximately 53,000 civilians in India have been killed by indiscriminate terrorist acts. The global nature of terrorism and its' far-reaching effects require concerted global action. We trust that future cooperation with India's leaders to combat terrorism, not only in South Asia and here in the U.S., but together around the world, will strengthen and will reinforce the important relationship between our countries.

In recent years, the United States and India have moved towards increased cooperation and improved understanding. The trend towards improved bilateral relations is evidenced by the US-India Summit Meetings held in New Delhi in March of 2000, and the formation of our Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism early that same year.

In light of the current situation in the U.S. and instability in South Asia, we recognize that open communication, dialogue, and partnership between our democratic nations must be maintained and enhanced as we strive together to achieve common goals and to promote peace in the region. We remain committed to cooperating with the government and people of India on issues of common interest, and we commend India for the role that she has undertaken in working towards greater prosperity and stability in South Asia.

Of particular importance now, however, is the return of Pakistan to a democratic government, and the establishment of peace in the Kashmir region.

Such shared goals offer opportunities for collaboration, and indeed, require international collaboration if they are to be realized. Clearly, these issues remain central to South Asia's future stability.

The war on terrorism aside Mr. Speaker, as a member of the India Caucus, I look forward to continuing work to improve America's trade, investment, and military cooperation with India. It is my hope that we will continue the processes begun in past years to construct a valuable working relationship with India, one that is mutually beneficial to both our countries. We recognize India's role as a political, economic, and military force in regional and world affairs, and thus seek her continued cooperation and partnership.

I extend my sincere wishes to your Minister Singh for a most productive visit to Washington. Your country is an extremely important friend of America's, and I again thank you for the support that your nation has offered to the United States.

Thank you Mr. Speaker.