Kwatra’s diplomatic career includes postings in China, the US, Modi’s office, and as India’s envoy to France before becoming the foreign ministry’s top bureaucrat…reports Asian Lite News
India has nominated retired diplomat Vinay Kwatra as its next ambassador to the US, just months ahead of a pivotal election, according to media reports. Kwatra, who recently retired as India’s foreign secretary, aims to bring stability to India-US relations amid potential changes following the US elections in November. His immediate task will be to engage with officials who might influence India-related policies in the upcoming administration.
For two decades, India and the US have been strengthening their relationship, which flourished under both the Trump and Biden administrations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President Donald Trump enjoyed a close relationship, even hosting a joint rally in the US in 2019.
Kwatra’s diplomatic career includes postings in China, the US, Modi’s office, and as India’s envoy to France before becoming the foreign ministry’s top bureaucrat. The ambassadorial position has been vacant since Taranjit Singh Sandhu’s tenure ended in January. India’s Ministry of External Affairs did not comment on the nomination, but an official announcement is expected soon.
Under Modi, India has viewed the US as a partner in countering China’s assertiveness, while maintaining a balanced foreign policy, including strong ties with Russia. The US sees India as a crucial ally in Asia against China but has expressed concerns over human rights issues and recent allegations involving New Delhi.
Despite these challenges, the India-US relationship has a robust business and geopolitical foundation, requiring constant attention, especially with potential new US leadership. New Delhi hopes to advance a critical technology-sharing initiative, including manufacturing jet engines and semiconductors in India.
Earlier this week, the United States urged India to use its longstanding relationship with Russia to urge President Vladimir Putin to “end his illegal war and to find a lasting peace” in its conflict with Ukraine.
Mathew Miller, the State Department spokesperson, was asked about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Moscow and his meeting with President Putin, which continues to generate interest in Washington.
“India has a longstanding relationship with Russia,” Miller said, adding, “We have, speaking for the United States, encouraged India to utilise that relationship with Russia, that long-standing relationship in the unique position that they have to urge President Putin to end his illegal war and to find a just peace, a lasting peace to this conflict.”
He added that India should “tell Vladimir Putin to respect the UN charter, to respect Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. And that’s what we continue to impress upon the government of India which is an important partner of ours when it comes to its relationship with Russia.”
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