Washington: A group of half a dozen influential American lawmakers has reintroduced an important legislation in the House of Representatives which seeks to advance the US-India strategic relationship. If enacted, the legislation would ensure that the US state department treats India as a Nato ally for the purposes of the Arms Export Control Act. It would send a powerful signal that defence sales to India should be prioritised according to US-India Strategic Partnership Forum. The bill was introduced by Congressman Joe Wilson, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “This adjustment to US law will further allow the US-India partnership to flourish in line with our security commitment to the Indo-Pacific region,” he said.
The original co-sponsors of the legislation are Congressman Ami Bera - the longest serving Indian-American in Congress - and the House India Caucus Co-Chairs, Congressmen George Holding, Brad Sherman and Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard and Congressman Ted Yoho. "India is the world's largest democracy, a pillar of stability in the region, and has shown strong commitments to export control policies," said Wilson. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal 2017 included special language recognising the unique US-India defence relationship that designated India as a "Major Defence Partner" of the United States. The language seeks unique consideration for trade and technology sharing with India and increased attention and support to advance this relationship in the areas of defence trade and technology sharing.
"The legislation bolsters national security and helps ensure full alignment between the Department of Defense and the Department of State. Such a change will institutionalise the gains made in the relationship and provide a more stable foundation upon which both countries can solidify this unique defence partnership," USISPF said. Although powerful in its own right, the NDAA FY 2017 has no legal bearing on the State Department's body of legislation, nor does it compel the State Department to view defence with India more favourably, USISPF said in a statement. To fulfill the spirit and intent of the NDAA 2017, the US-India Enhanced Cooperation Act would amend the Arms Export Control Act to put India on par with NATO allies and Israel, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia and Japan.
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