'Strong Indo-US ties is in best interest of the two countries'

A strong Indo-US relationship is in the best interest of the two countries as it will enable close collaboration across a broad spectrum of strategic interests, such as counter-terrorism and promotion of democracy, according to two powerful American Senators.

Extending invitation to eminent Indian-Americans and their colleagues in the Senate for a rare reception hosted for the Indian Ambassador Meera Shankar, Senators John Cornyn and Chris Dodd said, "this event will also mark the beginning of a new partnership between the US Senate and Americans of Indian descent aimed at furthering our common interests and enhancing US-India relations."

Cornyn, a Republican, and Dodd, from the Democratic Party, are co-chairs of the Senate India Caucus. This is for the first time that the Senate India Caucus is hosting a reception for the Indian Ambassador.

"A strong relationship between the US and India, based on mutual trust and respect, will enable close collaboration across a broad spectrum of strategic interests, such as counter-terrorism, promotion of democracy, fostering regional economic development, encouraging respect for human rights, and expanding scientific research," the two Senators said.

Urging their colleagues in the US Senate to attend the reception to be hosted Tuesday (Wednesday India time), the Senators said besides India being the world's largest democracy, it is also one of the world's biggest and most dynamic economies.