Freshmen Republican misidentifies two senior officials as Indian Govt. representatives

Freshman Republican Curt Clawson reportedly mistook two senior U.S. government officials as representatives of the Indian government during a congressional hearing of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

According to The Cable, the two officials Nisha Biswal and Arun Kumar are Americans, who hold senior positions at the State Department and Commerce Department respectively.

Clawson repeatedly asked them questions related to India and the Indian Government.

The Florida Republican also said that he was familiar with India, adding that he was willing and enthusiastic to strengthen the Indo-US ties.

He also reportedly asked the officials if the Indian government could loosen restrictions on U.S. capital investments in India.

The question prompted a lengthy pause and looks of confusion from State Department and congressional staff attending the hearing.

Biswal later replied that his question is directed at the Indian government and added that she will advocate that on behalf of the U.S.

The report further added that Clawson's office did not respond to a request for comment, but he later apologized in a statement to USA Today on Friday.