Congressman Holding on the Indian Elections

Press Release

Last week, the world witnessed the conclusion of India's national election that brought some 500 million people to the polls in a vibrant demonstration of democracy in action. I would like to personally extend my sincere congratulations to the people of India and Indian community in the United States on a successful election.

The citizens of India have spoken -- and spoken loudly -- giving Mr. Narendra Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) a single-party majority for the first time in over thirty years with the BJP turning out voters from all parts of the country and all walks of life. Part of this success can be attributed to Modi's success at the helm of the Indian State of Gujarat. His ability to attract new business and commerce allowed entrepreneurs to flourish and the Indian people believe he can expand this business-friendly model across their nation.

A little over two months ago, I was the first Member at a hearing of the House Foreign Affairs Committee to ask Secretary of State John Kerry about the then-upcoming Indian elections and the status of Mr. Modi's visa application. I am relieved to see the administration extend an invitation to Mr. Modi to visit the United States -- an action I believe that should have been taken long ago.

Having led a Congressional Delegation to India last year, I stand committed to working with our partners in India to expand and facilitate greater understanding and enhanced cooperation between our two democracies. I know personally just how important these elections were to the people of India but also to our passionate Indian community right here in the Triangle that has longed for a new direction in India.

India, like the United States, faces challenges both at home and abroad that all must be carefully considered and addressed with in a deliberate manner. India is home to just over 1.2 billion people and change will not come quickly or easily. Instituting structural reforms to combat corruption, reform their tax code, or bring their intellectual property system in line with international standards will not happen overnight. I believe the United States should stand committed to helping India achieve its vision for the future.

I have long feared that our nation's foreign policy has become too focused on responding to a particular day's crisis rather than taking a long-term view to develop a clear and coherent strategy for the future. But with the political winds having already shifted in New Delhi, the United States has a unique opportunity to take that long-term outlook. If Mr. Modi and the BJP are able to replicate the successes of Gujarat, it will certainly mean more opportunities for American and Indian businesses alike - in a rapidly growing market with changing demographics.

By continuing to expand our partnership with India, we can achieve long-term success designed to make absolutely certain our bilateral relationship is one centered around unwavering resolve and boundless opportunity for many years to come.

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