Holding Applauds India's Efforts to Combat Covid-19

Statement

Congressman George Holding (NC-02) - co-chairman of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans - released the following statement applauding the Government of India for their efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The Indian government has been hard at work both in their country and in the United States to help the international community fight COVID-19. It's amazing to see how one of our closest and most important partners can have such an impact in our country from nearly ten thousand miles away.

"Together, the Indian and U.S. governments have been able to identify measures necessary to propel us forward in the fight against this pandemic. India has shown that they are committed to keeping key supply and logistics chains open for pharmaceutical and medical products -- benefitting both the United States and India's own regional neighbors. In early April, Prime Minister Modi and President Trump worked together to overcome the challenges that international trade faces amidst national lockdowns. Since then, India has provided the United States with vital supplies such as mass quantities of Hydroxychloroquine.

"The U.S.-India partnership has also directly impacted the lives of many Americans. As of April 16th, more than 1,500 American citizens have returned home to the United States from India thanks to the facilitation of Indian authorities. On U.S. soil, Sewa International (an India-based service organization) has been working tirelessly to donate masks, provide meals to first responders, and ensure vulnerable populations have access to food and medicine throughout the country. Sewa has also provided support systems by hosting informative conference calls, while Indo-American hoteliers have stepped up and donated temporary housing to Indian international students in the United States.

"It prides me to see that the sense of community supersedes borders and cultures during a time of international crisis. The Republic of India is one of America's closest and most important allies, and our relationship has always enjoyed bipartisan support in Washington, D.C. I am thankful that India has stepped up as a leader in the fight against coronavirus, and am glad that our special partnership remains strong during this pandemic."

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