Indian PM stresses prosperity, stability during congress speech

Global Business

Just three years ago, diplomatic and economic relations between the U.S. and India were frigid at best.

But with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi taking the reins of power two years ago, the U.S.-India relationship is entering an unprecedented era of cooperation, thanks to Modi’s efforts.

CCTV America’s Jessica Stone reports.

Modi’s speech before the U.S. Congress marked a new chapter in India-U.S. relations.

The world’s fourth largest economy is growing at more than 7.5 percent a year-faster than any other economy in the world. India has recently opened up more than a dozen sectors to foreign direct investment.

“We will continue to make progress on improving the investment climate and ease of doing business,” Modi remarked.

Modi made clear he wants to elevate India to great power status and position New Delhi as a counterweight to Beijing’s growing influence in Asia.

In April, Indian and American defense chiefs agreed to cooperate more, allowing Indian and U.S. ships to resupply each other and help with repairs, but stopping short of joint naval patrols. Modi used his Washington DC visit to finalize the language of this agreement.


Haiyan Wang discusses U.S.-India economic relationship

CCTV America’s Rachelle Akuffo spoke to Haiyan Wang, managing partner at the China India Institute, about India’s economy and U.S.-India economic ties in depth. Wang also touched on issues including the U.S.-India-China relations, immigration, and H1B visas for Indian citizens and opportunities for foreign firms to make headway in India.