Tell us about your visit to India.
Our two nations are striving for progress and this relationship plays a huge role in that. Our two countries must continue to aspire to the promise of prosperity and security, and that delivering on that promise is something we can do together through our bilateral cooperation. We consider India’s ‘look east’ policy to be an important element in regional cooperation, one that serves our common interests and values.
Looking at regional dynamics, do you think that both China and the Taliban will become more important players here?
India, China and the United States are important players in the Asia-Pacific region. Our countries must work together to promote our common economic and security interests. China shares borders and interests with South and Central Asia; has a real interest in regional cooperation. With regard to the future role of the Taliban, we have made it clear that if the Taliban want to have any role in Afghanistan’s political future, they must break ties with al-Qaida, stop supporting violence and accept the Afghan Constitution.
How do you see the evolution of ties between the United States and Pakistan, especially considering the concerns on both sides, the drone strikes, and the dynamics with extremist groups?
The United States looks forward to working with the Pakistani government on a shared agenda, which includes fighting terrorism, holding those responsible for terrorist attacks accountable, supporting Pakistan’s economic growth, and holding close consultations on a variety of regional issues.
What aspects of the relationship between the United States and India are most important to the United States and how do you see the ties developing?
India’s rise as a global economic power is one of the most powerful stories of the 21st century. The United States has welcomed the rise of India and both nations have benefited from it.
Our cooperation on security and the fight against terrorism is of vital importance to our global stability. India has also long been one of the largest providers of United Nations peacekeeping personnel. Our countries share the same democratic values and we have a tremendous capacity to work together.
India is the economic center of South Asia and plays an important role in helping to integrate the region. We strongly support the role that India has played in Afghanistan.
.
