Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, called his role one of the greatest honors of his life. Speaking at the event “The United States and India: Building Bridges for our People,” he emphasized the depth and significance of the US-India relationship. “It has been one of the personal honors of my lifetime, but I know for our country too, this is one of the greatest relationships our country has ever known,” Garcetti remarked.
Cultural Preservation and Exchange
Highlighting cultural collaboration, Garcetti praised the recent US-India Cultural Property Agreement. This landmark deal aims to curb the illegal trade of cultural artifacts and facilitate their return to India. Since 2016, the US has returned 578 cultural treasures to India, with over half repatriated during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit in 2023.
“Indian history isn’t just for India; it’s world heritage,” Garcetti said, advocating for global recognition of India’s rich cultural legacy.
Educational Collaboration
The ambassador proudly noted India’s leading role in international education, with one in four foreign students in the US being Indian. Garcetti celebrated a 23% growth in Indian students pursuing higher education in America over the past year. He also emphasized joint efforts in education, including USAID partnerships that have benefited over nine million students across India, focusing on inclusivity for girls and students with disabilities.
Progress in Multiple Fronts
Reflecting on his tenure, Garcetti cited record accomplishments in trade, defense, space cooperation, and cultural exchange. “It’s not India plus the US but India times the US,” he said, underscoring the synergy between the two nations.
The ambassador summarized the collaboration through the “Four Ps” framework: preserving peace, pursuing prosperity, protecting the planet, and promoting people-to-people connections.
A Personal Connection
Garcetti expressed gratitude for the support extended to his family during the wildfires in Los Angeles, which displaced his parents and grandchildren. Quoting the Indian mystic poet Kabir, he urged seizing the present moment: “Kal kare so aaj kar, aaj kare so ab.”
Looking Ahead
The ambassador concluded by reiterating his commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations. “Together, we’re equipping the next generation to tackle the world’s greatest challenges,” he said, celebrating the enduring US-India partnership.
