Usha Vance Emphasizes Personal and Strategic Ties Between India and the US
US Second Lady Usha Vance recently described the relationship between India and the United States as deeply personal and filled with immense potential. Speaking at the eighth US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) Leadership Summit, Vance highlighted the significant opportunities currently unfolding in bilateral ties.
A Personal Connection to India
Vance shared that her connection to India is intimate and longstanding, noting that she has family members living in both India and the US. She recounted her upbringing involving frequent visits to India, which has fostered a strong sense of connection and understanding towards the country.
“It is a very personal relationship because I have family members who are in India, and I have many family members here in the United States,” Vance remarked, underscoring the emotional foundation of her perspective.
Seizing a Moment of Opportunity
Responding to inquiries about the current state of India-US relations, Vance conveyed optimism about the future. She described the present time as one ripe with opportunity, suggesting that the partnership is poised for significant advancement in the coming years.
She pointed out that the relationship between the two nations has experienced its share of fluctuations over time, but current dynamics are particularly encouraging due to several factors:
- The thriving Indian-American population in the United States
- A growing familiarity and appreciation among people in India for the US
- Increasing collaboration and shared goals between the countries
Lasting Impressions from a Recent Visit
During a recent trip to India with her family, including Vice President J.D. Vance and their children, Usha Vance observed widespread goodwill. Numerous people expressed affection for the United States and emphasized hopes for continued close ties between the two nations.
Vance emphasized: “I was struck by the number of people who came up to me to say how much they loved our country and looked forward to a close relationship.” She noted that these personal bonds play a crucial role in strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Recognition of Economic Partnerships at USISPF Summit
The summit also featured presentations of the 2025 Global Leadership Awards, honoring exemplary contributions to the US-India-Japan economic partnership. Awardees included IBM Chairman Arvind Krishna, Aditya Birla Group Chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla, and Hitachi Executive Chairman Toshiaki Higashihara.
This marked the first occasion that leaders from the QUAD nations—Australia, India, Japan, and the United States—were recognized at the USISPF event, reflecting the expanding strategic and economic collaboration in the region.
About USISPF
USISPF is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the comprehensive strategic partnership between the United States and India. The forum facilitates dialogue among government officials, business leaders, and community representatives to promote shared interests and mutual development.
