Immigration reform bill may be the next big hurdle in Indo-US ties.
By Deepak Chitnis
WASHINGTON, DC: Former US Ambassador to India Frank G. Wisner has given his two cents on the Devyani Khobragade incident and what it means for the future of the US-India dynamic, likening its effects to “a squall on an otherwise reasonably calm sea.”
In an interview with Asia Society, Wisner essentially echoed the sentiments of many political officers and pundits, saying that the Khobragade incident was a momentary snafu in a relationship that is otherwise too important to be destroyed by just one thing.
“Now our diplomats must meet and negotiate consular privileges and immunities on a reciprocal basis so that future incidents can be avoided,” he said. “I think the real task for American and Indian diplomats is to make it a priority to focus on the big strategic questions in our relationship.”
Wisner also touched on the strengths and weaknesses present within the US-India bilateral relationship, attempting to assuage fears that the Khobragade incident had done any kind of permanent damage. Wisner said that the relationship has improved tremendously over the past few decades, with several investments between the countries that will continue to bolster ties over the course of the near future.
“It’s also worth remembering how much strategic perceptions have changed over the past 20 years,” explained Wisner. “I can’t emphasize enough how consequential this change has been. In the U.S., we recognize that India’s needs matter to us and that a strong India is a boost for the U.S.”
In terms of weaknesses, Wisner said that weren’t really any, but the fact that the relationship has stalled over the last four years is in and of itself a weakness that needs to be overcome. However, Wisner did say that the immigration reform bill has irked several Indian IT firms, calling it” a big bone in India’s throat,” and may make it difficult for the US and India to advance their partnership.
Wisner also weighed in on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, saying that although it’s still too early to predict a winner, US and Indian businesses must come to terms with the fact that regardless of the outcome, dealing with BJP candidate Narendra Modi may be inevitable.
“He has a strong record of economic and administrative achievement and a demonstrated ability to win elections,” said Wisner. “Modi is an able man; we’ll have to see how he conducts himself if he rises to the top. But doing business with him will be an imperative, assuming of course his party is able to form India’s next government.”
Wisner outlined the three key issues that the US and India must focus on to continue expanding their relationship – the American withdrawal from Afghanistan, the future of Pakistan, and how to handle the growing power of China. Wisner noted that frank and serious talks are necessary, and must occur sooner rather than later.
The entire interview with Wisner can be listened to below (courtesy of Asia Society):
To contact the author, email to deepakchitnis@americanbazaaronline.com