Washington, Dec 14 (NationPress) India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, engaged with House Democrats Caucus Vice Chair, Representative Ted Lieu, to explore mutual interests in the realms of Artificial Intelligence (AI), defence and security cooperation, trade and investment, as well as strengthening people-to-people ties.

Kwatra expressed, "Had an enlightening discussion with Representative Ted Lieu, wherein we delved into our shared priorities focusing on the evolving landscape of AI, defence and security collaboration, trade, and social connections. I look forward to further partnership on matters of joint concern," he shared on X post-meeting.

On December 12, Kwatra highlighted a "productive dialogue" with Black Caucus Chair, Representative Yvette D. Clarke, who is known as a strong advocate for robust India-US relations. He acknowledged her insights on enhancing bilateral engagement within the AI sector, particularly concerning data privacy and security.

Additionally, he reported having an "engaging discussion" with industry leaders related to India’s AI Goals and the upcoming AI Impact summit during a roundtable hosted by the Albright Stonebridge Group, inviting American businesses to be integral partners in India’s AI progression.

Kwatra also convened with Senator Brian Schatz, Deputy Secretary of the Senate Democratic Conference, to share viewpoints on ongoing bilateral defence initiatives and a deeper India-US partnership in sectors like energy, technology, and innovation, while discussing significant regional developments.

Furthermore, he met with US Representative Dina Titus, addressing various aspects of collaboration including technology, tourism, and trade. Following their conversation, Kwatra remarked, "I appreciated my dialogue with Representative Dina Titus, as we explored numerous dimensions of our partnership, including trade, technology, and tourism. Her unwavering support for stronger ties between our nations is invaluable."

Earlier in the week, India and the US conducted Foreign Office Consultations, addressing key bilateral topics such as trade and investment, defence cooperation, the TRUST initiative, energy collaboration—including civil nuclear efforts, technology, critical minerals, and reliable supply chains, as stated by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and US Under Secretary of State Allison Hooker, who discussed regional and global developments of shared interest, affirming their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

In a statement, the MEA mentioned, "Both parties acknowledged the steady advancements in existing dialogue frameworks and agreed to expedite the implementation of 'Catalysing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce and Technology (COMPACT) for the 21st Century' to enhance transformative cooperation in essential areas of the partnership."