Washington, March 30 (NationPress) Congressman Tom Suozzi has been appointed as the Democratic Vice-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, positioning the New York representative in a significant leadership capacity regarding Capitol Hill's interaction with India.

The announcement was made by Caucus Chairman Ro Khanna, who highlighted Suozzi’s extensive engagement with the Indian American community and his efforts to bolster relations between Washington and New Delhi.

A veteran member of the caucus, Suozzi's promotion comes after years of advocacy and connection-building. His initiatives have included trips to India, and last year he made history as the first American Member of Congress to visit the Kartarpur Corridor.

He represents a district that includes Long Island and Queens, which has a substantial Indian American population, according to a media release.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as Vice-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans. My district boasts a vibrant Indian American community, and I cherish the longstanding relationships I have formed throughout the years,” Suozzi expressed.

In his statement, he emphasized the strategic significance of the bilateral relationship.

“The US-India relationship is among the most impactful alliances globally today. Furthermore, the numerous contributions of the Indian American community have significantly influenced the culture, economy, and history of not just Long Island and Queens, but our entire nation,” he stated.

“As Vice-Chair, I am eager to further our economic connections, deepen our strategic alliance, and strengthen the lasting friendship between the United States and India, grounded in our shared values of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law,” Suozzi added.

Khanna welcomed Suozzi's appointment, noting his bipartisan credentials and community connections. “We are thrilled to have Congressman Suozzi join the leadership of the Caucus on India and Indian Americans. His strong ties to the Indian American community, dedication to enhancing the U.S.-India partnership, and ability to collaborate across party lines will be invaluable,” Khanna remarked.

“Tom has been a pivotal member of the Caucus and a staunch advocate for the U.S.-India relationship for many years, and we are pleased to see him in this new capacity,” he added.

Suozzi joins the caucus leadership team alongside co-chairs Khanna and Rich McCormick, reflecting the group’s bipartisan character.

The Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans is one of the largest country-focused caucuses in the U.S. Congress, uniting lawmakers from both parties to promote cooperation with India and address concerns affecting the Indian American diaspora.

U.S.-India relations have grown significantly in recent years, encompassing defense, technology, trade, and personal connections. This partnership is frequently viewed as a collaboration between two democracies with aligned strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific.

The Indian American community, now recognized as one of the fastest-growing and most influential diaspora groups in the United States, has been crucial in shaping these connections through business, academia, and public service.