Washington, Jan 13 (NationPress) Senior lawmakers in the United States have emphasized a distinct separation between India and Pakistan within Washington's strategic framework, asserting that India—rather than Pakistan—is recognized as America's enduring partner in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

During a discussion at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Representative Ami Bera articulated that regular diplomatic interactions with Pakistan should not be misinterpreted as a strategic alliance.

“We’re not forging a strategic partnership with Pakistan,” Bera stated, countering misconceptions fueled by recent political discourse.

He noted that remarks from US officials can occasionally provoke tensions in New Delhi. “The president made some remarks about Pakistan, and had invited Pakistani leaders to the Oval Office,” Bera explained, reflecting on the diplomatic landscape during a recent trip to India.

However, Bera made it clear that economic and strategic factors overwhelmingly support India. “You don’t observe American firms making multibillion-dollar investments in Pakistan. That’s all taking place in India,” he remarked.

Representative Rich McCormick supported this viewpoint, labeling India as essential for both regional and global stability. “There is no more crucial ally that we will require for the future—not only for the United States and India but for the stability of the entire world—than India,” he asserted.

The lawmakers indicated that Pakistan does not hold a place in Washington's long-term Indo-Pacific strategy, which increasingly focuses on democratic partners and economic integration. Bera highlighted that India has been pivotal to the US strategy through various administrations. “If you trace back to the Clinton administration, through Bush, Obama, Trump 1.0, and Biden, India has been integral to our entire Indo-Pacific approach,” he stated.

Bera also contrasted investor enthusiasm in India with the lack of similar energy in Pakistan. “We’re playing the long game,” he emphasized, noting that the business community recognizes the trajectory of US involvement.

McCormick pointed out that India's alignment with American values differentiates it. “The common ground we share in our perspectives on economics, freedom, and the advancement of people,” he explained, establishing the basis of their partnership.

While recognizing India’s independent foreign policy, McCormick stated that Washington acknowledges New Delhi’s domestic priorities. “He’s acting in the best interest of his country,” McCormick remarked, referring to Indian decision-making concerning energy and economic growth.