Bangalore (Karnataka) [India]: External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar joined US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, for the inauguration of the new US Consulate in Bangalore. The development marks a significant milestone in India-US relations, enhancing diplomatic ties and strengthening regional cooperation.
Speaking at the event, Jaishankar lauded the establishment of the consulate as an “important moment” in bilateral relations and announced plans for India to open a consulate in Los Angeles soon. “Bengaluru is such an important place, it was for me an imperative that there is a permanent resident presence of American diplomats this time,” Jaishankar said. “I told him [Eric Garcetti] you get Bengaluru done, and I’ll get you Los Angeles done, which is his hometown.”
Promoting Deeper Ties
Jaishankar emphasized the multifaceted relationship between India and the US, underscoring the importance of technology, defense, education, and research. He remarked that areas like artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicles (EVs), space, and drones will define the future of bilateral cooperation.
“Two decades ago, there were virtually no American weapons in our inventory, very little defense collaboration. Today we fly the C17s, the C130s, the Chinooks, and the Apaches,” he said, highlighting the transformation in defense relations.
He also expressed hope for greater collaboration in education, envisioning joint campuses, student exchanges, and an increased American education presence in Bengaluru.
Bengaluru: A Strategic Hub
Jaishankar noted Bengaluru’s strategic importance in global innovation and its role in fostering international relations. “It is important that Bengaluru realizes its potential in the relationship,” he said, adding that the presence of more consulates in the city would further serve India’s interests and those of Karnataka.
The minister stressed that the inauguration of the consulate is a symbol of overcoming “the hesitations of history” and realizing the potential of India-US relations.
Expanding Consular Networks
With this new consulate in Bangalore, the US aims to cater to the needs of the growing population of Indian citizens and companies with ties to America. The EAM’s announcement about a forthcoming Indian consulate in Los Angeles signals a reciprocal effort to deepen bilateral engagement.
As both nations continue to expand their diplomatic, technological, and cultural ties, initiatives like these underline the shared commitment to a robust and dynamic partnership.