Congressional Reps Express Support At Indian Embassy Exhibition Highlighting Human Toll Of Terror

WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. lawmakers from both parties called for deeper India-U.S. cooperation on security, trade and global stability, while urging a united international front against terrorism.

Speaking at an “Exhibition on Human Cost of Terrorism,” organized by the Indian Embassy on Capitol Hill, members of Congress described India as a key strategic partner and said closer coordination between the two democracies is essential to address global challenges, particularly terrorism.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi said the relationship “is not as strong as it should be,” citing what he described as a more “transactional relationship” and the impact of tariffs. However, he added that ties “should transcend parties… and… rise to new heights over time.”

He also stressed shared democratic values. “Our two countries… share so much in common,” he said, citing commitments to freedom, equality and a rules-based international order.

Congressman Dave Taylor described India as “a hugely important ally of the United States,” and called for “a coordinated policy” to confront global threats, including terrorism.

Congressman Bill Huizenga, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on South and Central Asia, said India is “extremely important… both economically, strategically,” adding that bilateral cooperation spans counter-terrorism, intelligence-sharing and maritime security.

Huizenga also underscored the importance of open sea lanes, saying the United States remains focused on ensuring freedom of navigation, an area in which India plays an increasingly significant role.

Congressman Ro Khanna, co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, said the partnership has taken on greater urgency in confronting transnational threats. “Terrorism isn’t just contained to one region… it spreads and threatens freedom around the world,” Khanna said, calling for stronger intelligence-sharing and defense cooperation.

Congressman Brad Sherman, a longtime supporter of India-U.S. ties, said bilateral relations have been “strained by the outrageous tariffs,” but expressed optimism about stronger economic engagement ahead. Addressing terrorism, Sherman said diplomacy must be judged by outcomes. “You don’t make peace with your friends. You make peace with your enemies and the friends of your enemies.” He added, “I’m much more concerned about the content of those talks,” stressing that negotiations should not compromise security.

Sherman also pointed to regional risks, saying, “India lives right next to a nuclear armed Pakistan. We certainly don’t wanna see a nuclear armed Iran.” Referring to militant safe havens, he said some extremist groups “have found sanctuary in Pakistan,” and called for stronger international action.

Congressman Jamie Raskin described terrorism as an attack on civilians and democratic societies. “Terrorism is all about the destruction of human lives and civilian lives in order to advance some kind of perverse political program,” he said. He added, “We need to crack down on terrorist financing.”

Congressman Rich McCormick said democratic nations must act together against extremism, calling it “an evil, religious intolerant, fundamentalist movement.” He said the partnership between India and the United States could help “usher in an era of peace, economic prosperity,” adding that both nations have “a common enemy.”

Congressman Jonathan Jackson said instability and conflict affect countries worldwide through rising costs and insecurity. “The price of fuel, the price of food… affects us all,” he said, warning that growing violence is “now consuming the entire world.”

Congresswoman April McClain Delaney described India-U.S. ties as “a long, strong relationship,” rooted in deep people-to-people links and the contributions of the Indian diaspora. “I think there’s just such an incredible exchange between our countries,” she said.

Congressman Jamie Raskin and Congresswoman Julie Johnson also emphasized the importance of a rules-based international order and democratic alignment in confronting global threats.

India’s Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, said the strong participation of lawmakers reflected broad bipartisan support for the partnership. “Congressmen… represent the voice of the people,” he said, adding that their engagement helps shape policy and strengthens global counter-terrorism efforts.

Kwatra said the exhibition was intended to highlight “the pain and the suffering” caused by terrorism and reinforce the need for countries to “come together, need to work together, and… act together.”

Lawmakers across party lines said cooperation on counter-terrorism, defense, trade and global security will continue to define the India-U.S. relationship as both countries navigate an increasingly uncertain world. (IANS)