U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker is set to join Secretary of State John Kerry for the U.S.-India Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi on July 31. This meeting will focus on strengthening economic ties between the United States and India through collaboration in various sectors. The visit marks the first U.S. Cabinet-level trip to New Delhi since the election of India's new government.
"There are tremendous opportunities for collaboration between the U.S. and India, the two largest democracies in the world," stated Secretary Pritzker. "The Strategic Dialogue will play a key role in advancing the vital commercial relationship between our two countries. As the new Indian government defines its policy agenda to focus on economic growth and job creation, we look forward to identifying opportunities for U.S. companies to engage in the market and create increased prosperity in both of our nations."
Before attending the Strategic Dialogue, Secretary Pritzker plans to visit Mumbai for discussions with Indian business leaders.
The trade and investment relationship between the United States and India is robust, with two-way trade increasing five-fold since 2000, reaching approximately $96 billion in 2013. U.S. investments in India amount to $28 billion, while Indian foreign direct investment in the United States stands at $9 billion.
The U.S. Commerce Department's Commercial Service has established its largest overseas presence in India, with staff based in seven cities to assist U.S. businesses in navigating local markets and facilitating exports of American goods and services.