US eyes stronger partnership with India to tackle global challenges, says top official

The DFC, under the Biden administration, has significantly invested in India, with over $3.8 billion in active projects.

As she prepares for her upcoming visit to India, Nisha Desai Biswal, Deputy CEO of the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), has highlighted the strong desire of the Biden administration to partner with India on major global issues. Her remarks particularly highlight her commitment to tackling shared challenges in healthcare, clean energy, and climate change.

“This trip is all about collaboration,” Biswal told PTI before her departure. “It’s not just about what India needs but how we can work together to solve global problems.” Her visit, her first to India in four years and first as DFC Deputy CEO, marks a significant moment in the evolving US-India relationship.

Scheduled to start on September 10, Biswal’s four-day trip will focus on strengthening the US-India Strategic Partnership. She noted that India’s role is crucial in addressing global issues, citing the country’s pivotal contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic. “India was essential in managing the pandemic within its borders and in distributing vaccines worldwide,” Biswal noted.

The DFC, under the Biden administration, has significantly invested in India, with over $3.8 billion in active projects. “India is our largest investment partner, with USD 2.5 billion invested in key areas like infrastructure, manufacturing, healthcare, and clean energy,” Biswal revealed. She highlighted that these investments are crucial for supporting India’s economic growth and enhancing access to capital.

Biswal expressed enthusiasm about exploring new opportunities during her visit, particularly in climate and clean technology. “We want to ensure that as we advance technology, we’re not overly dependent on a single country. India is a top partner for diversifying technological manufacturing,” she said.

Reflecting on her long-standing role in fostering US-India relations, Biswal, who has previously served as Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia and led the US-India Business Council, praised the deepening ties between the two nations. “It’s exhilarating to see how expansive and profound our partnership has become,” she said.

Biswal also lauded India’s strides in research and technology. “From space exploration to breakthroughs in health and pharmaceuticals, Indian advancements are making a global impact,” she noted. “Partnering with India not only benefits its people but creates significant global advantages.”