Georgia’s US Senator hails Indo-US relationship- Atlanta Dunia -

GIACC Business Roundtable
Georgia’s US Senator hails Indo-US relationship

Text and Photo by Ravi R. Ponangi

Atlanta, GA: Johnny Isakson, Georgia’s US Senator reaffirmed before a well attended meeting of Indian community and business leaders that U.S. is a great friend of India and has special relationship with India. He said he was in India in 2006 when President Bush signed nuclear civilian agreement with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He took pride in the fact that he has close contacts with Indian community here. The Senator informed that he had visited Bangalore again with 3 other members of the U.S. foreign relations committee. He said he had the privilege of acquainting himself with India and its wonderful people. He claimed he had successfully interacted with several Indian businesses and brought many projects to America. The Senator informed that among the 27 billion U.S. exports, India is the 16th recipient that received American exports in 2007. He said India and US have common concern for a secure world and India is a great partner of U.S. in fighting global terrorism.

Senator Isakson expatiated at length on the opportunities available between Georgia and India especially in the areas of shipping ports. “Savannah has grown to be the most consumer friendly port in the country. India can take advantage of the excellent service that the port provides,” added Senator Isakson. Senator Isakson also spoke elaborately on issues on healthcare, banking, climate change, national security, and the tri-state water issue.

Senator Isakson answered a number of questions posed by the attendees. To a pointed question, he assured he will speak to


Senator Isakson	Rick Desai

the Governor about opening of a Georgia Department of Economic Development office in India. When asked about the diminishing the bondage of relationship between India and America under Obama Government as compared with the erstwhile Bush administration, the Senator maintained that the change of administration in US has not affected the relationship between India and U.S. He substantiated this fact by remarking Obama hosted a state dinner in White House in honor of Prime Minister of India Manmohan Singh and Obama has not tampered with the Nuclear Civilian Agreement signed by his predecessor.
Earlier, Rick Desai, the current Chairman of GIACC board welcoming the Senator, apprised him that business leaders of Indian community who are as passionate about Georgia as they are about India are present in the audience. He added that these are the people who are bringing investment to Georgia and making the state more vibrant economically.

Notwithstanding their business commitment and work pressure, they also take time preserve their roots and culture adding diversity and making the state of Georgia a leader in international arena. Addressing the Senator Mr. Desai said “you are not the stranger but a good friend of Indian community. You are always on forefront representing the needs of Indian community” He assured the Senator that Indian community will stand by him.