George Holding: “The United States is fortunate to have allies and partners across the world that we work with every day to combat…”

“The United States is fortunate to have allies and partners across the world that we work with every day to combat terrorism and our other security challenges. One of these relationships that I work closely on is the strategic partnership between the United States and India. Together, the U.S. and India face a set of common security challenges, and there can be no question that closer defense and security cooperation between our two democracies will greatly benefit all of our people. Over the last few years, Mr. Speaker, we have seen substantial growth in this partnership, most recently formalized last year with the 10- year renewal of the defense framework. This partnership is also highlighted by forums such as the U.S.-India Defense Technology and Trade Initiative. I firmly believe that Congress should be supporting and offering more opportunities for the U.S.-India defense partnership to succeed. {time} 1015 That is why today I will be introducing the U.S.-India Defense Technology and Partnership Act. This legislation will cement the progress that has already been made and will lay the foundation for future cooperation and growth. Additionally, this legislation will elevate India's status by shortening the time required for the notification of sale or export of defense articles from the United States to India. It will also bring our defense establishment closer together by encouraging more joint contingency planning and will require the U.S.…”