By Arun Kumar

Washington, Jan 31 (IANS) After putting their weight behind the India-US nuclear deal, the Indian American community is now hoping to get a seat for India in the UN Security council besides helping to resolve issues concerning small business and immigration.

"As representatives of the Indian American community, we will be closely working with the new Congress," Sanjay Puri, head of two community organizations, said at a reception for US lawmakers at Capitol Hill to celebrate the India deal.

They would also work for "bringing the US and India together by attaining a seat for India in the UN Security Council, but also striving to resolve issues that concern Indian Americans such as small business and immigration," he said.

Leading members of US Congress from both sides of the political spectrum hailed the emergence of a new age in US-India relations at the reception organized by US India Political Action Committee (USINPAC) and US India Business Alliance (USIBA).

The reception was attended among others by the new Democratic chairman of the House committee on foreign affairs, Tom Lantos, and a key leader in the House India Caucus, Democrat Jim McDermott.

Speaking about the promise of a new strategic partnership with India moving forward, Lantos applauded the work of organizations and active individuals working toward the legislative goals of the Indian American community.

Reflecting on the passage of the India deal in Congress, Democrat James Moran said, "USINPAC and USIBA are to be commended for their efforts. Their understanding of the legislative process and thoughtful approach to dealing with this sensitive issue were major factors that led to the bill's enactment."

Other prominent attendees included Democrats Joe Crowley, Eni Faleomavaega, Frank Pallone, Sheila Jackson-Lee, Paul Hodes and Earl Blumenauer besides Republicans Ed Royce and Darrell Issa.

Primus Telecommunications USA president Ravi Bhatia said, "I am impressed by the level of commitment, activity and dedication of USINPAC toward the core issues of the Indian American community. The results of USINPAC's efforts are there for all to see."



Click here to send Gifts to India