Noting that a regionally engaged India benefits the US strategic goals in Asia, nine US lawmakers have introduced a legislation asking the administration to help India join the Asia - Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.
"Membership in APEC would provide India a constructive forum to glean insight from other Asian countries that have already taken significant steps to advance their economies, " said Matt Salmon, of the House Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific.
He was joined in introducing the House legislation by among others the sole Indian - American member of the House of Representatives, Ami Bera.
The bill directs the Secretary of State to develop a strategy to obtain membership for India in forum established in 1989 for 21 Pacific Rim member economies to promote free trade throughout the Asia - Pacific region.
"Indian Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi is striving for major economic reforms to open India's markets, improve trade volume, and facilitate his growing population's need for continued job growth, " Salmon said.
"India is one of the world's largest and fastest growing economies. An economically prosperous and regionally engaged India benefits the United States' strategic goals on Asia, " said Bera.
"I'm proud to introduce this bill with my colleagues to promote India's membership in APEC. "
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