Wilson Statement on President Bush’s Trip to India

Today, Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) made the following statement on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives:

"Mr. Speaker, while preparing for his upcoming visit to India, President Bush recently highlighted the unique role India is playing in the 21st century. As the largest democracy in the world and one of the largest economies in the world, India possesses a rare combination of freedom and innovation which is paving the way for the country's bright future.

"The United States already shares a strong strategic partnership with India enhanced by the extraordinary success of 2.2 million Indian Americans. Our nations are working together to defeat the global threat of terrorism, support democracy around the world, and encourage fair trade. Last year, exports from America to India increased by thirty percent, clearly indicating a bright future for U.S. India trade with mutual benefit.

"By traveling to India this week, President Bush is taking another step to cement the bonds of this strong relationship. I appreciate his leadership and am confident that he will witness the same positive developments that I saw during my recent visit to India.

"In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September 11th."

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