New DelhI:

The United States’ Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti visited the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) headquarters in Bengaluru on Saturday, as both countries continue to enhance cooperation in the field of space.

During his meeting with ISRO Chairman S. Somanath, the US Ambassador expressed his admiration for the organisation’s accomplishments and its role in global space exploration.

“The discussions highlighted both countries’ mutual interests and shared goals in advancing space science, technology, and the space economy. Ongoing associations through various Joint Working Groups, Artemis Accord, NISAR, and the use of the Laser Reflectometer Array on Chandrayaan-3 were also discussed,” ISRO said in a statement after the meeting.

Under iCET, the two countries have unveiled a roadmap for increased collaboration in high-technology fields. The initiative focuses on addressing regulatory barriers, aligning export controls, and encouraging deeper cooperation in crucial and emerging fields.

Future programmes, including the exchange visits of both sides’ professionals, continuation of balloon experiments, and identifying milestone events, were also discussed as ISRO emphasised the need to address access to critical components and items to expedite collaborative missions.

“Ambassador Garcetti inquired about the role played by the Department of Space in fostering commercial space activities. Chairman Somanath elaborated on this, mentioning that for the first time, payload technology and space-bound hardware are being built in Indian facilities that are outside ISRO labs. ISRO plans to source payloads and satellites for its programmes from Indian companies and enable them to enter the global market,” added the ISRO statement.

The organisation detailed that other significant discussions between both sides focused on NASA’s participation in India’s proposal for a G-20 satellite for environment and climate change, an advanced imaging spectrometer satellite as a follow-up mission for NISAR, and encouragement of cooperation between commercial companies from both countries for quicker and more effective outcomes, Gaganyaan cargo module as an option for transfer of cargo to International Space Station.

“The US Ambassador has also proposed a QUAD satellite. Chairman, ISRO pointed out the opportunity to develop advanced detectors and packaging technologies with US-India academic institutions. He emphasised building and standardising docking interfaces across human space programmes to enable the utilisation of space platforms by other countries and joining hands to build a navigation system on the moon, either in orbit or on the surface,” said ISRO.

Garcetti’s visit concluded with a commitment to further strengthen the partnership between India and the United States in the field of space.

“Honoured to meet ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath and team! From advancing NISAR satellite to fostering human spaceflight and promoting commercial space endeavours, the US-India Space commitment stands strong and is advancing our shared goals within the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET),” the US Ambassador posted on X.

Honored to meet @ISRO Chairman Dr. S. Somanath and team! From advancing
#NISAR satellite to fostering human spaceflight and promoting commercial space endeavors, the #USIndiaSpace commitment stands strong and is advancing our shared goals within the #USIndia Initiative on… pic.twitter.com/UqaI1K5sZt

— U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti (@USAmbIndia) May 25, 2024

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

New Delhi:

United States Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, celebrated his one-year anniversary in the role, reflecting on his remarkable journey and accomplishments during his tenure.

“I never dreamed I’d have the honour and privilege of representing my country here in India, but what a year it’s been,” remarked Garcetti, expressing gratitude for the opportunity.

Throughout the past year, Garcetti has traversed across 22 states and union territories, fostering friendships, receiving notable gifts, and savouring the diverse culinary offerings.

“From Mumbai to Kohima, I picked up some amazing friends, received incredible gifts, and of course, enjoyed some great food,” he recounted, highlighting the enriching experiences of his travels.

One year as U.S. Ambassador to India! What a ride it’s been – a whirlwind of diplomacy and deepening friendships! From diving into vibrant cultures to strengthening the bond between our nations, every moment has been incredible. But it’s the warmth of the people and our shared… pic.twitter.com/YJWxobacCK

— U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti (@USAmbIndia) May 13, 2024

Trade emerged as a cornerstone of bilateral relations, with Garcetti noting, “It was a banner year for trade,” emphasising the substantial volume of trade, valued at nearly USD 200 billion, and efforts to reduce tariffs to promote economic growth. “That’s a lot of almonds for a lot of mangoes,” Garcetti quipped, showcasing the magnitude of trade exchanges between the two nations.

In the realm of India-US defence cooperation, Garcetti celebrated record military exercises aimed at enhancing peace and interoperability between the United States and India. “From the seabed to the stars, the India-US relationship is reaching new heights,” he affirmed, highlighting collaborations in space exploration, including the joint development of a satellite set to launch later in the year.

Environmental sustainability emerged as another focal point, with Garcetti commending joint efforts to expand climate resilience and solutions, such as financing 10,000 new electric buses and establishing the largest solar manufacturing plant in southern India with US assistance. “We’re making sure we walk the green walk, not just the green talk,” he asserted, underscoring commitments to environmental stewardship.

Addressing healthcare cooperation, Garcetti highlighted collaborative endeavours in vaccine development for diseases like dengue and malaria, showcasing the shared commitment to global health security. Furthermore, he lauded efforts to streamline visa processing, significantly reducing wait times and increasing the number of visas issued, making Indians the leading source of international students.

As he concluded his remarks, the US envoy expressed optimism for the future of the US-India partnership.

“If we did this much in one year, I can’t wait to see what’s next,” he remarked, underscoring the enduring bond between the two nations and the limitless potential of collaboration.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)