Speeches and Remarks 2013
OFFICIAL TEXT
(As Prepared for Delivery)
February 06, 2013
Remarks of Ambassador Nancy Powell at Aero India 2013 U.S. Pavilion Ribbon Cutting
BANGALORE: Good afternoon. Thank you for that introduction. I also want to express appreciation for everyone who put together this great U.S. pavilion in Hall E that showcases many of the American firms here at Aero India and stands as a testament to the level of commitment that U.S. firms have to partnering in India. And thanks to all of you for coming to the opening of this pavilion. The U.S. Department of Commerce has certified this show to endorse and support U.S. firms exhibiting in the premiere defense aerospace event in South Asia.
This is just one indication of how the U.S. Government and our Mission in India stand beside you as you embrace the opportunities and tackle the challenges in the Indian defense sector. I want you to know that the U.S. Government and our Mission in India stand beside you as you embrace the opportunities of the Indian defense sector.
The U.S. Government understands the challenges industry faces with the pace of contract negotiations and program execution, the complexity of executing offset obligations, and obstacles to transfer of technology. We are working with the Government of India and the private sector in both India and the U.S. to reduce obstacles, overcome challenges, and foster development of the defense and aerospace sectors to the benefit of both nations.
As you know, our defense relationship has continued at a strong pace. C-17, C-130J, and P8I procurements are now being executed. In fact, the Indian Air Force (IAF) recently received its first Boeing C-17 strategic airlifter for flight testing. And in 2011, the first C-130Js proved vital to the Government of India’s all-weather humanitarian relief requirements during the Sikkim earthquake.
Our growing defense partnership is one of our greatest success stories, leveraging the best innovative efforts of our governments, people, and industries into closer cooperation on regional and global security challenges, as well as the economic advancement for the people of both our countries.
The collaboration between our two countries in the defense marketplace is evident here today. The U.S. companies participating at this show have demonstrated a commitment to partner with India on its goal of modernizing and upgrading its defense aerospace capabilities.
Of course, the most important and enduring aspect to our growing relationship with India is our people-to-people ties for which we have all of you here today and many others to thank.
Your presence at Aero India 2013, and the cooperation and relationships that will flow from your participation here puts us firmly on the path to achieving our mutual goals. For that, and all you will achieve during your time here, I congratulate you.