Washington | Jan 16, 2026

As India-US trade negotiations continue without resolution, US Congressman Rich McCormick, a Republican, defended India’s economic and strategic choices, saying that the country not only receives investments from the US but also brings them.

Speaking at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), McCormick highlighted the “bipartisan relationship” between the two democracies and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for acting in India’s national interest. He noted that Modi’s purchase of Russian oil, while controversial internationally, is intended to secure cheap energy to boost India’s economy.

“If you understand some of the things that frustrate us when they buy cheap Russian oil—it basically funds a war in Ukraine—we hate that. But he’s doing it for the best interest of his country, so he can expand his economy with cheap energy,” McCormick said.

The Congressman also emphasised India’s growing global economic influence. “We are the world’s biggest consumer with a $30 trillion economy. India has not even passed Germany yet—they are about fourth, just past Japan—but they are coming up on Germany and will eventually advance on China,” he said. McCormick criticised China’s approach to trade, saying Beijing has “cheated their way to the top through the World Trade Organization.”

McCormick underlined India’s role as both a recipient and source of investment, contrasting it with Pakistan. “Pakistan has almost 300 million people too, but they don’t bring investment here, and vice versa,” he said. He added that India is not just importing capital but also exporting talent and establishing itself as a dominant economic power in multiple regions.

Highlighting India’s achievements in science and technology, McCormick praised the country’s space program, citing the successful landing of a spacecraft on the dark side of the moon for under $80 million—a feat he contrasted with US capabilities.

The remarks came alongside a recent discussion between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and US Senator Marco Rubio on trade, defence, and security. The US State Department confirmed that the talks focused on “ongoing bilateral trade agreement negotiations and their shared interest in strengthening economic cooperation,” though no specific details were disclosed.

McCormick’s comments underscore the recognition in US political circles of India as a strategic partner and growing global economic force, even amid stalled trade talks.

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