US Envoy on India’s Probe into Pannun Plot: Very Positive but Not Yet Closed

NEW DELHI: Outgoing US Ambassador Eric Garcetti praised India’s efforts in investigating the foiled plot to kill US-based Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun as a “very positive first step,” but cautioned that the matter is not yet fully resolved. In an interview, Garcetti highlighted the need for further action and addressed ongoing issues such as the nuclear liability law impacting civil nuclear cooperation with the US.

India’s Enquiry Committee Report

Garcetti emphasized that while the report is significant, it marks the beginning of the process rather than the end. “We haven’t seen the report yet, but it’s a very positive step. It’s the delivery of what India promised – accountability and systemic reforms,” he stated. “India has taken US concerns seriously, and this is a clear indication of that commitment.”

The report, which addresses the plot against Pannun, also includes recommendations for further action. Garcetti noted, “This opens up the path, but it’s not a closed chapter for India or for America. The report itself says it is recommending action, so those actions presumably will have to be taken.”

Comparison with Canada

When comparing India’s efforts with those of Canada in similar situations, Garcetti maintained that each nation’s criminal justice system operates independently. “Both Canada and the US have pursued these things independently, and independent from political interference. The criminal justice system is sovereign,” he clarified.

Garcetti expressed hope for rapprochement between India and Canada, emphasizing mutual respect and accountability. “We’ve been pretty consistent about being open to that. But we’ve also been clear, out of respect, these are two sovereign states that will talk to each other and often have to take the actions they need to take.”

Nuclear Liability Law

Addressing the nuclear liability law, a key issue for India-US collaboration, Garcetti noted that while it remains a challenge, both nations are committed to finding a solution. “The nuclear agreement opened the chapter that we are now in some ways closing. A generation ago, this close, this deep of a relationship between the US and India was unimaginable. A generation from now, it’ll be seen as indispensable.”

However, the issue of liability for civil nuclear activity remains unresolved. “Prime Minister Modi and President Biden spoke about it, and we still have some steps to take. This is a step in investing in that, of saying look, we can continue to not deliver the promise of that accord for American nuclear companies, or we can figure out ways to work together.”

India-US Technology Collaboration

The India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) has seen significant progress, with American semiconductor investments, telecommunications systems without Chinese equipment, and advancements in space and defense. Garcetti commented, “We’ve seen record semiconductor investments from American companies here, we’ve seen telecommunication systems without Chinese equipment, open RAN [radio access network] systems built out by Indian companies.”

He added, “In the space and defence sector, I couldn’t imagine it would go as quickly as it did, whether it’s a satellite we’re putting into space together, or an astronaut or new weapon systems or the best engines ever made in the world that we’re sharing with India for the next generation of fighter jets.”

Trade and Future Challenges

Garcetti acknowledged potential roadblocks in the relationship but remains optimistic. “The trade conversation is a good one. Now that we’ve resolved all the trade disputes that we had, that were outstanding, we’ve set the table for a feast. It cannot be that we let our bureaucracies take baby steps,” he stated.

Regarding President-elect Trump’s comments on imposing reciprocal tariffs on India, Garcetti suggested that constructive dialogue could mitigate potential conflicts. “President Trump’s words help us elevate a more honest conversation,” he said. “It’s about getting bigger, bolder, and ambitious in our collaborations.”

Reflections on Garcetti’s Stint in India

Garcetti expressed no regrets about his tenure in India, highlighting the numerous achievements and strong alignment between the two countries. “Besides putting cricket into the Olympics? Literally zero regrets,” he remarked.

He emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections, stating, “This isn’t about leaders. Even though we’ve had great ones, the most pro-Indian president in history, the most pro-American prime minister in history. This is about our people demanding it. This is about cutting through the BS and saying when we have more Indians who have come to America, we’ve been stronger as a country.”

Garcetti concluded by expressing his commitment to the India-US relationship, stating, “This is something I’m in for life, and I know that our countries are as well.”

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