Strengthening US-India ties: A game-changer for North Carolina's future

In early June, I had the privilege of attending the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C., at the invitation of Chair John Chambers.

As our world becomes more interconnected, few relationships hold greater promise for innovation, economic growth and global stability than the strategic partnership between the United States and India.

This year’s summit highlighted just how critical this relationship is — not only on the global stage but for states like North Carolina, which stand to benefit tremendously from deeper ties with India in technology, investment and workforce collaboration.

One of the most insightful moments of the summit was John Chambers’ fireside chat with second lady Usha Vance. Her story reflects the growing impact of the Indian American community and the importance of fostering global understanding in our increasingly diverse society. Their conversation underscored how collaboration, innovation, and shared values can drive opportunity for the next generation — values that are at the core of both American and Indian entrepreneurial spirit.

The evening also celebrated IBM CEO Arvind Krishna with the USISPF Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing not only his leadership at one of the world’s most influential tech companies but also his role in building bridges between U.S. and Indian technology ecosystems. His success story is yet another example of how talent and innovation from India continue to shape the global economy — and how US businesses, including those here in North Carolina, can benefit from that collaboration.

What does this mean for North Carolina?

Opportunity.

India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and a global leader in technology, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing — all sectors where North Carolina is rapidly emerging as a national hub. We have world-class universities, a thriving research ecosystem, and a diverse, highly skilled workforce. By deepening partnerships with India, we can attract more investment, create jobs, and enhance innovation across our state.

Already, companies with strong Indian ties like Infosys, HCLTech and Bharat Forge are driving growth in our region. And I continue to be excited that our Economic Development Partnership has an office in Bengeleru, India to drive more investment to our state.  

There is much more we can do to position North Carolina as a key destination for Indian investment and as a strategic partner in areas like AI, clean energy, biotech, and digital infrastructure. All the more reason for Governor Stein to change the trend and lead a trade mission to India.   No Governor of NC has gone to India.   There has never been a better time than now.

The U.S.-India relationship is much more than geopolitics —  and as Prime Minister Modi has stated on his last state visit to the US,  “For the world, AI means artificial intelligence, but for me, AI also means American-Indian spirit.

This partnership is about real, tangible economic opportunities. As someone passionate about building North Carolina’s innovation economy, I believe we must be proactive in fostering these global connections.  

The future is global — and partnerships like the one between the United States and India will be at the heart of driving inclusive, sustainable growth.

Let’s ensure North Carolina is leading the way.

Steve S. Rao is a councilmember at large and former mayor pro tem for the Town of Morrisville and a regular contributor to WRAL Tech Wire.