Geoffrey R. Pyatt, US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, compared US-Indian trade relations to a "Puri" - a transformation from a "Chapati" to a "Puri".

US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources Geoffrey R. Pyatt commended the Indian Navy's recent actions against the Houthis in a statement on Monday. Pyatt emphasized that such actions underscore India's role as a significant security provider in the broader region, which, in turn, contributes to the interests of the United States.

Addressing a query from ANI regarding the state of energy security in the context of the ongoing global crisis, Pyatt remarked that they were currently navigating an era marked by unparalleled upheaval within the international framework. The redirection of containerized shipping routes had engendered significant ramifications, notably on inflation rates. In response to a Houthi missile strike, the Indian Navy had swiftly intervened to salvage a tanker engulfed in flames. Pyatt noted that this demonstration of operational prowess underscored India's stature as a pivotal security contributor in the broader regional context. This dynamic undoubtedly aligned with the strategic interests of the United States.

Pyatt conveyed that negotiations regarding a free trade agreement between the United States and India need to continue. However, he emphasized the continuation of significant discussions aimed at facilitating further deepening of the trade relationship between the two nations.

During his recent visit to India, Pyatt conveyed that US-India trade relations have evolved significantly, moving beyond simple analogies such as a 'Chapati' to resemble a more substantial and expanded dynamic akin to a 'Puri.' Additionally, he discussed the importance of the iCET framework in facilitating cooperation between the two countries in high technology areas, emphasizing the recent addition of critical minerals and clean energy technology to bolster collaboration further. Pyatt further elaborated on his meeting with Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, highlighting the broad-ranging discussion on mutual interests in energy security, stability in global energy markets, geopolitical concerns as well as challenges posed by other regional issues such as those in the Red Sea, Iran, and Venezuela. He underscored the shared commitment of the United States and India to ensure stability in global energy markets while minimizing carbon emissions. US Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, Geoffrey R Pyatt, visited India on January 26 to participate in discussions at the India-US Forum, addressing shared energy priorities alongside other pressing challenges.

During his visit to India, Mr. Pyatt conducted engagements in New Delhi and Hyderabad, including participation in two panels at the India-US Forum. As conveyed by a US Department of State statement, the panels centered on shared energy priorities and various challenges.

Discussions in New Delhi specifically addressed shared energy priorities and challenges on critical minerals in the context of the global energy transition.

The discussions emphasized the increasing significance of bilateral energy cooperation, highlighting the mutual interest in clean energy initiatives. Both nations acknowledged the positive trajectory of energy trade between them and reiterated the importance of clean energy collaboration. Furthermore, they recognized the accomplishments of the US-India Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP) in bolstering energy security, fostering clean energy innovation, addressing climate change, and generating employment opportunities.

The bilateral relationship between India and the United States is characterized by a comprehensive global strategic partnership encompassing diverse domains underpinned by shared democratic principles, converging interests, and robust people-to-people exchanges.