Washington, July 16: Former Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe has expressed strong support for a robust trade agreement between India and the United States. He emphasized that any agreement should benefit workers and trade equally in both countries.
In an exclusive interview, McAuliffe stated, “You need to create a trade deal that is good for both sides. An agreement cannot be made where only one side emerges as the winner, as that will ultimately lead to losses.”
Serving as Virginia’s governor from 2014 to 2018, the Democratic leader insisted that the final trade agreement should satisfy both nations. He remarked, “Both parties should feel good about the deal, and it should work in the interest of both. When this happens, progress is made, and everyone benefits.”
McAuliffe, a strong proponent of global trade, highlighted that trade agreements should protect workers’ interests while also creating economic opportunities. He noted, “The whole world presents a vast economic and trade opportunity. Countries that do not actively participate will fall behind, and their citizens will suffer.”
During his four-year tenure as governor, McAuliffe led 35 foreign trade missions and attracted 1,100 companies to invest in Virginia. According to him, these investments generated job opportunities in Northern Virginia and the state’s southwestern rural areas.
He also praised the contributions of the Indian-American community in entrepreneurship, technology, and philanthropy. “Their contribution to job creation and entrepreneurship has been extraordinary. But it’s not just about entrepreneurship and jobs; the Indian-American community gives back significantly to society,” he stated.
McAuliffe acknowledged that this community has strengthened America and played a crucial role in establishing the country as a global leader in technology and information technology. “In America, we owe much to immigrants, especially Indian-Americans, who have established businesses and made remarkable contributions to community service and philanthropy,” he added.
He criticized the Trump administration’s rhetoric on immigration, asserting that America has always benefited from new immigrants, particularly Indian-Americans. “Unfortunately, the current administration has fostered an environment against immigrants, which is very unfortunate,” he said.
McAuliffe emphasized that America is a “better country” because of the immigrants who have come here, particularly the Indian-American community, which has made the nation stronger. He stated that while the country’s borders should remain secure and legal entry for immigrants should be ensured, America’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths.
“We are a ‘melting pot,’ and that diversity makes us even stronger,” he concluded.
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