Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Pittsburgh, India

Recently, U.S. Senator Bob Casey spoke to the Pittsburgh Indian community, promising to join the U.S. Senate India Caucus (a.k.a. Friends of India). I figure that this is a no-brainer for Casey since his predecessor was a member and that current Senator Arlen Specter is a member. Better late than never, but...

He did indicate his lack of familiarity with the Indian/US relationship as he just started his first term in the U.S. Senate. However, he did promise to work with the Indian community and learn more about India. Jofy Joseph (an Indian) is on his staff as foreign relation expert.

I am disturbed by Senator Casey's professed ignorance. Casey is on the Foreign Relations committee and, despite being from the other end of the state, was Pennsylvania's Treasurer. Casey's oversight suggests to me that Pittsburgh could do a better job of promoting its links to India, particularly at the state level.

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