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VIDEO: Ambassador Kirk Talks About Trade Relations with India

Ambassador Kirk is meeting with Indian Commerce Minister Anand Sharma this afternoon. In preparation for this meeting, Ambassador Kirk recorded a short video about U.S.-India trade relations. Watch the video below.

Read Ambassador Kirk's remarks below.

"Despite our distance, India and America have much in common. We share a Democratic lineage and a cross-cultural respect for freedom and self-government.

India has distinguished itself with rich cultural traditions and is fast becoming a global leader, as well as a steadfast ally.

India is also one of our largest and most important trading partners. In 2008, the total value of goods traded between India and the United States totaled $41 Billion.

But I know that number can be higher. By improving market access to India, we can create new jobs in America. And trade liberalization with India would permit increased American Foreign Direct Investment, to the benefit of both India and America.

I am working with Indian leaders to realize these opportunities.

This week I will be meeting with Minister Sharma to discuss relevant bilateral and multilateral trade and investment issues, as we prepare for the upcoming Trade Policy Forum. In particular, the bilateral investment treaty will facilitate benefits for both countries.

This will be the latest in a series of productive meetings. In September, I traveled to India for a meeting of trade ministers to find a way forward on the Doha Development agenda.

And I am committed to finding new approaches to the Doha negotiations.

I look forward to working closely with Minister Sharma. Because I know that we share a desire to build on the progress that's been made.

We won't agree on every option, but I am optimistic that together we will be able to find imaginative solutions.

The Doha round promises meaningful market access and enhanced trade flows. That is why it is so crucial that these talks succeed.

And I am sure that our shared perspectives will enable India and America to make progress in our bilateral and multilateral endeavors."