New Jersey Governor Creates Commission to Strengthen India Ties

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has established a commission dedicated to enhancing trade, investment, and cultural connections between New Jersey and India. The commission, led by former US diplomat Wesley Mathews, aims to foster long-term economic growth and promote cultural and educational exchanges between the two regions.

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has taken a significant step in fostering closer relations with India by signing an executive order to establish the New Jersey-India Commission. This commission will play a pivotal role in advancing bilateral trade, investment, and cultural ties between New Jersey and the world's largest democracy.

Promoting Cultural and Economic Ties

The New Jersey-India Commission, headed by former US diplomat Wesley Mathews, comprises over 40 members dedicated to strengthening the cultural and economic bonds between New Jersey and India. Governor Murphy expressed his honor in establishing this commission, emphasizing its long-term impact on the relationship between the two regions.

Drawing from the successful visit to India in 2019, Murphy highlighted the shared economic strengths that New Jersey and India possess. He acknowledged the immense contributions of the Indian immigrant population in New Jersey and expressed his commitment to seizing new opportunities for mutual growth and innovation.

Fostering Dynamic Convergence

Consul General of India Binaya Srikanta Pradhan welcomed the establishment of the New Jersey-India Commission, describing it as a unique partnership with immense potential. He emphasized the convergence of India's economic resilience, the presence of a thriving Indian-American community, and America's spirit of innovation. This combination creates a landscape ripe with opportunities across various sectors.

Pradhan noted that Governor Murphy's initiative would further strengthen the existing high level of economic engagement between New Jersey and India, which includes over USD10 billion in trade and significant two-way investments. Additionally, it would enhance the strong people-to-people connections in areas such as education and knowledge partnership.

India's Significant Role in New Jersey

India holds a prominent position in New Jersey's economy, being its second-largest foreign direct investor. A substantial portion of New Jersey's immigrant population originates from India, contributing to the state's cultural and economic fabric.

In 2019, Governor Murphy led an economic mission to India, resulting in the creation of over 1,200 new jobs through the expansion of three Indian companies in New Jersey. Over the past two decades, India has invested USD2 billion in New Jersey, generating nearly 6,000 jobs in key sectors like life sciences and technology.

Shared Visions for the Future

Wesley Mathews, Chair of the New Jersey-India Commission, expressed his excitement about the establishment of the commission. He highlighted the successful economic missions to India undertaken by the state since 2019, as well as the establishment of sister-state relationships and MOUs across various sectors. These initiatives demonstrate the shared visions and goals of New Jersey and India for their economies and people.

The New Jersey-India Commission will provide valuable advice to the Governor and other government agencies and departments, ensuring that the partnership between New Jersey and India continues to flourish and reach new heights.

The establishment of the New Jersey-India Commission marks a significant milestone in the relationship between New Jersey and India. By fostering cultural and educational exchanges, promoting sustainable economic growth, and leveraging the strengths of both regions, this commission will pave the way for a dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership for generations to come.