India and US to Launch Gandhi-King Development Foundation

New Delhi, India – India and the United States have signed a statement of intent to establish the Gandhi-King Development Foundation (GKDF) by October this year. This foundation aims to tackle global development challenges.

Key Figures and Events

The statement was signed during the visit of US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to India. This initiative builds on the US Congress’s passage of the Gandhi-King Scholarly Exchange Initiative Act in December 2020, sponsored by Representative Gregory W. Meeks.

Shared Principles

US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, highlighted that the foundation is based on the principles of Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr., who both promoted non-violent resistance and civil rights. Garcetti emphasized the shared commitment of both countries to global progress.

Statements from Key Figures

USAID Deputy Assistant Administrator for Asia, Anjali Kaur, who signed the Statement of Intent in New Delhi, stated that the foundation will promote inclusive and sustainable development. US Congressman Gregory W. Meeks expressed his gratitude for being part of this initiative, which he believes will strengthen the bonds between the two nations.

Foundation’s Goals

The Gandhi-King Development Foundation will operate in India, using public and private resources to address various issues such as climate change, tuberculosis, water and sanitation, air pollution, education, and women’s economic empowerment.

According to the US Embassy in India, the foundation represents a groundbreaking partnership between the United States and India to address global development challenges.