During his college years, Eric Garcetti stayed at the U.S. Embassy in India for the first time after being invited by a friend’s father, who was the U.S. Ambassador. Little did he know that years later, the embassy would become his home.
In 2023, Garcetti was confirmed as the U.S. Ambassador to India and shared anecdotes from his personal connection with the country during a conversation with Skift CEO Rafat Ali at the Skift India Summit on March 13. He previously served as the mayor of Los Angeles from 2013 to 2022.
Garcetti discussed efforts in promoting U.S.-India relations, visa wait times, tourism, and more, highlighting some key points in the conversation with Skift. Watch the full interviewhere.
Garcetti’s first trip to India was at age 14.
Garcetti: In 1985, at the age of 14, I visited India for the first time, with my family exploring places like Delhi, Bombay, and Udaipur. It was a memorable experience that captured my heart.
Garcetti returned to India at age 19.
Garcetti: At the age of 19, I returned to India, staying at the U.S. embassy with the U.S. Ambassador, not knowing that one day I would hold that position myself.
U.S. President Joe Biden asked Garcetti to improve long visa wait times for Indians.
Garcetti: President Biden requested my focus on reducing visa wait times, emphasizing the importance of this issue for Indians. We have made significant progress, reducing the wait time from 1,000 days to around 250 days.
The embassy has reduced the visa wait time from 1,000 to 250 days.
Garcetti: In less than a year, we have increased visa adjudication and reduced wait times, making it more efficient for Indians to obtain visas for travel to the U.S.
Indians are more interested in visiting the U.S. than the reverse, but Garcetti believes that is changing.
Garcetti: The U.S.-India relationship should be a two-way street, with more Americans exploring India. There is a growing interest in India among Americans, fostering a stronger connection between the two countries.
Garcetti likes to connect with Indians through food.
Garcetti: Food is a great way to connect with people, and Indian cuisine is diverse and rich in flavors. I have explored different states and territories in India through their food, creating a cultural connection.
The infrastructure for travel in India is improving, which will help boost tourism.
India’s focus on expanding airport infrastructure and improving airline services will contribute to promoting India as a tourist destination. The growth in travel infrastructure is vital for enhancing tourism experiences in India.
Garcetti played a key role in bringing cricket to the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.
Garcetti: The inclusion of cricket in the 2028 Olympics was a milestone achieved during my tenure, bridging cultures and showcasing the sport to a global audience. This decision has also contributed to the growth of cricket infrastructure in Los Angeles.
Cricket holds significant economic potential.
Garcetti: Cricket has a high value in terms of economic opportunities, with lucrative investments and commercial interests. The sport’s popularity and financial gains make it a promising sector for future growth and development.
‘The Indian dream is what we used to refer to as the American dream.’
The U.S.-India relationship is crucial, embodying the essence of dreams and aspirations. The success and contributions of Indian Americans reflect the shared values and opportunities that define the American and Indian dreams. Embracing cross-cultural exchanges and learning from each other can strengthen both nations.
