'India-US Relationship Built On Strong Foundation': White House Expresses Confidence In Navigating Through Adani Issue

Highlighting the robust foundation of India-US relations, the White House has expressed confidence in its ability to manage the ongoing controversy surrounding bribery allegations against Indian billionaire Gautam Adani.

During a press briefing on Thursday (21 November), White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre acknowledged the administration's awareness of the charges against Adani, The Hindu reported.

Adani is accused by US prosecutors of being involved in a scheme to pay over $250 million (approximately Rs 2,100 crore) in bribes to Indian officials to secure favorable terms for solar power contracts.

Responding to this, Jean-Pierre said that she would have to refer you to the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) and DOJ (Department of Justice) about the specifics of those allegations against the Adani Group.

On the US and India relationship, she said, "We believe that it stands on an extremely strong foundation anchored in ties between our people and cooperation across a full range of global issues."

Expressing her confidence in navigating the Adani issue, she said. "The specifics of this, this is something that the SEC and DOJ can speak to directly, but again, we believe that…this relationship between India and the US has been built on a strong foundation."