March 23:
Those who knew or observed India's most recent ambassador to the United States during his three years in this country—as well as during his prior assignments in Washington, D.C.—praised him.
Speaking during Ambassador Sandhu's goodbye reception in January 2024, US Senator Mark Warner, who has known Ambassador Sandhu for a long time, said, "Ambassador Sandhu and I had lots and lots of conversations, when there have been big challenges in our relationship." We have always been honest with one another, treated each other as friends, and understood that the fundamental principles of our two nations' friendship are decency, democracy, and innovation. "And I will make one prediction that while Ambassador Sandhu may be leaving this post, I believe, and I hope with all my heart that he has more public service in his future," the statement continued.
Jesse Singh, the founder and chairman of Sikhs of America-USA, told News India Times I've been acquainted with Ambassador Sandhu for a number of years. In India-US relations, he is a reputable diplomat and a powerful personality who has always been concerned about the welfare of the Sikh community. He was crucial in arranging for the Sikh team to meet with Prime Minister Modi in 2014 and in assisting us in voicing our concerns to him. Ambassador Sandhu is aware of Prime Minister Modi's goals for India, and I believe the BJP did the right thing by welcoming him into the fold.
Narasimha Koppula, a trustee of the Hindu University of America, told News India Times For decades, Ambassador Sandhu dedicated his life to advancing US-India ties. He is full of energy and has so much more to offer Bharat. It is greatly appreciated that he decided to enter politics and join the BJP. He has the potential to significantly benefit Punjab BJP and steer the state in the correct way.
Alok Srivastava, Executive Director of the American Hindu Coalition, told News India Times, "I'm thrilled to learn that Ambassador Sandhu is joining the BJP." Undoubtedly, his extensive background in international affairs will be a great asset to the BJP and to India overall.
Srivastava went on to say that during his tenure, which included three postings in Washington, DC, and one at the UN in New York, Ambassador Sandhu shown his skill at managing complicated challenges. "The United States and India have benefited much from his commitment and diligence. His work in establishing a customer-focused culture in the US Visa and Counsellor services and encouraging face-to-face communication with the Indian diaspora are especially noteworthy.
Srivastava stated that despite the difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, Ambassador Sandhu's "dedication remained unwavering." He also stated that Ambassador Sandhu "played a pivotal role in facilitating the procurement of essential Covid medicines and aid for India through innovative measures such as video conferences."
"Ambassador Sandhu's contributions were crucial to Prime Minister Modi's incredibly successful state visit last year," Srivastava continued. "I have no doubt that Ambassador Sandhu will be given important tasks by Prime Minister Modi that are in line with our common objectives of promoting entrepreneurship—a topic that both the US and India support. Because of his humility and commitment, Ambassador Sandhu is a great value to the country, and I hope he continues to shape India's international relations.
