News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/19th July 2024
On July 19, 2024, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the appointment of Vinay Mohan Kwatra as the new Ambassador of India to the United States. This decision follows Kwatra’s recent retirement as India’s Foreign Secretary, a role he held until July 15, 2024, when he was succeeded by Vikram Misri.
Kwatra, a seasoned diplomat from the 1988 batch of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), has been a prominent figure in Indian diplomacy. His new assignment in Washington, D.C., fills the position that became vacant after Taranjit Sandhu’s retirement earlier in January 2024. Kwatra’s extensive career includes significant roles both domestically and internationally, positioning him as a well-suited candidate for this prestigious posting.
Before his appointment as Foreign Secretary, Kwatra had a diverse and distinguished career in diplomacy. His previous roles include serving in crucial positions in China and the United States, as well as a notable stint as India’s Ambassador to France from August 2017 to February 2020. His experience also extends to the Indian consulate in Durban and diplomatic postings in China and Russia.
Kwatra’s expertise is not limited to traditional diplomatic roles. He has also been involved in economic, trade, and finance issues as part of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and played a significant role in India’s development programs in Afghanistan. His comprehensive background also includes a tenure as the head of policy planning and research at the MEA, as well as a period as Joint Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office from 2015 to 2017.
Kwatra’s academic credentials further bolster his appointment. He holds a postgraduate degree in science and is fluent in several languages, including French, Russian, Hindi, and English. Additionally, he has an International Relations Diploma from the Graduate School of International Studies in Geneva. His multilingual abilities and extensive educational background complement his practical experience, enhancing his readiness for his new role.
Between May 2010 and July 2013, Kwatra served as the Minister (Commerce) at the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C., a role that provided him with valuable insights into U.S.-India relations. He also led the Americas Division in the Foreign Ministry and headed the policy planning & research division before his appointment as Foreign Secretary.
As Kwatra prepares to take up his new role as Ambassador to the U.S., his vast experience and deep understanding of international diplomacy are expected to strengthen the bilateral ties between India and the United States. His appointment is seen as a strategic move by the Indian government to enhance its diplomatic engagement with one of its key global partners.
