In United States, a bipartisan group of half a dozen influential US lawmakers has reintroduced an important legislation in the House of Representatives which seeks to advance the US-India strategic relationship. <br />''<br />''If enacted, the legislation would ensure that the US State Department treat India as a NATO ally for the purposes of the Arms Export Control Act.<br />''<br />'' It would send a powerful signal that defence sales to India should be prioritised according to US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, which had worked on this important legislation. <br />''<br />''The bill HR 2123 was introduced this week by Congressman Joe Wilson, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Mr. Wilson said India is the world's largest democracy, a pillar of stability in the region, and has shown strong commitments to export control policies.<br />'' <br />''The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for fiscal 2017 included special language recognising the unique US-India defence relationship that designated India as a "Major Defence Partner" of the United States. The legislation bolsters national security and helps ensure full alignment between the Department of Defence and the Department of State. <br />''<br />''To fulfil the spirit and intent of the NDAA 2017, the US-India Enhanced Cooperation Act would amend the Arms Export Control Act to put India on par with NATO allies and Israel, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia and Japan.<br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">US-India Strategic Partnership Forum Chairman John Chambers said this legislation would be a major breakthrough for the US-India defense relationship.</span><br />