Washington, Dec 21 (IANS): Noting that the dynamic and productive US-India relationship continues to grow from strength to strength, a leading US lawmaker believes this partnership will play a major role in US foreign policy.

"This is good news for the United States and the State of Mississippi," wrote Roger Wicker, top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower, who represents Mississippi in the Senate, in the Asia Pacific bulletin of the East West Centre.

Noting "India's growing importance on the world stage, in particular its influence as an anchor of democracy and stability in Asia," he wrote "Allies and strategic alliances are the best force multipliers as the United States confronts the emerging threats of the 21st century."

India and the United States share many security concerns, Wicker wrote citing "the scourge of transnational terrorism, the necessity of a stable and secure Afghanistan, the uncertainties of an increasingly belligerent Iran, along with a Chinese military eager to expand its influence, are some of the diverse and complex challenges both nations face."

"As US troops withdraw from Afghanistan, continued vigilance is essential to keeping terrorist networks from finding a haven there, and no doubt India will continue to be a major player in promoting regional and global security," he wrote.

A large labour force and strong base for high-tech industry have made India a key US partner for trade in goods and services valued at almost $100 billion--up from only $18 billion in 2001, over a five-fold increase in a decade, Wicker wrote.

"Furthermore, the importance of the Indian Ocean for global trade and commerce will only continue to grow, which will require maritime strength and preparedness in maintaining open Sea Lanes of Communication, another shared US-India goal," he wrote.

Suggesting that "US future defence strategy should recognize the power of collaborating with proven and steady allies like India," Wicker wrote that a cooperative defence trade relationship requires a serious commitment from the United States to the modernisation of its Cold War-era export control system.

"In turn, India must be committed to a fair and open defence acquisition process that upholds transparency and interoperability with friends and partners," he concluded.