Washington, Jan 13 (IANS): The US-India Business Council (USIBC) has named Punit Renjen, CEO of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (Deloitte Global),and Edward Monser, President of Emerson, as USIBC Vice Chairs to further build on US-India relationship.

The leading business advocacy organization comprised of 350 top-tier US and Indian companies advancing US-India commercial ties recently appointed former Cisco CEO John Chamber as USIBC Chairman.

Chambers, immediate past USIBC Chairman and CEO of MasterCard Ajay Banga, and Edward Monser, will embark on the USIBC Chairman's Executive Mission to India in mid-February, and also participate in the inaugural Make in India week.

I believe that there are tremendous opportunities this year to build on the US-India relationship," said Monser. "With India's push for advancement across industries, and initiatives like Make in India gaining momentum, I see several channels for collaboration, exchange of ideas, and exchange of technology between the two countries."

"I am optimistic about the continued trajectory of US-India relations and the positive impact this will have, not only for our two countries, but indeed for the world," said Punit Renjen.

"In growing the exchange of talent between our two countries and further opening channels for increased trade and investment, we will be able to deepen innovation, create high-quality jobs and fuel our industries' global competitiveness for the 21st century."

Congratulating the "two great business leaders," USIBC President Mukesh Aghi said: "Together, with our combined experience, we can tackle some of the most difficult challenges on both sides.

"We have already seen the expansion of FDI into the media and entertainment, single brand retail, and defense sectors. Indian states are also actively reaching out to investors here in the US, showcasing the power of competitive federalism.

High on the priority list this year includes the passage of the Goods and Services Tax and land acquisition reform in India, as well as growing the manufacturing sector in order to consolidate India's presence as a key player in the global economy."

Chambers said the two new appointees "have done great work in promoting trade between our two countries" and "Our job for this year is to build on this momentum and shape and further the Council's priorities."

"We still have challenges ahead and there are areas we must discuss, however, I am positive we can do so in a way that befits our community and our leaders' ambitions."