On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton stated that the relationship between Washington and India requires improvement and called for closer collaboration on security, trade, and other matters. Clinton is scheduled to travel to India next month and expressed her hope that the two countries could work together on global challenges such as climate change and securing Afghanistan. In a speech to the U.S.-India Business Council, Clinton emphasized the need for an enhanced bilateral relationship, noting that official ties between the two nations are overdue for an upgrade compared to other aspects of cooperation. The previous year saw India and the US sign a groundbreaking civil nuclear agreement, marking the end of a 30-year ban on global nuclear trade with India. The agreement will allow India to purchase nuclear technology and fuel from the global market. In order to strengthen their relationship, the speaker emphasized the need for both Washington and New Delhi to overcome mistrust and address any lingering uncertainties. Concerns were raised by some Americans about potential job loss and lower wages due to increased economic ties with India, while Indians were worried about compromising their country's tradition of independence. The speaker also promised closer economic and trade relations, with negotiations for a bilateral investment treaty set to begin soon, which will create more trade opportunities between the two nations. It was mentioned that President Obama has acknowledged the importance of learning from past mistakes. She stated that the global financial crisis should not be used as a reason to resort to protectionism. Clinton emphasized the need for increased cooperation between the two countries in combatting terrorism and improving intelligence-sharing, without giving specifics. She expressed commitment to helping India enhance its security measures, referencing the American casualties in the Mumbai attacks. Clinton also praised the recent meeting between the leaders of India and Pakistan, the first since the attacks, and expressed confidence that both India and the United States would support Pakistan in its efforts to combat terrorism within its borders.