The Indian Embassy in Washington recently hired an American lobbying firm, SHW Partners LLC, to help it connect with the Trump administration on various issues. This includes discussions about a proposed trade deal and the media coverage surrounding Operation Sindoor. The firm officially reported its activities to the US Department of Justice under the Foreign Agent Registration Act (FARA).
The Indian Embassy stated that it’s common for foreign missions and businesses in the US to hire lobbyists. Their filings indicated that SHW Partners assisted the embassy from April to December 2025. Notably, on May 10, the firm facilitated communication with several Trump administration officials, including White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, to address media narratives about the ongoing situation between India and Pakistan.
Lobbyists often play crucial roles in shaping discussions around international relations. Experts suggest that these interactions can influence trade policies and diplomatic ties. In fact, according to a report by the Center for Responsive Politics, lobbying expenditures in the US have grown significantly, with over $3 billion spent in 2021 alone. This shows how important these engagements are for countries looking to establish strong relationships with US leaders.
The Indian Embassy highlighted that engaging lobbyists is part of a long-standing tradition. They noted that this practice has been ongoing since the 1950s, adapting to the needs of different governments.
Interestingly, filings from another firm, Seiden Law LLP, reveal that it assisted Pakistan in developing economic partnerships with the US, especially during its conflicts with India. This context sheds light on how nations employ similar strategies to navigate complex geopolitical waters.
As global dynamics shift, the role of lobbying firms will likely continue to grow, shaping not just trade conversations but also broader diplomatic engagements.
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OPERATION SINDOOR, TRUMP ADMINISTRATION, INDIAN EMBASSY IN WASHINGTON, INDIAN EMBASSY TOOK SERVICES OF LOBBYING FIRM TO ENGAGE WITH WASHINGTON ON VARIOUS ISSUES
