Washington, Dec 18 - Robert L. Nelson Jr, a partner at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, a leading international law firm based in Washington, has been elected to the board of directors of the US-India Business Council (USIBC).

As a board member, Nelson will help the USIBC provide strategic direction for US and Indian companies seeking bilateral investment opportunities and partnerships, the trade association seeking stronger commercial ties with India said. He served on a US-India task force designed to better trade and investment relations between the countries and recently led the USIBC Green India renewable energy mission to India.

"The election of Bob Nelson is testament to USIBC's dedication to its membership base on the West Coast. His commitment to the Indo-US partnership is rooted in a lifelong interest in India, and, coupled with his expertise in renewable energy, will undoubtedly serve to bring the two countries closer in this vital field," said Pepsico chairman Indra Nooyi, who also chairs USIBC.

"I've had a deep and abiding love for India and its people since my youth, and it has been a privilege to work for the benefit of this exceptional country over the last two decades," Nelson said.

"Much of the credit for the positive transformation in relations between India and the United States goes to the USIBC, and I look forward to being able to continue my USIBC activities at an expanded level with my upcoming participation on its Board."

Nelson who has been active in the energy arena, including the renewable energy space for nearly 30 years, particular, has significant energy experience in Asia, particularly India and China, Latin America and the US. (IANS)