Washington, Aug. 22 -- Former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley on Friday emphasised the importance of rebuilding the US-India relationship to counter China, saying, "Unlike Communist China, the rise of a democratic India does not threaten the free world."

"Partnership between the US and India to counter China should be a no-brainer. It would serve America's interests to help India stand up to China," she said.

In an opinion piece co-authored with Bill Drexel of the Hudson Institute, Haley recalled, "In July 1982, President Ronald Reagan welcomed Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to a state dinner at the White House. Toasting the friendship between our 'two proud, free peoples,' he said: 'although our countries may trave...