Putting everything else aside, I think that if America was in total calamity right now and there was something India could do to help it, I think that India would come through.

I of course have very strong personal feelings about this — my youngest son was born there, our family grew on its soil, the kindnesses shown to us during our five years there are beyond counting. It is a place that I love.

But beyond that, if this past year has taught us anything, it is that those sitting high can quickly find themselves knocked down. It is not a time to alienate friends. Because I can guarantee you one thing, people will remember.

And from the narrowest of national self-interest, America has considerable attention on Asia these days. The quad, for example. What’s the conversation on the sidelines next time?

I’m not at all aware of the details of what’s possible or conversations behind closed doors. But am struck that this is a moment where a considerable amount of goodwill could be gained. And, hopefully, lives saved.