The visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United States holds immense significance for the strengthening of U.S.-India relations. As tensions with Russia and China escalate, President Biden recognizes the need for support in countering their belligerence. Modi’s visit presents a crucial opportunity for both leaders to reaffirm their commitment to a strong alliance.
During the Trump administration, India and the U.S. enjoyed a positive and fruitful relationship, with both leaders expressing admiration for each other. However, as Biden assumed office, there was a temporary cooling of relations, partly due to India’s perceived support for Russia amidst the Ukraine conflict. Nonetheless, Modi’s visit aims to rekindle the spirit of collaboration and reinforce the importance of the U.S.-India partnership.
Modi’s visit began with engagements in New York City, where he held talks with business and thought leaders. Subsequently, he arrived in Washington to visit the White House and dine with President Biden. The two leaders will engage in discussions covering a range of security and economic concerns, with the objective of forging a deeper bond and bringing India closer to the United States.
Modi’s statements highlight India’s deserving role in the world and its aspiration for a more prominent position. It is important to note that India’s ambitions do not involve supplanting any other country but rather diversifying supply chains and building resilience. The visit is expected to yield significant outcomes, including agreements for the manufacturing of jet-fighter engines in India and the procurement of high-altitude predator drones from the U.S.
Despite criticism from certain quarters in the U.S. regarding India’s response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, Modi dismisses these views, asserting that they do not represent the widespread perception in America. He reaffirms that India’s position is well understood and recognized globally.
The visit underscores the significance of maintaining a strong alliance with India, particularly in light of its recent ascent to become the world’s fifth-largest economy. Elaine Dezenski, Senior Director of the Center on Economic and Financial Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, emphasizes the importance of deepening economic, political, and military engagement with India. This sentiment is shared by Quad members such as the United States, Japan, and Australia, as well as other democracies seeking to bolster their ties with India.
India’s positioning within various organizations such as the QUAD, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization further accentuates its role on the global stage. Modi aims to counter China’s influence and assume a broader geopolitical role as the voice of the global south.
Trade between the U.S. and India has surged to record levels, reaching $191 billion in 2022. Defense sales alone amounted to $20 billion in 2020, illustrating the importance of the economic partnership between the two nations. Furthermore, the Indian diaspora in the U.S., comprising nearly 5 million people, wields significant economic, cultural, and political influence.
As Modi’s visit progresses, it becomes increasingly apparent that his government stands firmly in Washington’s camp. The evolving relationship between the U.S. and India sets it apart from other key allies, signaling a promising future beyond the tenures of both Biden and Modi.
The Associated Press has contributed to this report.
Source Fox News
