According to the White House, the US-India bilateral relationship is “a defining alliance of the 21st century.”
“The US-India Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, the defining partnership of the 21st century, is decisively delivering on an ambitious agenda that serves the global good,” the statement read.
President Biden praised India’s global leadership, particularly in the G-20 and the Global South, and acknowledged India’s efforts in addressing major global challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic and conflicts worldwide, according to the statement.
The statement outlines a shared commitment to democracy, freedom, the rule of law, human rights, pluralism, and equal opportunities between the two countries.
The White House said the US-India Major Defense Partnership is a core component of global security. It mentions enhanced collaboration in areas like operational coordination, information-sharing, and defense industrial innovation, emphasizing the positive impact on global peace.
Significant praise was given for India’s humanitarian support for Ukraine and its commitment to international law, according to the statement. The leaders also affirmed their support for free navigation and the protection of commerce along critical maritime routes. Plans for India to co-lead the Combined Task Force 150 in 2025 to secure the Arabian Sea were also discussed.
The focus of the US-India partnership extends to advanced technology sectors such as space, semiconductors, telecommunications, artificial intelligence, and clean energy. Collaborative projects, including the establishment of a new semiconductor fabrication plant and efforts to build secure semiconductor supply chains, were emphasised.
Both countries also discussed expanding collaboration in civil and commercial space initiatives, including a joint effort between Nasa and Isro for research onboard the International Space Station in 2025, according to the statement.
On defense, the countries are advancing collaborations in jet engines, munitions, and unmanned surface vehicles, according to the White House statement. This includes the procurement of 31 remotely piloted aircraft to enhance India’s surveillance capabilities. Cooperation in aircraft maintenance and repair was also highlighted. The leaders acknowledged India’s procurement of MQ-9B aircraft and welcomed India’s steps to improve its aviation sector and ongoing defense innovation under the INDUS-X initiative.
Environmental cooperation is another key area, with initiatives supporting clean energy manufacturing and technology. The US International Development Finance Corporation has invested significantly in solar manufacturing projects in India, according to the statement.
In health, the leaders celebrated new agreements and projects aimed at combating synthetic drug threats and promoting cancer research. Investments in Indian pharmaceutical manufacturing and global health commitments were noted.
The leaders also committed to enhanced digital development, agricultural cooperation, and cultural property protection. They reaffirmed their dedication to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and supporting global economic growth.
Source : Times of India
