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India- USA ties under Biden Government
Context:
During the Quad leaders’ summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with U.S. President Joe Biden, Biden noted that the partnership between the U.S. and India is “stronger, closer, and more dynamic than any time in history,”.
Achievements under Biden Regime to strengthen India-US ties:
GeoPolitical Cooperation:
- Quad Revitalisation: Trump revived the Quad in 2017, and Biden elevated it to the leaders’ level in 2021, hosting the inaugural leaders’ summit shortly after taking office.
- Support for UNSC Reforms: The Biden administration reaffirmed its support for India’s aspiration for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Geostrategic Corporations:
- Defense Trade: Defense ties have strengthened through the Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI),enabling co-development and sharing of advanced defence technologies, enhancing India’s military capabilities.
- Increased arms sales, including deals for Boeing P-8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft and AH-64E Apache helicopters.
- Malabar Naval Exercise:The Malabar Naval Exercise expanded to include Quad nations, showcasing complex maritime operations to address Indo-Pacific security challenges.
- U.S.-India Counterterrorism Joint Task Force to enhance collaboration on counterterrorism through intelligence sharing and addressing threats from groups like ISIS and Al-Qaeda.
Geoeconomic Cooperations:
- Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF): Biden introduced the IPEF to enhance economic cooperation in the region, serving as a strategic counterbalance to China’s rising influence.
- U.S.-India Trade Policy Forum:Revitalised in November 2021 to tackle trade barriers and promote bilateral trade, targeting $500 billion by 2025.
- Established the U.S.-India Economic and Financial Partnership, focusing on infrastructure investments and sustainable development.
- Investment in Clean Energy: Launched the U.S.-India Climate and Clean Energy Agenda 2030 Partnership in April 2021, aiming to mobilise $2.5 billion for clean energy initiatives, including solar projects.
- Increased Investments During Biden’s Presidency: American companies significantly invested in India during Biden’s presidency, aligning with the China Plus One strategy.
- Healthcare Support during COVID-19: In April 2021, the U.S. provided substantial aid to India, including raw materials for vaccine production and medical supplies, reinforcing health security during the pandemic.
Technology Cooperation:
- Post-Pandemic Realignment: Both nations sought to strengthen their ties in technology and supply chains to mitigate risks from China.
- Initiative for Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET): Launched in 2023 to facilitate strategic technology collaborations, focusing on sectors like AI, telecom, and semiconductors.
- Semiconductor Agreement: Modi’s recent visit resulted in a significant agreement to establish a semiconductor fabrication plant in India.
- U.S.-India Cyber Security Dialogue established to enhance collaboration on cybersecurity and protect critical infrastructure.
- Blue Dot Network initiative, promoted which encourages high-quality infrastructure investment in the Indo-Pacific region, aligning with India’s infrastructure goals.
Challenges in Ties:
- Recent Tensions: Allegations regarding an assassination plot against pro-Khalistan activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun have strained relations, prompting a civil suit against Indian officials.
- Complex Relationship with Russia:India’s long standing relationship with Russia complicates its geopolitical positioning, particularly as the Biden administration adopts a firm stance against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.
- India’s continued defence ties with Russia may strain its relationship with the U.S. and impact defence procurement.
Conclusion:
Collaborative Projects: Ongoing partnerships include joint research on the International Space Station, critical minerals supply chains, and defence acquisitions.