NEW DELHI/WASHINGTON- India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on a pivotal visit to the United States, highlighting a significant shift in bilateral ties towards enhanced defense industry cooperation and the sharing of advanced technology. The visit aims to facilitate India's access to crucial American technologies typically reserved for close allies, fostering a stronger alliance rooted in global politics, business, and economics.
Over the past two decades, the United States and India have gradually bridged their once-suspicious relationship from the Cold War era. Both Democratic and Republican administrations have consistently expressed bipartisan support for deepening ties with India, recognizing its emergence as a significant Asian economy and regional power.
President Joe Biden has further advanced this cooperation, viewing India as a crucial partner in countering China's expanding global influence and bolstering security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Additionally, Washington aims to steer India away from its longstanding defense alliance with Russia. Despite increased Western frustrations, New Delhi continues to maintain ties with Moscow and has even augmented its purchases of affordable Russian oil following the Ukrainian invasion.
India, recognizing the need to diversify its alliances amidst military tensions and strained relations with China, has overcome its historical hesitations and turned its focus towards the West. While Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made previous visits to the United States, his upcoming visit holds special significance as it marks his first official state visit and only the third such visit during President Joe Biden's tenure.
The visit is regarded as a major milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two countries, as emphasized by India's Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra. A key highlight of the visit will be the showcasing of achievements in defense cooperation, particularly in the collaboration between the military industries of India and the United States. India aims to bolster its domestic production of weapons and equipment, both for its own needs and for potential export opportunities.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the United States, major announcements are expected to enhance bilateral cooperation in defense, technology, and trade. These include U.S. approval for General Electric to manufacture engines in India, India's purchase of armed drones from General Atomics, and the removal of trade barriers. The visit will also cover collaboration in various sectors, including semiconductors, cyberspace, aerospace, and quantum computing. Modi will meet top U.S. officials, address Congress, engage with American CEOs, and lead an International Yoga Day event. This visit signifies a significant milestone in U.S.-India relations and aims to establish a multipolar Asia while strengthening India's security and regional role.