The impending visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds great significance for U.S.-India relations, especially in light of the challenges posed by Russia and China. President Biden views Modi’s visit as an opportunity to showcase a foreign policy success and gather support to counter the belligerence of these nations.
While India and the U.S. enjoyed a positive rapport during the Trump administration, tensions arose following Biden’s inauguration and India’s perceived support for Russia amid the Ukraine conflict. Nevertheless, Modi’s visit aims to reignite the alliance between the two nations.
Modi commenced his visit with engagements in New York City before proceeding to the White House, where discussions on security and economic concerns will take place. Biden hopes to bring India closer to the U.S. and forge a stronger bond between the two countries.
Modi emphasized India’s deserving role in the world and its aspiration to gain a rightful and more prominent position. He stressed that India’s intentions are not to replace any other country but to diversify supply chains and enhance resilience.
Notable outcomes of the visit are expected to be agreements on manufacturing jet-fighter engines in India and acquiring high-altitude predator drones from the U.S.
Despite some criticism in the U.S. regarding India’s response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine, Modi dismissed such viewpoints, stating that they do not represent the widespread perception in America. He reaffirmed that India’s position is well understood globally.
India’s position as the world’s fifth-largest economy highlights the importance of a strong alliance with the United States. The visit presents an opportunity for the Quad members and other democracies to deepen economic, political, and military engagement with India. Additionally, India seeks to counter China’s influence by assuming a broader geopolitical role as the voice of the global south.
Trade between the U.S. and India has reached record levels, with defense sales alone totaling $20 billion in 2020. The significant Indian diaspora in the U.S. plays a crucial role in the economic, cultural, and political spheres.
Modi’s visit demonstrates his government’s alignment with Washington’s interests, marking a distinct relationship compared to other key allies. This evolving alliance is set to endure beyond the tenures of both Biden and Modi.
The Associated Press has contributed to this report.
Source Fox News
