Policy Commentary, April 17 2024
Dr. K.P. Vijayalakshmi
In the ever-changing world of international relations, few relationships are as large and significant as those that unite the United States and India. In an increasingly linked global environment, the India-U.S. partnership, which is based on shared democratic principles, economic linkages, and strategic interests, is a vital foundation for global stability and progress. However, a deeper look reveals a complex network of nuances and intricacies that have come together to create this progression, which is closely related to the national advancements of both nations. Mutual recognition of each other’s strategic importance is the basis of the Indo-American partnership that international, regional, and bilateral factors have impacted.
Mutual Benefits
Politically, regardless of affiliation, the United States political system has acknowledged India’s significance in the bilateral, regional, and global strategic landscape. This prevalent opinion has underscored the belief that improved/positive connections between the two nations provide mutual benefits, particularly in areas like defense, security trade, technology, and healthcare, to name a few. Indian perceptions have matched these assumptions, too. Such thinking has led to a gainful reciprocal effect between the United States and India in multiple areas that are becoming more apparent, especially as India works to strengthen its industrial base and achieve self-sufficiency via joint ventures and technology transfers. In addition, the U.S. shift away from China in an era of “strategic competition” has accelerated the cooperation in many facets of the partnership.
However, even as the strategic landscape remains a push factor for both to work towards shared objectives, concerns about the depth and scope of cooperation continue to be aired in the U.S. political realm. Similarly, with China looming large and a dynamic U.S. policy towards managing the “China Threat,” questions arise in India regarding the feasibility of strategic initiatives like the Indo-Pacific economic framework and semiconductor partnerships. The concerns outlined in some of the dialogues on trade, tech transfers and “sensitivities” issues are compounded by internal variables, like election cycles (U.S. Presidential elections and Indian elections) and protectionist attitudes, which might impact the trajectory of bilateral relations. Apart from immediate concerns, differing strategic viewpoints on certain issues in India’s neighborhood and terrorism provide further challenges.
Complex Regional Security- Building Trust
India’s desire for strategic autonomy is accompanied by worries about possible isolationist tendencies coming from Washington, despite the U.S.’ emphasis on economic regeneration and maintaining strategic competitiveness through “friend shoring.” As seen by the breaks from conventional wisdom during President Trump’s presidency, the fluidity of U.S. foreign policy necessitates modifying Indo-American ties to consider evolving geopolitical circumstances. Further, highlighting the complex nature of the Indo-US relationship are the divergent perspectives on counterterrorism. Different perspectives on regional security and bilateral priorities also highlight how important communication and understanding are to address shared problems successfully. Historical legacies and sensitivity to perceived power dynamics further highlight the importance of building trust and developing empathy in bilateral relationships.
Despite such challenges, a remarkable transformation has occurred in the India-U.S. strategic ties, providing many opportunities for cooperation, particularly in fields like climate change and renewable energy. Though certain disputes still exist, the depth of the Indo-US partnership is nevertheless based on a firm commitment to practical collaboration and the upholding of common ideals to manage an inclusive, rule-based world order. Perceptible progress in managing the trajectory of strategic initiatives still draws attention to resolving long-standing issues and balancing divergent opinions that will need constant effort and shrewd diplomacy on the part of both sides.
Remarks made by Dr. K.P. Vijayalakshmi, Professor & Head, Department of Geopolitics, and IR, MAHE, Manipal, Karnataka at the Panel Discussion held on January 18, 2024, as part of the project Partners in Progress: How Does the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Matter?
Organized by the Centre for East Asian Studies, CHRIST (Deemed to be University) & Rising Powers Initiative, Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University in collaboration with U.S. Consulate General Chennai.
