Policy Commentary, April 2 2024
By Dr. C. Raja Mohan
Introduction
The dynamics of the Indo-U.S. relationship have defied persistent pessimism and surpassed analytical expectations. Despite the challenges and crises often viewed as potential deal-breakers, the trajectory of this relationship has consistently outperformed the prevailing narrative. A crucial factor contributing to this success is the unwavering political commitment exhibited by diverse governments in both nations. The prevailing inclination to prioritize alliances, non-alignment, and strategic autonomy has posed a challenge in comprehending the relationship’s development. Letting go of these fixations is crucial to understanding the partnership’s development in a more complex way. Allies, which are often seen incorrectly as being tight and inflexible, are essential components of global politics that provide flexible conditions as opposed to unchangeable restrictions.
The contentious idea of “strategic autonomy” has been used to justify avoiding collaboration with the US and maintaining reliance on other nations. India’s viewpoint on Asian security is clearly changing away from an ideological bias based on the West. The changing official narrative highlights the need for a practical approach and marks a break from the historical framework that hampered India’s achievements.
The emergence of a national consensus is a noteworthy change in India. The contemporary political environment, especially under Prime Minister Modi, shows a capacity to overcome nationalist resistance, in contrast to the difficulties experienced in the past by leaders such as Manmohan Singh in dealing with ideological opposition. This change is essential to developing trust in dealing with the United States and creating a partnership that benefits both parties. A closer look at the relationship’s structure indicates a break from ideological limitations. As the United States looks for effective allies in Asia to help build a new security framework to counter China’s growth, the burden-sharing idea becomes relevant. The focus now is on cooperative operations where Asian allies voluntarily contribute to their security, rather than the United States imposing conditions.
Recommendations
To effectively navigate the complex dynamics of the India-U.S. relationship, it is critical to establish a discussion framework that is both structured and strategic. The lack of a well-defined, cohesive framework continues to be a substantial barrier, emphasising the need for both countries to proactively develop a comprehensive strategy for diplomatic discussions. Notwithstanding initial scepticism and the perception of insurmountable obstacles, both factions’ leadership has consistently surpassed expectations.
Conversely, the fixation on alliances, non-alignment, and strategic autonomy, which has historically impeded progress, should be addressed by both countries. A paradigm shift is required to address the prevalent belief in India that partnerships are inherently inflexible and restrictive, which is heavily influenced by the concept of strategic autonomy. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar admission that strategic autonomy had in the past been employed as a justification for avoiding collaboration with the United States underscores the imperative to abandon this way of thinking. To cultivate closer connections between the two countries, a more pragmatic and adaptable approach to partnerships is vital.
The present government in India is actively engaged in efforts to enhance diplomatic relations with the United States, acknowledging the strategic value of expanding diplomatic alliances. Cooperation that endures and is prosperous is widely recognised to require that both countries manage their domestic affairs and policies in an efficient manner. This requires a deliberate efforts to establish agreement within the country, guaranteeing that policies are in line with the cooperative objectives of the bilateral association.
In addition, acknowledging the significance of effective security frameworks in Asia, the United States necessitates assistance from potent and capable nations. The adoption of burden-sharing as a practice becomes essential for all regional powers, and India’s advancements in this regard are praiseworthy. Asian nations’ collective initiatives to safeguard themselves are exemplified by the formation of the QUAD and trilateral alliances. As a result, there is a strong recommendation for the United States to reveal specific geopolitical obligations, thereby promoting openness and confidence in the alliance.
Notwithstanding notable advancements in defence, commerce, and industrial collaboration in recent times, it is imperative to sustain the collaboration’s momentum in the face of persistent global challenges. It is imperative for both countries to underscore the significance of ongoing endeavours, enduring alliances, and a mutual dedication to manoeuvring through the intricacies of the present geopolitical environment.
Remarks made by: Dr C Raja Mohan, Former Director of the Institute of South Asian Studies, National University of Singapore and Currently a Visiting Professor there, at the First Virtual Panel Discussion on ‘The US-India Political/Strategic Landscape and Its Impact,’ January 18, 2024, for an ongoing project on Partners in Progress: How Does the US-India Strategic Partnership Matter?
Organized by: Centre for East Asian Studies, CHRIST (Deemed to be University) & Rising Powers Initiative, Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University in collaboration with US Consulate General, Chennai.
