The Biden administration has emerged as one of the most pro-India governments in recent US history, fostering stronger bilateral ties across various domains. This observation was highlighted in recent remarks by senior officials and experts, as the administration continues to deepen strategic, economic, and defense cooperation with India.
A Strategic Pivot Toward India
President Joe Biden’s foreign policy has consistently prioritized the Indo-Pacific region, with India playing a pivotal role. Experts argue that his administration has been instrumental in recognizing India’s growing significance on the global stage. The robust partnership between the two nations is rooted in shared democratic values and converging interests in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific amid China’s growing assertiveness.
The historic state visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United States in June 2023 marked a new high in bilateral relations. Key agreements in defense, technology, and clean energy were signed, setting the stage for long-term cooperation. The Biden administration has actively supported India’s leadership in multilateral forums such as the G20, which India chaired in 2023.
Defense Ties: A Strengthened Partnership
One of the cornerstones of the Biden administration’s pro-India approach has been the strengthening of defense ties. Washington has facilitated India’s access to cutting-edge defense technologies, a significant move toward reducing India’s dependence on Russian military equipment.
The recent pact between General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the co-production of fighter jet engines stands as a testament to this growing collaboration. Furthermore, the US has supported India’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative.
The Quad, a strategic grouping comprising the US, India, Japan, and Australia, has been reinvigorated under Biden’s leadership. The Quad has amplified its focus on maritime security, technology sharing, and supply chain resilience, ensuring that India remains a central player in regional geopolitics.
Economic Engagement: A Growing Trade Partnership
The Biden administration has actively worked to deepen economic ties with India. The two nations have seen a surge in bilateral trade, which reached an all-time high of $191 billion in 2023. The US is now one of India’s largest trading partners and a key source of foreign investment.
In addition to trade, technology has become a significant area of collaboration. The US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) has been launched to foster cooperation in areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. This initiative underscores the Biden administration’s recognition of India as a global technology hub.
Moreover, the US has supported India’s ambitious clean energy goals, offering technological assistance and investments to help the country transition to renewable energy. This partnership aligns with the global efforts to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions.
Cultural and People-to-People Ties
The Biden administration’s pro-India stance is also evident in its approach to the Indian diaspora in the US, which numbers over 4 million. The administration has streamlined processes for H-1B visas and Green Cards, benefiting thousands of Indian professionals. Biden’s repeated acknowledgment of the contributions of Indian-Americans in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and academia further strengthens the cultural bond between the two nations.
Vice President Kamala Harris, the first woman of Indian descent to hold the position, has also been a symbolic bridge between the two nations. Her role underscores the importance of diversity and representation in fostering closer ties.
A Relationship for the Future
The Biden administration’s policies toward India mark a significant departure from the transactional approach seen in some previous administrations. Instead, this era has been characterized by mutual respect, shared goals, and a long-term vision for the relationship.
Experts believe that this partnership has laid a strong foundation for future governments in both countries to build upon. However, challenges remain, including addressing trade imbalances, navigating differences on issues such as Russia and the Ukraine war, and tackling global challenges like cybersecurity and climate change.
Conclusion
Under President Joe Biden, US-India relations have witnessed unprecedented growth, marked by strategic alignment, economic collaboration, and cultural affinity. As the two nations continue to navigate a complex global landscape, their partnership remains a beacon of hope for a stable, prosperous, and inclusive world order.
With India poised to play an even greater role in global affairs, the Biden administration’s legacy will likely be remembered as a transformative chapter in the journey of US-India relations.
