In a significant bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden, key agreements were reached that aim to bolster India-US ties across various sectors, including technology, defense, and clean energy. The meeting took place at President Biden’s residence in Wilmington, North Carolina, where both leaders highlighted the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
During their discussions, Modi expressed gratitude for Biden’s contributions to enhancing the India-US partnership, noting the positive outcomes from previous high-level visits, including Biden’s participation in the G20 summit in India. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that both leaders underscored their shared democratic values and the vibrant people-to-people connections that drive their relationship.
Biden commended India’s leadership on the global stage, particularly in the G20 and efforts to support the Global South. He recognized Modi’s historic visit to Ukraine, marking the first by an Indian Prime Minister in decades, and praised his message of peace amidst ongoing conflicts.
Support for India’s Global Role
In a significant move, President Biden voiced support for India’s permanent membership in a reformed UN Security Council, emphasizing the need for global institutions to reflect India’s important voice. This endorsement aligns with the US’s broader strategy to strengthen multilateral cooperation.
Technological Cooperation
The leaders celebrated the success of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), aimed at deepening collaboration in key sectors such as space and semiconductors. They committed to enhancing engagements in artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and biotechnology, which are crucial for national security and economic growth.
A notable outcome of the meeting was the announcement of a new semiconductor fabrication plant, focusing on advanced technologies essential for national security and green energy applications. Additionally, they welcomed the collaboration between NASA and ISRO for scientific research aboard the International Space Station, set to begin in 2025.
Defense Partnerships
On the defense front, President Biden acknowledged India’s procurement of 31 MQ-9B drones, which will significantly enhance India’s surveillance capabilities. The leaders discussed ongoing initiatives under the US-India Defense Industrial Cooperation Roadmap, focusing on co-production of critical defense systems, including jet engines and munitions.
Modi’s government also announced a simplified Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 5% for the maintenance and repair sector, which is expected to strengthen India’s aviation ecosystem. The partnership between Lockheed Martin and Tata Advanced Systems to establish a new Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility for C-130J aircraft was highlighted as a landmark agreement.
Clean Energy Initiatives
Modi and Biden welcomed collaborative efforts to develop clean energy supply chains, with plans to unlock $1 billion in multilateral financing for projects across renewable energy and related technologies. This includes a partnership with Tata Power Solar to construct a solar cell manufacturing facility, aimed at enhancing India’s clean energy capabilities.
The leaders also discussed establishing a National Center for Hydrogen Safety in India and reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating the deployment of renewable technologies and battery storage solutions.
Global Health and Development
In the realm of public health, the two leaders celebrated the launch of the US-India Drug Policy Framework, aimed at combating the illicit drug trade and enhancing public health collaboration. They also highlighted the inaugural U.S.-India Cancer Dialogue held in August 2024, which focused on advancing research and development in cancer treatment.
As Modi and Biden continue to foster their partnership, the outcomes from this meeting signal a robust commitment to addressing global challenges through enhanced cooperation and shared values.
Sources By Agencies
