US-India Strength and Synergy at a Time of Geopolitical Strife
By Dr Mukesh Aghi
The fifth edition of the U.S.-India 2+2 ministerial dialogue concluded with a resounding message. The relationship between Washington and New Delhi is one based on deep synergy in strengthening ties in new domains of critical and emerging technology, building on commercial ties, deeper trade engagement, stronger space collaboration, identifying healthcare challenges, fortifying our defenses to ensure the priorities of securing a free and open Indo-Pacific and more importantly a united partnership between two of the largest democracies at a time of geopolitical uncertainties and volatile conflict zones.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin together with their counterparts, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressed the deteriorating situation in the Middle East. The United States and India unequivocally condemned any and all forms of terrorism or violent extremism by state and non-state actors. Both Secretaries and Ministers united in expressing sympathy for Israel for the heinous attacks of October 7, 2023. As two democracies, both India and the United States have suffered deeply from terror attacks, most notably 9/11 in 2001 and the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai in 2008. However, the leaders reiterated a clarion call to peace, a diplomatic solution, and an urgency to address the humanitarian emergencies unfolding in Gaza and to adhere to international humanitarian law, including concerning the protection of civilians. A call for the release of all hostages and working together with partners in the Middle East to bring back stability and security. The situation in Israel will in the short run affect immediate engagement on I2U2
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