The India-U.S. bilateral relationship has evolved significantly with the 5th edition of the India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue marking another milestone. This dialogue emphasized progress in areas like defense, emerging technology, space, health, etc. The 2+2 meetings, initiated in 2018, signify a high-level collaboration involving Ministers holding Foreign and Defense portfolios from each country.
Understanding the Concept of 2+2 Meetings
These meetings aim to enhance dialogue scope between two countries with representatives from foreign affairs and defense sectors. This mutual understanding mechanism takes into account political factors on both sides and strives to build a more integrated strategic relationship. The US is India’s oldest and most significant 2+2 talks partner, though India has also held similar meetings with ministers from countries such as Australia, Japan, the UK, and Russia.
Key Highlights of the India-US 2+2 Dialogue
Defense deals were a top priority, with intentions to collaboratively co-develop and co-produce defense systems. Other potential negotiations include the purchase of MQ-9B unmanned aerial vehicles and licensing manufacturing of General Electric’s F-414 jet engine in India. Infantry Combat Vehicles and Future Plans were aligned with India’s overarching goal of enhancing its defense capabilities. India joining the Combined Maritime Forces was well received as it signified India’s commitment to regional maritime security. Additionally, there were advancements made in Defence Technology Cooperation, particularly in the India-U.S. Defence Industrial Ecosystem, INDUS-X. Lastly, space and semiconductor collaborations were highlighted under the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET).
India’s Relations with the US: A Retrospective Analysis
The U.S.-India strategic partnership shares common values such as democracy and upholding the rules-based international system. Their relations have significantly grown economically, with the U.S. becoming India’s biggest trading partner in 2022-23. The bilateral trade between the countries has seen a 7.65% increase as against the previous year. Additionally, India and the US cooperate on multiple international platforms like the United Nations, G-20, ASEAN Regional Forum, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Trade Organization.
Major Defense Pacts Between India and the US
India has now signed all four foundational agreements with the US; the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016, the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018, and the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement for Geo-Spatial cooperation (BECA) in 2020. An extension to the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), the Industrial Security Annex (ISA), was signed in 2019.
Potential Challenges Affecting India-US Bilateral Relations
Criticism regarding India’s foreign policy, especially in relation to the US, has been one of the significant issues affecting the India-US relationship. While the US continues dealing in alliances since World War II, India has preferred non-alignment, causing friction between the two nations. Other potential challenges include India’s engagement with US adversaries, the US’ criticism of India’s democratic framework, and economic tensions like the Atmanirbhar Bharat Campaign perceived as making India a protectionist economy.
Moving Forward
The India-US partnership is crucial for ensuring a free, open, and rules-bound Indo-Pacific region. The demographic dividend provides opportunities for technology transfer, manufacturing, trade, and investment between US and Indian firms. As India emerges as a leading player in an internationally transforming system, it must leverage its position to further its interests.