The Indian Prime Minister’s visit to the United States aimed to enhance the strategic partnership between the two nations by addressing common challenges, working on global issues, partnering in critical emerging technologies, promoting sustainable development and transitioning towards clean energy. This move was crucial in terms of strengthening bilateral relations and ushering a new era of cooperation.
Strengthening Semiconductor Supply Chains
During his visit, the prime minister highlighted key areas of cooperation. First was the strengthening of semiconductor supply chains. To this end, Micron Technology, backed by the India Semiconductor Mission, will establish a new semiconductor assembly and test facility in India. Applied Materials will set up a Semiconductor Centre for Commercialization and Innovation to diversify the semiconductor supply chain. Moreover, Lam Research will train 60,000 Indian engineers through its “Semiverse Solution” project to speed up India’s semiconductor education and workforce development goals.
Progress in Advanced Telecommunications
India and the US are collaborating to develop Open RAN systems and advanced telecoms research and development via public-private Joint Task Forces. Both countries are also working on projects like Bharat 6G and the US Next G Alliance. The ultimate aim is to augment security, reduce costs, and boost the resilience of telecommunication networks.
NASA-ISRO Collaboration in Space
The collaboration in space, another area of focus, saw India signing the Artemis Accords, thereby joining 26 other countries committed to peaceful, sustainable, and transparent space exploration. NASA, in return, has agreed to provide advanced training to Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) astronauts.
Advancements in Quantum, Advanced Computing and AI
The Joint Indo-US Quantum Coordination Mechanism facilitates joint research in quantum technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and advanced wireless technologies. Moreover, collaborations on trustworthy AI and generative AI will boost AI education, commercial opportunities, and workforce initiatives.
Fibre Optics Investments and Cutting-Edge Research
Indian company Sterlite Technologies Limited invested USD 100 million in a fiber optic cable manufacturing unit near Columbia, South Carolina, promoting annual exports worth USD 150 million from India. The US National Science Foundation also has joint research collaborations with India’s Department of Science and Technology, with cooperative arrangements signed to foster emerging technologies.
Initiation of Innovation Handshake
The US-India Commercial Dialogue will start an “Innovation Handshake” to link the startup ecosystems of both countries, thereby supporting the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET).
Establishing Critical Minerals Partnership
India is now a partner of the US-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), which aims to develop diverse and sustainable supply chains for critical energy minerals.
Strengthening Defence Partnership
Defence partnerships were another focus, with proposals welcomed to co-produce GE’s F414 combat aircraft engines in India. There are also agreements for service and repair of US Navy ships at Indian shipyards, fostering closer cooperation.
Tackling Terrorism and Drugs
Both nations stand united against global terrorism and intend to develop a counternarcotics framework to combat the production and trafficking of illicit drugs.
Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific
The US will join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, promoting a safe and stable maritime domain and regional coordination.
Strengthening and Reforming the Multilateral System
Both countries supported a comprehensive UN reform agenda including expansion of the UN Security Council’s membership.
Healthcare Initiatives
Collaborations between US and Indian scientists will be fostered through grants to develop AI-enabled digital pathology platforms and automated cancer treatment strategies.
Digital Public Infrastructure for Inclusive Development
Recognizing the potential of Digital Public Infrastructure, the countries aim to provide global leadership in promoting inclusive development, competitive markets, and protecting individual rights.
Strengthening India-US Trade and Investment Partnership
Bilateral trade exceeded USD 191 billion in 2022, with a focus on greater engagement in emerging technologies, clean energy, and pharmaceuticals.
Sustainable Development
India and the US will continue working together to achieve national climate and energy goals, including co-leading the Hydrogen Breakthrough Agenda.
People-Centric Efforts
Efforts have been made to simplify visa renewals for certain temporary work visas, benefiting Indian nationals, and reducing the need to leave the country for renewal. There are also plans to open new consulates to foster closer diplomatic ties.
