| 07 September 2023
Two months after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's successful State visit to the United States, President Joe Biden arrived in New Delhi on Friday, setting the stage for crucial talks and participation in the G20 Leaders' Meeting. On the eve of this pivotal summit, the two leaders held bilateral discussions at the official residence of Prime Minister Modi.
In a joint statement issued after the bilateral talks, PM Modi and President Biden reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing the India-US Strategic Partnership. The statement highlighted significant progress in implementing the agreements reached during Modi's visit to the US in June 2023.
One of the key outcomes of their meeting was the outline of a comprehensive vision for the partnership between their countries. This vision spans a wide array of sectors, including technology, defense, healthcare, and renewable energy.
Strengthening International Alliances
President Biden commended India's G20 Presidency and expressed confidence that the G20 Leaders' Summit in New Delhi would significantly contribute to sustainable development and international cooperation. This marks a step forward in strengthening economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
The leaders emphasized the importance of the Quad alliance in promoting a free, open, inclusive, and resilient Indo-Pacific region. India is set to host the next Quad Leaders' Summit in 2024. The United States' decision to co-lead the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative on Trade Connectivity and Maritime Transport was welcomed, underlining their commitment to regional stability and prosperity.
Global Diplomacy and Technological Cooperation
President Biden reiterated his support for India as a permanent member of a reformed UN Security Council, further strengthening India's global diplomatic standing. Additionally, India's candidature for the UNSC non-permanent seat in 2028-29 received a warm welcome from the US.
Technology emerged as a key theme in their discussions, with both leaders highlighting the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET). A midterm review of iCET is planned for September 2023, underscoring their dedication to technological innovation.
Space Exploration and Defense Collaboration
In the realm of space exploration, President Biden congratulated India on the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3. Discussions are now underway for joint efforts in space exploration and planetary defense, signifying a new era of cooperation in this cutting-edge field.
The defense sector witnessed significant developments, with the India-US Major Defense Partnership expanding cooperation into emerging domains such as AI and space. A historic co-production and technology transfer initiative between GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) further solidified this partnership.
Energy and Climate Commitments
Recognizing the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions, both leaders emphasized nuclear energy's role in meeting climate targets and securing energy for their nations. Their collaboration focused on the development of next-generation small modular reactor technologies, with the US expressing support for India's inclusion in the Nuclear Suppliers Group.
Renewable energy was another focal point of their discussions, with the launch of the India-US Renewable Energy Technologies Action Platform (RE-TAP) in August 2023. This platform aims to facilitate collaboration on innovative renewable energy technologies and advance policy and planning in this crucial sector.
Green Mobility and Investment Commitments
Addressing the decarbonization of the transport sector, both nations committed to expanding electric mobility in India. Plans include the procurement of 10,000 made-in-India electric buses, a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions.
To further advance green technologies and renewable energy in India, the leaders announced the creation of investment platforms aimed at lowering capital costs. This commitment is reflected in exchanged letters of intent to contribute up to US$500 million each, establishing a renewable infrastructure investment fund.
The India-U.S. Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) received commendation for its innovative collaborations in the defense sector, illustrating the growing synergy between the two nations.
In conclusion, President Biden's visit to India underscores the deepening partnership between these two influential nations. With commitments spanning diplomacy, technology, space exploration, defense, and energy, this visit solidifies India and the United States as key allies in shaping a more prosperous and sustainable future.
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