Amidst tensions, India and America deepen strategic cooperation: Is a new turn coming in relations?

The India–US 2+2 Intersessional Dialogue was recently organized to advance strategic ties between the two countries. Senior officials from both sides participated and agreed to further expand cooperation in the areas of defense, security, trade, and technology.

Key areas of discussion

During the meeting, several crucial issues were discussed:

• Energy security and civil-nuclear cooperation

• Exploration of critical minerals

• Joint measures against terrorism and narcotics

• New 10-year defense partnership framework (in progress)

Both sides also emphasized strengthening collaboration in defense industry, science and technology, operational coordination, and intelligence sharing.

India–US COMPACT Initiative

A major highlight was the India–US COMPACT initiative, aimed at preparing a roadmap for 21st-century cooperation in military partnership, commerce, and emerging technologies. The two nations also reiterated their commitment to ensuring a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region through the Quad platform.

A relationship of cooperation and challenges

In recent months, India–US relations have seen both progress and friction.

• On the positive side, strategic and defense ties are getting stronger.

• On the economic front, tensions remain as the US has imposed tariffs of up to 50% on certain Indian exports, putting pressure on trade relations.

Despite this, both governments appear determined to focus on long-term cooperation.

Expert view: Strategic necessity keeps ties strong

Experts point out that for Washington, India is a vital partner in the Indo-Pacific to balance China’s influence. For New Delhi, the US remains a key source of high technology, investments, and defense cooperation. Hence, even with trade disputes, both countries are moving towards closer ties.

The road ahead

The latest dialogue indicates that India and the US are committed to deepen their long-term strategic partnership while managing short-term differences. The coming months could see a new defense framework and enhanced collaboration in critical technologies, setting the stage for a fresh chapter in bilateral relations.