India US strategic partnership

The Indian Prime Minister embarked on a significant visit to the United States

The Indian Prime Minister embarked on a significant visit to the United States, aiming to bolster the strategic partnership between both nations by focusing on shared challenges, global issues, emerging technology collaboration, sustainable development, and clean energy transition.

Semiconductor Industry: Micron Technology, supported by the India Semiconductor Mission, plans to establish a new semiconductor assembly and test facility in India, strengthening semiconductor supply chains.

Telecommunications: Joint Task Forces between India and the US have been created for the development and deployment of Open RAN systems and advanced telecommunications research and development. Initiatives like Bharat 6G from India and the US Next G Alliance aim to enhance telecom security, cost-effectiveness, and resilience.

Space Exploration: India signed the Artemis Accords, joining 26 nations committed to peaceful, sustainable, and transparent cooperation for space exploration. NASA will provide advanced training to Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) astronauts and is developing a strategic framework for joint space missions.

AI and Quantum Technology: The Joint Indo-US Quantum Coordination Mechanism was formed to facilitate joint research on quantum technology, AI, and advanced wireless technologies. The partnership also includes promoting trustworthy and responsible AI education and commercial opportunities.

Fibre Optics: Sterlite Technologies Limited invested USD 100 million to construct an optical fibre cable manufacturing unit in South Carolina, with an expected annual export of USD 150 million worth of optical fiber from India.

Scientific Research: Joint research collaborations have been established between the US National Science Foundation and India's Department of Science and Technology, along with an arrangement to promote emerging technologies with India's Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

Startup Ecosystem: The "Innovation Handshake" will be launched under the US-India Commercial Dialogue, connecting the startup ecosystems of both countries.

Minerals Security: India joined the US-led Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), aimed at developing diverse and sustainable critical energy minerals supply chains globally.

Defense Partnership: A proposal to co-produce GE's F414 combat aircraft engines in India has been approved. There are agreements for service and repair of US Navy ships at Indian shipyards, collaboration on defense technologies, and a Defense Industrial Cooperation Roadmap for policy guidance.

Terrorism and Drug Trafficking: Both nations stand united against global terrorism, violent extremism, and drug trafficking.

Indo-Pacific Cooperation: The US will join the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, promoting maritime safety, security, and regional coordination.

Healthcare: Collaborative efforts will be made to develop AI-enabled digital pathology platforms and automated radiotherapy treatment for cancer.

Trade and Investment: Bilateral trade exceeded USD 191 billion in 2022, focusing on emerging technologies, clean energy, and pharmaceuticals.

Sustainable Development: Both nations are co-leading the Hydrogen Breakthrough Agenda, with plans to attract international private finance for renewable energy and green technology projects in India. Initiatives have also been taken to decarbonize the transportation sector and promote biofuels.

People-Centric Initiatives: Visa renewal process for certain temporary work visas have been simplified, with plans to open new consulates in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad. Student exchanges and scholarships have been enhanced.

Cultural Exchange: The establishment of the Tamil Studies Chair at the University of Houston and reinstating the Vivekananda Chair at the University of Chicago were welcomed to further research and teaching of India's history and culture.