In a significant show of solidarity, U.S. President Joe Biden praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his groundbreaking visit to Ukraine, emphasizing a message of peace amid ongoing conflict with Russia. The U.S. also expressed its support for India’s bid for permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council.
The two leaders convened at Biden’s residence in Wilmington, where Modi conveyed his gratitude for the president’s unparalleled efforts in advancing the India-U.S. partnership. The meeting reinforced the notion that recent exchanges, including Modi’s trip to the U.S. last year and Biden’s visit to India for the G20 summit, have significantly deepened bilateral ties.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, both leaders discussed enhancing cooperation across various sectors, underpinned by shared democratic values and vibrant people-to-people connections. They focused on global and regional issues, particularly the Indo-Pacific, where India’s leadership has garnered U.S. approval, especially concerning the Quad alliance aimed at promoting regional stability.
Biden commended Modi for his leadership roles in the G20 and initiatives for the Global South, highlighting India’s proactive approach in tackling global challenges, including pandemic response and conflict resolution. Notably, the president acknowledged Modi’s unprecedented visit to Ukraine and Poland, noting the importance of his message of peace and humanitarian support.
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In terms of technology collaboration, both leaders celebrated the progress of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), aimed at enhancing cooperation in key sectors like space and semiconductors. They emphasized the need for regular engagements to bolster innovation and security in these areas, including upcoming NASA-ISRO joint research aboard the International Space Station in 2025.
Defense ties also received a boost, as Biden welcomed India’s recent procurement of General Atomics MQ-9B drones, which will enhance its military capabilities. The leaders discussed the US-India Defense Industrial Cooperation Roadmap, aiming to advance co-production in various military technologies.
In the clean energy sector, Modi and Biden reaffirmed their commitment to building safe and sustainable supply chains. They announced plans for joint financing initiatives to support clean energy projects, including renewable energy and electric vehicles.
Finally, the leaders celebrated new frameworks for drug policy and public health collaboration, aiming to combat synthetic drug trafficking and enhance cancer research efforts. They also acknowledged advancements in agriculture and small business cooperation, emphasizing the importance of trade facilitation and innovation.
Overall, this meeting marked a crucial step in strengthening the multifaceted relationship between the United States and India, with implications that could resonate on the global stage for years to come.
