The recent tensions between the United States and India, sparked by tariffs, Russian oil purchases, and renewed issues related to Pakistan, have led to a regrettable downturn in their bilateral relationship. Public insults and recriminations have characterized this deterioration, highlighting the fragility of what has been one of the most important global partnerships for the U.S. in recent decades.
As Washington and New Delhi assess this situation, it is crucial to remember the reasons behind India’s rise as a significant partner for the United States. The relationship has flourished over the years due to India’s status as the world’s largest democracy, its economic and technological dynamism, and its increasing role in global leadership.
The shared objective of ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific has drawn the two nations into a strategic alignment, effectively working against reckless Chinese actions in the region. This alignment, however, is not guaranteed.
Historically, various U.S. presidents have advanced specific initiatives to strengthen ties with India, with landmark agreements like the U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement under President George W. Bush and the ongoing collaboration in fields such as AI, biotechnology, and aerospace under President Joe Biden.
Nevertheless, the relationship remains susceptible to misunderstandings and misalignments in expectations, primarily due to lingering distrust between the nations. Unlike other U.S. alliances, U.S.-Indian ties do not conform neatly to traditional models of formal alliances characterized by mutual defense commitments.
As the global landscape evolves, the shortcomings of this historical approach—emphasizing collective self-defense over deeper economic, technological, and strategic ties—become glaringly apparent. The lack of a binding security guarantee has led to a lack of attention to the fundamental areas of alignment that exist between the two countries.
The current trajectory in U.S.-Indian relations could lead to a split detrimental to both parties. Notably, recent appearances by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi alongside Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin underscore the risk of India gravitating closer to its adversaries.
The United States must avoid pushing India into the arms of adversaries, particularly with China’s assertive posture on India’s borders and the potential for strained ties with Washington.
To mitigate this risk, Washington and New Delhi need to move beyond merely restoring the old status quo. Instead, a strong, ambitious foundation for a strategic alliance should be forged, emphasizing mutual commitments in technology, defense, supply chains, intelligence, and global problem-solving.
In the face of current discord, innovating this relationship might seem daunting. However, both countries can leverage existing frameworks to build a more robust partnership. The consequences of failing to do so could mean missing out on a major strategic opportunity, fostering Indian paths that may diverge from American interests.
### Pillars of a Stronger Alliance
A renewed U.S.-India strategic alliance could be formalized through a treaty ratified by the U.S. Senate, created on five foundational pillars to enhance security, prosperity, and shared values.
1. **Technological Cooperation**: The first pillar would entail a comprehensive ten-year action plan, focusing on technologies defining the future such as AI, semiconductors, biotechnology, quantum, clean energy, telecommunications, and aerospace. This collaborative effort aims to create a unified technology ecosystem among allies to maintain a competitive edge against nations like China. Key initiatives like the U.S.-India TRUST initiative could evolve into more formal frameworks, anchoring joint research and development partnerships.
2. **Economic Collaboration**: Enhanced economic cooperation would form the second pillar, aiming to develop a bilateral trade pact that reflects modern economic realities. Establishing a supply chain and investment agreement would alleviate vulnerabilities to coercion and fortify the techno-industrial bases of both nations. Recognizing interdependencies on critical supply chains, particularly concerning pharmaceuticals and raw materials, is essential for building resilience against external shocks.
3. **Defense Cooperation**: The third pillar would focus on defense collaboration without necessitating traditional mutual defense guarantees. This would involve co-development, co-production, and interoperability among defense forces. Initiatives like INDUS-X, which connects defense ecosystems between both nations, signify potential for closer cooperation in modern defense technologies. Newer capabilities, particularly in unmanned systems and air defense, could be prioritized.
4. **Intelligence Sharing**: The fourth pillar involves enhancing intelligence cooperation, particularly in maritime security. A common intelligence framework for the Indian Ocean and joint analytical efforts would provide both nations with better situational awareness and readiness against common threats.
5. **Global Problem Solving**: Finally, the alliance would encapsulate a commitment to address global challenges—climate change, food security, and public health—leveraging each nation’s strengths to deliver effective solutions. Joint projects in third countries where both nations have strategic interests could facilitate practical cooperation.
### Addressing Concerns and Reinforcing Commitment
Despite recent strains in the relationship, the potential for bolstering U.S.-India ties should not be overlooked. Some skeptics may argue that the current environment hampers momentum in strengthening bilateral relations. However, supporters of the alliance must convey to their Indian counterparts that U.S. diplomacy can often stand out amidst political theatrics, which can precede substantive agreements.
Concerns regarding India’s democratic backsliding, particularly regarding civil rights and pluralism, could pose another challenge. Still, the strength of the U.S.-India relationship must encompass mature conversations about these realities while recognizing parallel issues in U.S. democracy.
Another critical aspect involves India’s longstanding reliance on Russia for defense and energy supplies. The necessity for India to diversify its strategic partnerships cannot be understated. This shift should arise from India’s interests rather than simply appeasing U.S. demands. Subtle but significant indications suggest India has been recalibrating its stance towards Western partners.
Furthermore, Washington should disengage from policies that hyphenate relations between India and Pakistan. U.S. interests in Pakistan, while valid, do not overshadow the strategic importance of a steady partnership with India.
Indian sensitivities regarding strategic autonomy amid proposed alliances must also be addressed. The legacy of the Non-Aligned Movement may evoke apprehension regarding formal alliances. Yet, such partnerships do not equate to compromising sovereignty.
### A Call for Action
Practical concerns surrounding bureaucratic inertia on both sides might impede progress. Strong leadership from both American and Indian governments is crucial to galvanize support across various sectors, including academia and the private realm.
History demonstrates that significant alliances often weather periods of tension. The U.S.-Japan alliance, for instance, has faced similar challenges but adapted and evolved over time. The U.S.-India alliance has the capacity to emerge stronger as well.
While the willingness of the current administration to elevate relations remains uncertain, clarity on strategic aims is paramount. The evolving geopolitical landscape emphasizes the value of shared security arrangements.
India has taken a prominent position as one of America’s most consequential partners, and the alternative to forging and formalizing this relationship would be far more challenging. In light of pressing global issues, both nations should step forward with a renewed commitment and determination to establish a solid and viable alliance.
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