In a significant diplomatic move, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri hosted Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker in New Delhi for high-level consultations aimed at fortifying the U.S.-India strategic partnership. The discussions, which spanned defence, technology, and security cooperation, underscored the growing alignment of interests between the two nations.
The U.S. Embassy in India highlighted the importance of these talks, stating, “Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri hosted @UnderSecStateP Allison Hooker for consultations on strengthening the U.S.-India strategic partnership, including through defense, technology, and security cooperation that delivers concrete benefits for the American people.”
The India-U.S. Foreign Office Consultations, co-chaired by Misri and Hooker, provided a platform to review the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Both sides delved into a wide array of bilateral, regional, and global issues, with a particular emphasis on translating the vision set forth by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during their February meeting into tangible outcomes.
Hooker, who is on a five-day visit to India, conveyed the U.S. administration’s commitment to advancing collaboration in key sectors such as defence, energy, technology, space, and supply chain resilience. “The meeting was an opportunity to translate President Trump and Prime Minister Modi’s vision from their February meeting into concrete progress that enhances U.S. security, jobs, and competitiveness, while supporting India’s long-term goals,” the U.S. embassy noted.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that the talks, conducted under the foreign office consultations mechanism, encompassed a comprehensive review of the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. The agenda was expansive, covering trade, investment, defence ties, civil nuclear cooperation, critical minerals, emerging technologies, and trusted supply chains. Additionally, discussions touched upon the ongoing TRUST initiative and regional and global developments, with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Washington in February had set an ambitious agenda, with India pledging to expand purchases of American oil, gas, and military platforms, including the advanced F-35 fighter jets. New Delhi and Washington also agreed to pursue a major trade agreement, aiming to achieve $500 billion in annual bilateral trade by 2030.
Hooker emphasised Washington’s goal to deepen cooperation in defence, energy, technology, space, and trusted supply chains. She highlighted the mutual benefits of U.S.-India collaboration, stating, “The value of U.S.-India cooperation fuels U.S. innovation while supporting India’s rise as a global technology leader.”
As both nations navigate an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, this strategic dialogue represents a critical step in solidifying their partnership. The outcomes of these discussions are poised to shape the future trajectory of U.S.-India relations, fostering greater security, economic growth, and technological advancement for both countries.