Modi’s Visit to the US: Strengthening Indo-US Ties Amid Rising Concerns over China
During his visit to Washington, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at a crucial time when there is a growing consensus across both political parties in the United States that China’s ascent poses a significant challenge to American power, influence, and the global economic and political order. Despite concerns about democracy in India, the focus has shifted towards countering China’s influence.
While US officials emphasized that Modi’s visit was not solely about China, the prevailing sentiment in Washington is that nearly everything now revolves around China. Senator Marco Rubio, a Republican known for his stance against autocracy, highlighted the importance of countering the Chinese Communist Party’s aggression in the Himalayas and Indian Ocean, emphasizing the shared economic and security interests between India and the US.
From the US perspective, India appears to be a promising partner in the effort to confront China. The Biden administration has been strengthening defense ties with Japan and Australia, as well as reengaging with the Philippines, in response to China’s actions. Western governments’ desire to reduce dependence on Chinese supply chains has also benefited India’s economy. The COVID-19 pandemic and inflation spikes have underscored the risks of over-reliance on a manufacturing base vulnerable to political confrontations.
Border tensions and skirmishes between China and India have shifted the focus, prompting questions about whether Beijing or Pakistan poses a greater threat to New Delhi. India’s participation in the Quad security forum, which includes Australia, Japan, and the US, further demonstrates its alignment with like-minded countries.
In response and prior to PM Modi’s visit, China expressed concerns about the prospects of India bolstering its partnership with the US. Chinese diplomat Yi emphasized that India cannot replace China in global supply chains and asserted that India’s trade with the US cannot substitute its trade with China. China’s state media outlet, Global Times, published an article raising doubts about India’s ability to surpass China in technology and innovation.
Modi’s visit to the US holds immense significance, as he became the third world leader, after the French President and the South Korean President, to be invited for a state visit and a dinner hosted by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. The visit aims to strengthen the shared commitment to a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region, as well as elevate the strategic technology partnership between India and the US, encompassing defense, clean energy, and space cooperation.
Overall, Modi’s visit underscores the increasing importance of Indo-US relations in countering China’s influence, with both countries recognizing the need for collaboration on various fronts, ranging from defense to technological advancements.
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