North Carolina: During a bilateral meeting at his home, US President Joe Biden commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his historic visit to Ukraine, emphasizing his “message of peace amid ongoing conflict” with Russia. The White House also expressed support for India’s permanent membership in the UN Security Council, stating that the US is “committed to reforming global institutions to reflect India’s important voice.”
Boost for India-US Ties
The meeting marked a pivotal moment in enhancing India-US relations. Prime Minister Modi conveyed his appreciation for President Biden's “unparalleled contributions” to strengthening the partnership, as noted by the Ministry of External Affairs. “The visits have led to greater dynamism and depth in the India-US partnership,” Modi stated. The two leaders discussed ways to deepen cooperation across various sectors, highlighting that both nations now enjoy a “comprehensive global strategic partnership.”
India's Global Role
President Biden praised India's leadership on the world stage, particularly under Prime Minister Modi's guidance during the G20. “India is at the forefront of efforts to seek solutions to the most pressing challenges,” Biden said, noting India’s commitment to addressing global issues, including the pandemic and conflict resolution. He also highlighted Modi’s dedication to strengthening the Quad, reinforcing the need for a “free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”
Space to Semiconductors
The White House celebrated the success of the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) in expanding cooperation in key technology sectors. “Both Leaders committed to enhance regular engagements to improve the momentum of collaboration in fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum, biotechnology, and clean energy,” the statement read. They hailed plans for a semiconductor fabrication plant, with Biden stating that “this will support national security and next-generation telecommunications.”
Impetus to Defence Ties
President Biden welcomed the progress in India’s procurement of 31 General Atomics MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft, which will enhance India's intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. “This partnership is vital for our mutual security,” he remarked. The leaders also recognized advancements in defence industrial cooperation, with Biden highlighting India’s decision to simplify its tax structure on maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, calling it a “significant step for building a robust aviation ecosystem.”
Clean Energy Initiatives
The Prime Minister and President Biden reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating clean energy supply chains through US-India collaboration. The White House announced that initial efforts aim to unlock “$1 billion of multilateral financing to support projects across the clean energy value chain.” Biden stated, “We must work together to unlock the potential of clean energy technologies,” emphasizing the partnership’s role in addressing climate change.
Promoting Global Health and Development
The two leaders celebrated the new US-India Drug Policy Framework, designed to combat the illicit production and trafficking of synthetic drugs. “This framework will deepen our holistic public health partnership,” Biden noted. They also applauded the inaugural U.S.-India Cancer Dialogue held in August 2024, with Modi asserting that “tackling cancer requires collaboration and innovation.” Furthermore, enhanced cooperation in agriculture was highlighted, with both sides committing to improve productivity and share best practices, reinforcing their collaborative spirit.