India and US Strengthen Defence and Trade Relations During Diplomatic Talks
Strengthening Ties: A Diplomatic Visit
Foreign Secretary Misri, with India's Ambassador to U.S. Vinay Kwatra during the launch of Trade Facilitation Portal. (Photo:X)
Washington, Apr 9: Vikram Misri, India's Foreign Secretary, engaged with high-ranking US officials to explore avenues for enhancing defence and trade relations, while also discussing the current situations in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia.
During his three-day visit, Misri held discussions with Under Secretaries Michael Duffey and Elbridge Colby from the Department of Defence, as well as Jeffrey Kessler and William Kimmitt from the Department of Commerce.
According to a social media update from the Indian Embassy in the US, Misri had an extensive dialogue with Under Secretary of War for Policy, Elbridge Colby, at the Pentagon, focusing on ongoing developments in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia.
Colby had previously visited India and met with Misri in New Delhi during the India-US Defence Policy Group meeting last month.
Misri also had a productive meeting with Mike Duffey, the Under Secretary for Acquisition and Sustainment at the Pentagon, where they discussed enhancing defence industrial, technology, and supply chain connections between India and the US, in line with the Major Defence Partnership Framework established last year.
Additionally, Misri met with Under Secretaries Jeffrey Kessler and William Kimmitt from the Department of Commerce to discuss expanding cooperation in commercial and critical technologies, which are essential for evolving the India-US partnership in the 21st century. They also addressed the importance of building resilient and trusted supply chains.
This visit aims to review and strengthen bilateral trade and defence relations while addressing global issues, including the crisis in West Asia. Misri's trip is particularly significant as both nations strive to stabilize their relationship following a period of uncertainty and tension.
The relationship faced challenges after the US imposed tariffs on India and President Donald Trump made contentious remarks regarding his involvement in de-escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan last May.