India and the United States have committed to enhancing defense and technology collaboration and eliminating barriers to strategic trade following a meeting between their national security advisers. The visit by the U.S. National Security Adviser marks the first high-ranking official visit since Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent re-election.
The two countries discussed progress on the Initiative on Critical Emerging Technologies, focusing on semiconductor production and artificial intelligence development. This collaboration facilitated a deal allowing General Electric to partner with India's Hindustan Aeronautics for jet engine production in India.
Both officials stressed the importance of increased cooperation, particularly in funding research in semiconductor manufacturing, clean energy, and machine learning. They also explored potential joint production of land warfare systems.
The U.S. National Security Adviser also met with Prime Minister Modi and Foreign Minister Jaishankar to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. The visit aims to further enhance relations between the two countries, especially in light of China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
However, recent challenges have strained the relationship, including accusations against an Indian government official for plotting the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in the U.S. This incident led to the extradition of an Indian national to the U.S. to face charges related to the assassination plot.
Similar allegations were made by Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau regarding Indian government involvement in the assassination of a Sikh activist in Canada. While India denied these accusations, it has initiated an investigation into the U.S. allegations.
