Portrait of Narendra Modi
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Narendra Modi on United States Relations

Strategic Pragmatist Ally (strong)

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the relationship between India and the United States has fundamentally transformed from an ideology-driven alignment to a pragmatic, interest-based global strategic partnership.

Modi has actively worked to deepen bilateral ties across trade, defence, and technology, emphasizing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region despite occasional bilateral strains over issues like tariffs or defence sourcing.

His approach signifies a deliberate shift from India's historical non-aligned stance to one focused on long-term strategic goals and mutual interests with the US.

Context

The relationship with the United States is a critical component of Modi's foreign policy, marking a significant evolution from India's post-independence non-aligned posture.

His tenure has seen a clear emphasis on strategic cooperation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, redefining the partnership based on shared interests rather than ideological proximity.

Timeline

  1. Following his appointment as Prime Minister, the relationship with the US rapidly improved, which was an unexpected development given the US State Department had previously denied him a visa due to his record on the 2002 Gujarat riots.
  2. During a visit to the US, PM Modi and the US President reaffirmed commitment to fully realize the US-India 123 Civil Nuclear Agreement, moving forward with building US-designed nuclear reactors in India.
  3. Following strains due to US tariffs and pressure over Russian oil purchases, PM Modi publicly stated that New Delhi and Washington still shared “very positive” ties and a “forward-looking comprehensive and global strategic partnership” after the US President reaffirmed their personal friendship.

Actions Taken

  1. Diplomacy
    Engaged in informal diplomacy, including personal gestures like receiving visiting US dignitaries with hugs, to strengthen the relationship.
  2. Bilateral Talks
    Focused on expanding cooperation in trade, critical technologies, energy, defence, and security during high-level discussions.
  3. Nuclear Cooperation
    Participated in efforts to advance the US-India 123 Civil Nuclear Agreement by working towards building US-designed nuclear reactors in India, potentially involving technology transfer.

Related Positions

  • Make in India A key initiative Modi used to attract foreign investment from various sources, including the US.
  • Act East Policy This policy, an evolution of the 'Look East Policy,' involves directing foreign policy towards East Asia and Southeast Asia, aligning strategically with US interests in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Quad Cooperation Bilateral ties are significantly deepened through regional cooperation initiatives like the Quad, which involves India and the US.

Criticism

Some Indian Analysts

Expressed a pessimistic outlook regarding the future of India-US relations under the US administration's emphasis on “rigid transactionalism,” especially concerning strategic partnerships and immigration.

US Government (Trump Administration)

Imposed high tariffs, up to 50 percent, on Indian imports, accusing India of fueling Moscow's attacks on Ukraine by purchasing Russian oil.

Comparison

  • Style of Engagement: The style has shifted from an ideological, non-aligned, and at times anti-American stance to a pragmatic approach focused on interest-based policies.
  • Strategic Focus: The direction has moved towards greater strategic cooperation, especially in the Indo-Pacific region, contrasting with earlier ideological inflexibility.