Relationship between India and the US is best reflected in two plus two dialogue format

Terming two plus two ministerial dialogue as reflective of Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the US, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday said, “The 2+2 dialogue has a political-military agenda that underlines our close bilateral relationship.”

As the Indo-Pacific region was a focus of the two plus two ministerial dialogue, the EAM said the two sides “reiterated the importance of peace, stability and prosperity for all countries in this region.”

“As Raksha Mantri stated, this is possible only by upholding the rules based international order, ensuring the freedom of navigation in the international seas, promoting open connectivity and respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states. A multi-polar world must have a multi-polar Asia as its basis,” the EAM added.

The two sides also discussed developments in India’s neighbouring countries. In this regard, Jaishankar said, “We made clear that cross-border terrorism is completely unacceptable. On Afghanistan, India’s stakes in its security and stability are evident, as is our willingness to contribute to international efforts to that end.”

Stating that bilateral relationship between the two countries in the last few years has been “exceptionally positive,” Jaishankar maintained, “Political consultations and cooperation have grown, defence exchanges and trade too, economic interactions and commerce are up, the partnership in science, technology and innovation is stronger and our energy security clearly enhanced.”

Terming people-to-people contacts as “unique,” he said bilateral engagement remains vibrant, whether in the flow of talent, in education or in tourism.

He said national security convergences between the two countries have grown in the multi-polar world. “We meet today to not only advance our own interests but to ensure that our bilateral cooperation makes a positive contribution in the world arena. We are also committed to addressing together global issues ranging from HADR situations to maritime security and counter-terrorism,”

During the meeting, the two sides also discussed their experiences in responding to the Covid-19 challenge at some length. “Today, our collaboration concentrates more on the domains of vaccine and testing that are so central to the return of normalcy. We are also committed to creating more trusted and resilient global supply chains. An India that is now focussed on recovery, resilience and reform welcomes an expanded partnership with the United States,” the EAM said.

With regard to India which is entering the UN Security Council on January 1, 2021 as a non-permanent member, he said, “We look forward to working with the United States there, as in other multilateral platforms.”