EAM Jaishankar’s Washington DC visit accentuates the depth and diversity of the Indo-US partnership
The India-US relationship, nurtured over decades, once again took the spotlight as India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar embarked on an important Washington DC visit. The first day (Thursday - September 28, 2023) was a power-packed series of strategic discussions and high-profile meetings, painting a clear picture of the multifaceted approach both nations are keen to pursue.
 
Highlighting his interaction with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, EAM Jaishankar took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), saying, "Great to meet my friend US Secretary of State @SecBlinken at State Department today. A wide-ranging discussion, following up on PM @narendramodi’s June visit. Also exchanged notes on global developments."
 
Taking place at the State Department, this discussion aimed to pave the way for the much-anticipated 2+2 bilateral meeting. Their interaction underscored the nations' joint commitment to uphold democratic values, collaborate on pressing global challenges, and further deep-rooted ties. The dialogue was enriched by the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's highly productive state visit in June, which had already laid an extensive groundwork for cooperative ventures, ranging from ambitious space projects to health initiatives aimed at global welfare.
 
US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller provided further insights into their discussions: "Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar today in Washington, D.C. Secretary Blinken and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar discussed a full range of issues, including key outcomes of India’s G20 presidency, and the creation of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and its potential to generate transparent, sustainable, and high-standard infrastructure investments. The Secretary and the External Affairs Minister also emphasized the continued importance of cooperation ahead of the upcoming 2+2 Dialogue, in particular in the areas of defense, space, and clean energy."
 
However, EAM Jaishankar's visit was not limited to government corridors. He made it a point to meet with Members of Congress, key figures in the business world, and prominent think tank representatives at the elegant India House. These conversations serve as the lifeblood of the India-US dynamic, providing opportunities for both nations to reflect, recalibrate, and reaffirm shared objectives. In an era of rapidly shifting geopolitical landscapes, such consistent and open dialogues are essential. They not only offer a pulse check on bilateral ties but also enable both sides to synchronize their strategies in larger global contexts.
 
Trade, an ever-potent aspect of bilateral relations, also featured prominently. The EAM's meeting with US Trade Representative Katherine Tai was indicative of both nations' shared determination to nurture an economic relationship that benefits not just the two countries but has ramifications for global economic stability. Their discussions weren't just about numbers or statistics; they represented the intertwined economic aspirations of over a billion people combined. The recent termination of disputes at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) serves as a testament to the commitment both sides have towards resolving issues amicably and collaboratively.
 
In the digital age, the tech domain stands as a linchpin of modern diplomacy. Recognizing this, EAM Jaishankar engaged in an intensive focus session on India-US collaboration in critical and emerging technologies, convened by the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF).
 
“Focused discussion on India-US collaboration on critical and emerging tech and creating resilient supply chains at discussion convened by @USISPForum. Glad to know that India is the major talking point in corporate boardrooms. Our collaboration offers more possibilities with each passing day,” he wrote on X.
 
Their discussion spanned topics like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and quantum computing. With India emerging as a tech powerhouse and the US continuing its technological leadership, these dialogues are pivotal. The EAM's emphasis on India becoming a major talking point in corporate boardrooms across the globe illustrates how Indian innovation and entrepreneurship are being acknowledged and how they offer myriad possibilities for joint ventures and collaborations.
 
A significant moment during the day was EAM Jaishankar's acknowledgment, standing in the grandeur of the State Department's Treaty Room, of the US's support to India's G-20 presidency. His eager anticipation of hosting Secretary Blinken for the 2+2 dialogue was not just about the event but represented the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect that has characterized Indo-US relations over the years.
 
Another important interaction that the EAM had was with the think tanks of Washington. Accompanied by India’s Ambassador to the U.S Taranjit Singh Sandhu, the session highlighted transformations occurring globally and India's evolving role in such dynamics. In an era marked by complex geopolitical challenges, from climate change to regional security issues, understanding and aligning with think tanks helps in shaping policy decisions that are both informed and forward-looking.
 
To sum it up, EAM Jaishankar's first day was a holistic encapsulation of what Indo-US ties represent today: a blend of strategic partnerships, mutual respect, shared challenges, and above all, an unwavering commitment to democratic values and global well-being. As the world watches, it's evident that the relationship's trajectory is on an upward curve, poised to shape global narratives in the coming decades.