23.06.2023
U.S. President Joe Biden and Narendra Modi hailed a new era in their countries’ relationship during the Indian prime minister’s visit to Washington. Narendra Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome by President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden. Thousands of Indian-Americans were also present at the occasion to welcome the Prime Minister.
It is no secret that the US sees India as a possible strategic counterweight to China and Modi was warmly received in Washington.
After Biden and Modi spoke privately for more than two hours, a joint statement included a warning of rising tensions and destabilizing actions in the East and South China Sea and stressed the importance of international law and freedom of navigation.
The US and India announced agreements on semiconductors, critical minerals, technology, space cooperation and defence cooperation and sales.
Some are aimed at diversifying supply chains to reduce dependence on China. Others are aimed at cornering the market in advanced technologies that may feature on the battlefields of
the future.
The two countries also ended disputes at the World Trade Organization, and India removed some tariffs on U.S. goods. The United States is India’s largest trading partner.
Biden and Modi signed off on a deal to allow General Electric to produce jet engines in India to power Indian military aircraft, through an agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics.
Also, U.S. Navy ships in the region will be able to stop in Indian shipyards for repairs under a maritime agreement, and India will procure U.S.-made armed MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones.
U.S. chipmaker Micron Technology’s plans a $2.7 billion semiconductor testing and packaging unit, to be built in Modi’s home state of Gujarat.
The U.S. will also make it easier for skilled Indian workers to get and renew U.S. visas.
India also agreed to join the U.S.-led Artemis Accords on space exploration and to work with NASA on a joint mission to the International Space Station in 2024.
