In a significant diplomatic meeting, India and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate in vital areas such as defense, space, and clean energy. The meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Antony Blinken took place amid ongoing tensions between India and Canada related to the killing of a Khalistani separatist.
High-Level Interaction Amidst Diplomatic Tensions
Jaishankar, currently on a five-day official trip to Washington, D.C., engaged in this high-level interaction, marking the most significant engagement between the two countries since the recent G-20 Summit in New Delhi.
During their meeting, the two top diplomats discussed a wide range of issues, including India’s G20 presidency outcomes and the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to generate transparent and sustainable infrastructure investments. They emphasized the continued importance of cooperation, especially in the areas of defense, space, and clean energy, ahead of the upcoming 2+2 Dialogue.
Fifth Edition of India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue Announced
Jaishankar announced that New Delhi will host the fifth edition of the India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, with dates expected to fall in the first half of November. The U.S. delegation will be led by Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, while Jaishankar and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh will head the Indian delegation.
Positive Outlook for Collaboration in Emerging Technologies
Jaishankar also highlighted discussions on critical and emerging technologies and the creation of resilient supply chains in a meeting convened by a prominent forum. He expressed enthusiasm about India’s growing prominence in corporate boardrooms and the expanding possibilities for collaboration.
Diplomatic Row Between India and Canada
The meeting took place against the backdrop of a diplomatic dispute between India and Canada regarding the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged Indian government involvement in the killing, a claim that India has vehemently rejected.
Productive Discussions on Bilateral Relationship
Jaishankar, who arrived in Washington, D.C., after addressing the UN General Assembly, held a series of meetings with top U.S. officials, discussing the positive trajectory of the U.S.-India trade relationship and broader global transformations.
Future Engagement
On Friday, Jaishankar is scheduled to address the prestigious Hudson Institute think-tank on ‘India’s Role in the World Today.’ The visit underscores the growing significance of the India-US partnership on the global stage.
(With PTI Inputs)