At a recent event at Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) in Washington, DC, Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the growing collaboration between India and the United States. Blinken highlighted the dynamism of the U.S.-India strategic partnership, citing cooperation in advanced semiconductors and defense.
During Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to the U.S. in June, the White House announced significant investments of US $3.55 billion by American companies in a semiconductor assembly and test facility in India. This investment aimed to diversify India’s semiconductor supply chain and promote semiconductor education and workforce development by having Lam Research train 60,000 Indian engineers.
Blinken also touched upon the strengthened Quad partnership between the United States, India, Japan, and Australia. This alliance is focused on addressing China’s assertiveness in maritime issues in the Indo-Pacific. Blinken highlighted the alignment and coordination among Quad members as part of the U.S. administration’s strategy towards China.
Secretary Blinken reiterated the ambitious projects announced jointly by Prime Minister Modi and President Biden during Biden’s visit to India for the G20 Summit. These projects include the development of transportation, energy, and technology corridors connecting Asia, the Middle East, and Europe’s ports. Blinken noted the involvement of the European Union, Italy, Germany, France, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE in this initiative, which aims to boost clean energy production, digital connectivity, and strengthen supply chains across the region.
