During a special session at the Ananta Centre on March 24, US Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby emphasized the United States’ deep respect for India, highlighting the country’s rich strategic heritage and its growing influence over the Indo-Pacific’s future. Colby noted that while the US and India differ in history, geography, and perspective, both nations share a fundamental belief that Asia’s future should be shaped by sovereign nations charting their own course.
Colby, currently visiting New Delhi to engage with senior Indian officials, stressed that India is not only a key partner for the US but also essential in maintaining a favorable long-term balance of power in Asia. He pointed to India’s strategic position astride the Indian Ocean, its economic potential, and its self-reliant military capabilities as reasons why the country plays a critical role in regional security. According to Colby, India’s status as the world’s largest republic gives it symbolic and political influence that extends far beyond its borders.
The US official highlighted that Washington’s approach to the strategic partnership with India is pragmatic, interest-driven, and grounded in geopolitical realities rather than lofty ideals. “We fully acknowledge India’s distinct strategic priorities and its willingness to assert them,” Colby said, adding that India’s foreign policy—referred to by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar as ‘Bharat First’ and ‘the India Way’—reflects a results-focused, sovereign approach similar to America First and flexible realism.
Colby also pointed to the framework of the US-India Major Defense Partnership, signed last October by US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, as a strong foundation for advancing bilateral cooperation in defense and security. The partnership underscores both countries’ commitment to shared regional stability and practical collaboration on critical strategic challenges, reinforcing India’s indispensable role in shaping the Indo-Pacific’s security landscape.
