The official visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the United States is expected to elevate the India-US bilateral relationship, according to a senior government official. The official emphasized that this upgraded relationship would not impact India’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Following the visit, global observers will assess how India’s reaffirmed “middle of the road” position in international affairs will evolve in the future.
The Indian establishment is urging Western critics not to draw parallels between Modi’s visit and US President Richard Nixon’s 1972 visit to China, which led to significant investments by US companies and transformed China’s destiny. Modi’s upcoming visit does not appear to follow the same business model as China or resemble European countries’ partnerships with the US.
India is primarily focused on engaging with future-oriented companies like Google, Microsoft, and Cisco, as well as those involved in Artificial Intelligence research. India seeks investments and technologies from American industry leaders. However, this visit is not expected to be a transformative “turning point” akin to the Nixon-Kissinger vision for China in the 1970s.
The visit aims to deepen current strategic positions and establish a new and elevated level of engagement. It represents a unique relationship that combines geographical realities with economic transactions, distinct from the dynamics of China or Western partnerships.
