The United States is committed to taking its defence partnership with India to the next level, a State Department spokesperson said on Tuesday, underscoring the growing strategic convergence between the two nations.
US Reaffirms Commitment to Defence Cooperation
Tommy Pigott, the State Department spokesperson, stated that the US is dedicated to enhancing defence ties with India. He emphasized that the relationship has evolved significantly over the years, with both countries working closely on issues of mutual interest.
Strategic Partnership Deepens
The remarks come amid a series of high-level engagements between the two countries, including defence dialogues and joint military exercises. The US and India have been strengthening their strategic partnership, focusing on areas such as maritime security, counterterrorism, and technology sharing.
Pigott highlighted that the US views India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region and is committed to deepening defence cooperation. He noted that the two nations are exploring new avenues for collaboration, including in emerging technologies and defence industrial cooperation.
Next Level of Engagement
When asked about the specific aspects of the next-level defence ties, Pigott mentioned that the US is looking to enhance interoperability between the armed forces of the two countries. This includes more complex joint exercises and increased information sharing.
Additionally, the US is keen on advancing defence trade and technology sharing with India. Pigott expressed optimism about the future of US-India defence relations, stating that both countries are committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The spokesperson also touched upon the recent signing of the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) between the US and India, which aims to ensure reliable access to critical national security resources. This agreement is expected to bolster defence industrial cooperation and supply chain resilience.
Furthermore, the US and India are working on implementing the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) and the Industrial Security Annex (ISA), which facilitate deeper defence technology sharing. These agreements are part of the broader framework of the US-India Major Defence Partner status.
Pigott concluded by reiterating that the US remains steadfast in its commitment to India's security and prosperity, and looks forward to elevating the defence partnership to unprecedented levels.
