Secretary of State describes the relationship between India and the US as “consequential and far-reaching,” built on shared democratic values, mutual respect, and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors…reports Asian Lite News
Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the strength of the India-US relationship and their shared commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region.
While extending his warm wishes to the people of India on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, the US Secretary of State, in a statement, highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the world’s oldest and largest democracies.
He described the relationship between India and the US as “consequential and far-reaching,” built on shared democratic values, mutual respect, and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
“On behalf of the United States, I extend our congratulations and warm wishes to the people of India as they celebrate their Independence Day on August 15,” Rubio said in a statement released by the US Department of State on Thursday (local time).
“The historic relationship between the world’s largest democracy and the world’s oldest democracy is consequential and far-reaching. Our two countries are united by our shared vision for a more peaceful, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region. Our partnership spans industries, promotes innovation, pushes the boundaries of critical and emerging technologies, and extends into space. Working together, the United States and India will rise to the modern challenges of today and ensure a brighter future for both our countries,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, on Friday, the US Embassy in India extended its greeting to mark the 79th Independence Day of India, highlighting the shared values and celebrations of the occasion.
“Happy Independence Day, India! The United States joins India in celebrating this important occasion, honouring our shared achievements in advancing global peace and prosperity. We look forward to strengthening the #USIndia partnership in the years ahead,” The US Embassy in India stated in a post on X.
This year, the celebrations carry the theme ‘Naya Bharat’, reflecting the government’s vision of achieving ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.
With the concerns of US President Donald Trump’s tariffs looming over India, former Deputy National Security Advisor Pankaj Saran has called for a measured and realistic approach in dealing with the trade tensions, particularly on how New Delhi should respond to the tariffs imposed by Washington.
Speaking to ANI on the complexities of navigating the US-India trade relations under Trump’s trade policies, Saran emphasised that “bravado and rash” actions would be counterproductive given the asymmetry in power between the two nations, highlighting the need for strategic caution in addressing the ongoing tariff disputes.
“Everyone here is still wanting to play this carefully because the stakes are so high in the India-US relationship. I think what you’re seeing is a recognition of the fact that there is an asymmetry out here. You’re dealing with a global power. You’re not an equal,” Saran said.
“You have to be realistic. Bravado and being rash and thumping your chest or the table is not actually going to help. So, that is what I think so far, and I also think it’s all work in progress. I don’t know whether there is a full stop in the Trumpian approach to India, or if he could relieve the pressure,” he added.
A seasoned diplomat, Saran acknowledged the shifting tone in bilateral relations between the two nations, stating that after a “fairly nice honeymoon phase”, India is now “getting into his crosshairs”, drawing parallels with Trump’s past dealings with China, Russia, and Europe.
“We can see both happening. Basically, he’s testing. Again, if I look at what he’s done with China or with Russia or with Europe, you can see all… The speeds of the car working the brake, the accelerator, everything. I think now, it is now after eight months or seven months that he’s turned his attention to us. And we lived through a fairly nice honeymoon phase for the first few months. But now we’re getting into his crosshairs,” the former deputy NSA added.
Addressing the contrasting leadership styles of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Donald Trump, Saran reflected on the US President’s approach to dealing with the issue, noting that the US President operates with a unique and unpredictable style, treating global relations as a “chessboard” and a “deal-making platform.”
He also highlighted the inherent uncertainty in dealing with Trump, underscoring his highly personal and opaque decision-making process.
