Global Courant
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming state visit to the United States has sparked curiosity and controversy amid Modi’s alleged human rights violations and divisive policies. While India’s foreign minister has expressed a worldview regarding “enemies”, emphasizing the absence of true allies, President Joe Biden sees India as a critical partner in tackling global challenges such as climate change, disruptions of artificial intelligence and China’s growing power in the Indian Ocean. Pacific region.
Biden aims to strengthen ties with India as part of his administration’s focus on Asia and building partnerships in the face of an emerging China. Meanwhile, Modi is trying to fulfill his pledge to bring prosperity to India and boost economic and military cooperation with the United States. Concerns about Chinese military activity along the border and in the Indian Ocean have further motivated India’s interest in a closer relationship with the US
Despite these shared interests, Biden faces human rights challenges. Human Rights Watch and other organizations have called on Biden to address the deteriorating human rights situation in India. They point to Modi’s role in the 2002 anti-Muslim riots in Gujarat and the recent passage of legislation excluding Muslims from accelerated naturalization. However, the Indian government has defended its human rights record.
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President Joe Biden, right, meets with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Quad leaders’ summit at Kantei Palace, May 24, 2022, in Tokyo.
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Another problem is India’s increasing dependence on cheap Russian oil since the Russian invasion of Ukraine. While the US has personally urged India to reduce its dependence on Russian oil, the Biden administration has taken a cautious approach so as not to jeopardize the broader relationship between the US and India. Nevertheless, India is showing some signs of leaving Russia.
Trade between the US and India reached a record high in 2022 and defense sales have increased significantly. The state visit will include discussions on deepening defense cooperation and partnerships in higher education and space exploration. However, it may take decades for India to become less dependent on Russian military equipment, which currently accounts for 65% of its defense inventory.
Overall, the US-India relationship is promising and important for both countries. While critics highlight India’s human rights issues and ties to Russia, Biden sees India as an important partner in addressing major global challenges and countering China’s influence. The state visit offers both leaders a chance to advance their respective agendas and strengthen the partnership.
The Associated Press contributed to this report
