In a diplomatic analysis, the Council on Foreign Relations underscores that despite the burgeoning warmth in relations between the United States and India, a traditional alliance between the two nations remains elusive. India, characterized as a “very independent” nation, is resolute in preserving its autonomy in decision-making, abstaining from entering into a conventional alliance. Alyssa Ayres, an adjunct senior fellow specializing in India, Pakistan, and South Asia at the Council on Foreign Relations, elucidated that such traditional alliances engender an undue level of deference on the part of the partnering country. India is steadfast in safeguarding its freedom to chart its course without constraint, even under the auspices of an alliance agreement.
Disagreements persist between the two nations, notably regarding their stances on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. While Washington has openly condemned Russia’s actions, New Delhi has chosen a more cautious approach. India has been acquiring discounted Russian oil since the commencement of the conflict in February of the previous year, and approximately 40% of its crude oil supply now emanates from Moscow. Ayres acknowledged this as an area of discord between American foreign policy interests and Indian interests.
Nonetheless, although a conventional alliance may not be on the horizon, the partnership between the United States and India continues to strengthen, particularly in the realm of technology. Recent collaborative endeavors encompass diversifying supply chains and cooperation in the domains of space and artificial intelligence. Technology serves as a pivotal catalyst in enhancing this bilateral relationship, offering potential models and ideas that can be exported to other regions, particularly in the global south. India’s digital infrastructure, for instance, has proven transformative, facilitating financial inclusion for previously unbanked populations. This technology-driven partnership is poised to take center stage, as exemplified during the ongoing G20 summit.
while the conventional trappings of an alliance remain distant, India and the United States forge ahead with a robust partnership characterized by a commitment to autonomy and bolstered by technological cooperation.
– Disagreements on Russia-Ukraine Conflict: The divergence in viewpoints on the Russia-Ukraine war remains a significant point of contention. India’s continued import of discounted Russian oil, constituting 40% of its crude supply, stands in contrast to Washington’s condemnation of Russia’s actions. This incongruity reflects a persistent area of disagreement between the two nations.
– Emphasis on Technology Cooperation: Technology stands at the forefront of the growing partnership, with collaborative efforts encompassing supply chain diversification and joint ventures in space and artificial intelligence. This technological synergy is recognized as pivotal in strengthening the bilateral relationship.
– India’s Exportable Models: India’s domestic models and innovations, tested successfully within the country, hold potential relevance for other regions, particularly in the global south. These models, exemplified by India’s digital infrastructure facilitating financial inclusion, can be exported and scaled effectively.
– G20 Summit Showcases India’s Technological Prowess: The ongoing G20 summit serves as a platform to highlight India’s technological achievements and contributions, particularly in the context of the global south. India’s digital infrastructure’s transformative impact is poised to garner attention during the summit proceedings.
