Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Republican candidate Donald Trump, who appeared to be on the verge of securing a historic comeback in the U.S. presidential elections. Modi’s message on X was both celebratory and forward-looking, as he addressed Trump as a "friend" and commended the accomplishments of his previous term. Modi expressed optimism about continuing collaborative efforts to strengthen the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership, a relationship that has been strategically prioritized by both nations. Modi’s message, which resonated with aspirations for global peace, stability, and prosperity, highlighted India’s intention to further advance shared objectives, from economic ties to defense and technological cooperation.
Trump, reportedly close to obtaining the required 270 electoral votes, has so far secured 267 according to recent projections, with Pennsylvania and other swing states leaning in his favor. The anticipation around Trump’s victory is significant for U.S.-India relations, as his previous term was marked by closer diplomatic, economic, and defense ties with India. Trump’s presidency saw notable agreements, including defense and energy deals, a focus on shared security interests in the Indo-Pacific, and an emphasis on countering terrorism. Modi and Trump shared a public camaraderie, evidenced by events like the "Howdy, Modi!" and "Namaste Trump" gatherings, which symbolized the warmth in bilateral relations and rallied diaspora communities in both countries.
As India prepares to engage with a potentially renewed Trump administration, there is a palpable expectation of continuity in policy. Modi’s statement emphasized shared values and ambitions, reinforcing that India considers the U.S. a pivotal partner in its vision for regional and global stability. Notably, India has emerged as a key partner for the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific strategy, a critical component of countering regional challenges. Strengthened U.S.-India ties are also integral to India’s economic aspirations, as both nations have explored synergies in technology, trade, and infrastructure, with Trump previously advocating for deeper economic integration with India.
In parallel, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s remarks at an event in Canberra provided a pragmatic outlook on U.S. foreign policy trends. Jaishankar observed that regardless of the election result, the U.S. was likely to lean towards a more isolationist approach, a trend visible since the Obama administration. "The U.S. has become more cautious about its global commitments," Jaishankar noted, pointing to recent U.S. decisions like the troop withdrawal from Afghanistan under President Joe Biden. Jaishankar suggested that Trump’s approach, known for its clear stance on prioritizing U.S. interests, might only make this tendency more pronounced. "It’s important to look at the U.S. more nationally than purely in terms of the ideology of the administration of the day," he added, highlighting the strategic importance for India of cultivating a strong, resilient partnership with the U.S. that transcends individual administrations.
The Indian government’s approach underscores a nuanced understanding of U.S. policy, grounded in a long-term strategy that adapts to shifts in American priorities. In today’s multipolar world, Jaishankar emphasized, countries like India, Australia, and New Zealand are increasingly stepping up to shape the global landscape they envision, based on collaborative and consensual arrangements. New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters shared similar sentiments, observing, "There is more protectionism. The world we were once trying to build on is changing, and we'll have to react and change with it." This collective stance by the three nations reflects a shared resolve to take on more active roles in global governance.
With Modi’s message signaling readiness to deepen ties, India’s stance suggests it sees opportunities to leverage a strategic relationship with the U.S., especially as the global balance of power evolves. Whether through defense partnerships, trade initiatives, or joint efforts to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific, India is positioning itself as a steadfast partner to the U.S., contributing to shared regional and global goals. The evolving dynamics signal a commitment to not just preserving but expanding the scope of the India-U.S. relationship in a manner that adapts to both national interests and international realities.
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