The leaders met in Wilmington, North Carolina, where President Biden hosted Prime Minister Modi at his private residence. During the interaction, Modi conveyed his deep appreciation for Biden’s exceptional contributions to advancing the India-US strategic partnership. This meeting underscored the expanding ties between the two nations, building on a series of diplomatic exchanges over the past year, including Modi’s state visit to Washington and Biden’s trip to India for the G20 summit.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in a statement noted that the Prime Minister reflected on how these high-level visits have infused greater dynamism into the bilateral relationship. Modi emphasised that the India-US partnership has now evolved into a comprehensive global strategic alliance that touches upon nearly every aspect of human endeavor, driven by shared democratic principles, common interests, and robust people-to-people connections.
Discussions between the two leaders also included a broad review of global and regional issues. The focus was particularly on the Indo-Pacific region, where both countries share strategic interests. While the US has been steadily reinforcing its position as a Pacific power, India’s role in the region has grown more pronounced. The conversation between Biden and Modi signaled further cooperation in this key region, which has been at the heart of geopolitical tensions, including China’s territorial ambitions and maritime security concerns.
Another major point of discussion was India's role in the United Nations. The US backing for India’s permanent seat in the UNSC marks a significant diplomatic win for India, which has been lobbying for a more prominent role in global governance. A permanent seat for India in the Security Council would signal a shift in the post-World War II international order, reflecting the rise of new powers in the global arena. Biden reiterated that India’s leadership and values make it a deserving candidate for this role, especially in a time when the UNSC faces calls for reform to address contemporary global challenges more effectively.
As Modi’s visit to Ukraine has garnered international attention, it is seen as part of India’s larger diplomatic efforts to position itself as a mediator in global conflicts. While India has traditionally maintained a policy of non-alignment, its balancing act between Russia and the West during the Ukraine conflict has been scrutinized. By sending a message of peace in Kyiv, Modi has taken a decisive step in navigating India’s role as a bridge between opposing global powers. His visit came at a time when India has managed to sustain strong ties with both Russia and the West, even as global pressure mounts on nations to take a firmer stance on the conflict.
The geopolitical significance of Modi’s Ukraine visit cannot be understated. It places India in a unique position, offering diplomatic maneuvering between Russia, a historical defense partner, and Western powers, with whom India’s economic and strategic relations have deepened. As global tensions over Ukraine persist, India’s ability to maintain this delicate balance, while advocating for peace and stability, has earned it praise from various quarters, including the US.
The bilateral meeting also touched upon key aspects of economic cooperation, with both leaders agreeing to further deepen trade and investment ties. India and the US have been working closely on a range of sectors, from technology and defense to energy and climate change. In recent years, the US has become one of India’s largest trading partners, and the two countries have collaborated on several major defense deals. The two leaders agreed to explore new opportunities for cooperation in cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and space.
Moreover, Biden and Modi discussed the broader implications of their partnership on global supply chains, a matter of critical importance as countries seek to diversify in the aftermath of pandemic-induced disruptions. India’s growing role as a manufacturing hub, coupled with its increasing integration into global supply networks, has positioned it as a key player in the global economy. Both leaders agreed that further strengthening economic and strategic ties would not only benefit their respective nations but also contribute to global stability.
Another focal point of the discussions was the Indo-Pacific region. As both the US and India face shared concerns regarding China’s assertive posture in the region, they reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. The Quad, an informal security alliance between the US, India, Japan, and Australia, has become an essential platform for dialogue and cooperation in this regard. The two leaders expressed their intent to continue working closely within the Quad framework, particularly in areas like maritime security, infrastructure development, and climate resilience.
On the topic of defense, Biden and Modi explored opportunities for further collaboration under the existing defense partnership agreements. India’s continued efforts to modernize its military and expand its defense manufacturing capabilities have aligned with the US’s strategy of deepening defense ties with its partners in Asia. Both countries have also been coordinating in joint military exercises and exchanging advanced defense technologies.
At the same time, climate change was a key issue of mutual concern, with both leaders reiterating their commitment to the Paris Agreement and sustainable development goals. As two of the world’s largest economies, India and the US have a significant role to play in addressing global climate challenges. Modi highlighted India’s ambitious renewable energy goals, and Biden expressed support for collaborative initiatives aimed at promoting clean energy and reducing carbon emissions.
The broader regional context of the meeting also involved discussions on Afghanistan and South Asia. Modi and Biden shared views on stabilizing the region following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, focusing on the humanitarian and security challenges that continue to emerge. Both leaders emphasized the need for continued international engagement to ensure stability in Afghanistan, a concern shared by many of India’s neighbors.