Indian Prime Minister Modi has made a state visit to the United States. The country is increasingly being courted by the American government. Europe could also benefit from closer cooperation.
It’s a remarkable development: India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi is officially received by US President Joe Biden in the White House. Enthusiastic Modi supporters have been cheering him on the streets even before his visit.
Around 20 years ago, however, the Hindu nationalist politician was not even allowed to set foot in the USA. The regional politician at the time was refused entry because of allegations that his party was involved in attacks on Muslims. But that has long since ceased to matter, because the USA needs India as a partner.
“We are constantly deepening and enhancing our partnership with India. India is increasingly becoming a force for good in the world,” said John Kirby, spokesman for the National Security Council. It will also be a strategic partner for decades to come. “India wants to get more involved in the Indo-Pacific.”
“Possible counterbalance” to China
And this commitment would suit the United States just fine. Because the relationship with the other big “player” in the region, China, has recently gotten worse and worse. John Ciorciari, professor of international politics at the University of Michigan, says: “The number one reason is China’s rise. India is recognized on both the right and left in the US as a possible counterbalance to China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.”
He sees the support from both political camps as a big plus. Because that way, better relationships could actually be built in the long term, and that’s what it’s all about. The US would like to make India a little more reliable.
“The US and its allies would like to have India as a friend rather than an enemy in many diplomatic matters,” says Ciorciari. At the United Nations, for example, India does not exactly have a reputation for reliably aligning with American interests. “US officials and allies hope that will change.”
Diplomatic balancing act in the field of tension
When it comes to diplomacy, India likes to do a balancing act between the West, China and especially Russia. The Indian government has not explicitly criticized Russia for the attack on Ukraine. Which is probably also due to the fact that the Indians are dependent on Moscow for arms deliveries.
According to Ciorciari, Russia has shown itself to be a more reliable partner in recent years, both diplomatically and strategically. “Because of the Ukraine war, Russia no longer has the capacity to send weapons to New Delhi,” he says. That is why the US government will try during the state visit to get India away from its great dependence on Russia.
“It’s a win-win situation for Europe”
The economy could provide persuasion assistance. The US is already India’s most important trading partner. But experts say there is more to it than that. And Europe could ultimately benefit from this, says MS Krishnan, Professor of Technical Developments at the University of Michigan: “It’s also a win-win situation for Europe.” Closer cooperation between the two countries will also do international trade good and provide more investment opportunities. “Germany and other European countries will also have the opportunity to expand their partnerships with India,” said Krishnan.
The big question is: How far will India agree to closer cooperation – especially politically.