India expresses disappointment over the insufficient US focus on terrorism originating from Pakistan, urging Washington to respect its stance on Kashmir and avoid third-party intervention. A recent policy paper by the Center for a New American Security highlights ongoing strategic mistrust between the two nations, despite cooperation in various sectors. The report, titled ‘Repairing the Breach: Getting US-India Ties Back on Track’, emphasizes the need for sustained efforts to address tensions that arose in 2025.
The document, authored by Lisa Curtis, Keerthi Martyn, and Sitara Gupta, points out that the relationship faced challenges in 2025 due to disagreements over a ceasefire between India and Pakistan and US tariffs on Indian exports. While a trade deal framework in February 2026 presents an opportunity for relationship mending, rebuilding trust will require continuous commitment. Economic, defense, and technology collaborations have largely remained intact, but differences regarding Pakistan and terrorism persist as core issues.
India’s concerns about US attention towards Pakistan-based terrorism, despite recent terrorist group designations, are noted in the report. Additionally, India’s firm opposition to external involvement in the Kashmir matter is highlighted, cautioning against any mediation that could harm trust further. The report suggests that Washington should avoid discussions on mediating the India-Pakistan Kashmir dispute and concentrate on shared interests for relationship improvement.
Defense cooperation between India and the US has seen positive developments, with a renewed 10-year agreement covering intelligence sharing, maritime security, and defense technology collaboration. Economic engagement has also shown signs of recovery through a recent trade deal that reduces tariffs and expands trade commitments in key sectors. Priority areas for enhanced cooperation include energy, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, and advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and semiconductors.
The report underscores India’s potential as a partner in building resilient supply chains, particularly in nuclear energy and critical minerals. It acknowledges US investments in India’s digital infrastructure as strengthening long-term technological ties. However, the report warns that political mistrust must be addressed to safeguard these gains and emphasizes the need for increased counterterrorism cooperation to combat terror financing and enhance global coordination.
In conclusion, the paper emphasizes India’s crucial role in shaping the Indo-Pacific region and highlights the significance of US-India ties in determining regional power dynamics. It stresses that the quality of this partnership will influence the regional balance of power, either maintaining equilibrium or potentially allowing China to dominate.
