Senior policymakers and analysts discussed India’s foreign policy at a conference in Washington, emphasizing strategic autonomy, economic expansion, and its relationship with the United States. Former US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster highlighted India’s shift from Cold War non-alignment to a more adaptable approach, focusing on strategic autonomy and a multipolar world.
Juster noted India’s closer ties with the US due to tensions with China but emphasized that India avoids complete alignment with the US. He also pointed out the significant role of economic growth in shaping India’s foreign policy, with its GDP ranking fourth globally and expected to become the third-largest economy soon.
Vijay Chauthaiwale, from the Bharatiya Janata Party, highlighted India’s internal progress, portraying it as a land of opportunities. He mentioned the country’s digital expansion, with over 1 billion internet users contributing to the digital economy. Juster mentioned India’s pursuit of multi-alignment while strengthening cooperation with the US in defense, technology, and energy.
The conference also addressed trade tensions, with former Indian Member of Parliament Priyanka Chaturvedi criticizing certain aspects of the negotiations. Chaturvedi questioned trade targets and raised concerns about tariffs and sectors like agriculture and dairy. Chauthaiwale discussed the diversity among Indian-Americans and their varied perspectives on US policies.
The event brought together officials and experts to analyze India’s global role amid an “inflection point” in US-India relations. Juster highlighted the significance of India’s rise globally, emphasizing the importance of the US being a positive contributor to this story. The US-India partnership has expanded over the years, particularly in defense, trade, and technology, despite occasional tensions.
