Strength of Indo-US Relations Unaffected by Presidential Changes

Aparna Pande of the Hudson Institute asserts that the Indo-US relationship remains robust regardless of the elected US president, whether Democrat or Republican. The Indo-Pacific Strategy and Quad are key elements, while occasional trade disputes may arise. Both nations must watch developments in Bangladesh, where China's influence is growing.

Aparna Pande, a research fellow at the prominent Hudson Institute, has stated that the strength of the Indo-US relationship will remain constant irrespective of who occupies the White House, whether it be a Democrat or a Republican. Pande confidently claimed that this bond, established over the last three decades, is resilient in economic, commercial, defense, and strategic sectors.

Historically, every American president since Bill Clinton has visited India, underscoring its importance in US national security strategies, which consistently highlight India as a crucial partner, especially in countering China's rise. The Biden administration's Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Quad are signatures of this enduring alliance, initiated under the Trump administration.

While the Biden administration introduced the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (ICET) that strengthens defense and technology partnerships, potential Harris administration policies may focus similarly. However, under a Trump administration, trade may become frictional. The situation in Bangladesh, influenced by China's presence, poses concerns for both American and Indian interests.

(With inputs from agencies.)