Rajnath Singh Highlights Indo-US Partnership for Mutual Benefit

New Delhi: The Indian Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, addressed a conference on ‘Strengthening Indo-US Relationship in Amrit Kaal – Aatmanirbhar Bharat,’ emphasizing the potential for collaboration between India and the United States. The conference was organised by Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) in New Delhi on January 30, 2024.

Rajnath Singh highlighted the opportunity for the United States to contribute to India’s goal of becoming a developed country by 2047. He emphasized the mutually beneficial nature of the Indo-US relationship, stating that American investments could yield high returns due to India’s growing economy, skilled workforce, and vast domestic market.

Describing India and the US as natural partners, Singh stressed the need for both countries to advance together economically and strategically. He noted the alignment in their support for a free, open, and rules-based international order. The Defence Minister acknowledged ongoing collaborations between India and the US in various fields, including defence technology and space. He highlighted the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative and the joint ISRO-NASA initiative ‘NISAR’ as examples of strengthened partnerships.

Singh clarified that India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative aims for collaboration rather than isolation. He emphasized the commitment to working with friendly countries and promoting companionship based on ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The World is One Family). He outlined the economic reforms undertaken by the Indian government to attract foreign investment, reform FDI and labour laws, and develop next-generation infrastructure projects in sectors like roads, railways, waterways, and electricity. He stressed the deep connection between business, commerce, security, and defence. He asserted that the government gives equal emphasis to defence and security, along with business and commerce, considering them interconnected in the contemporary era.

The conference aimed to bolster economic and diplomatic ties between India and the US. It provided a platform for experts and business leaders from both countries to discuss opportunities for partnership and growth in various sectors. Rajnath Singh’s address emphasized the shared values and interests between India and the US, positioning the relationship as a guarantee for long-term sustainability and robustness.