Navigating the Fragile Dynamics of India-US Relations Post Modi’s Washington Visit
The article discusses Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington, presenting two perspectives on U.S.-India relations—one optimistic about Modi’s diplomatic maneuvering and the other cautioning against potential instability under President Trump. International politics expert Rajesh Rajagopalan offers insights into the implications of the visit and the current state of bilateral relations amid geopolitical tensions.
There are two prevailing perspectives regarding Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Washington for discussions with US President Donald Trump. The first perspective, endorsed by the Indian government and its allies, claims that Modi adeptly navigated the meeting, advocating for Indian interests while also securing notable early victories that could benefit India in the future. In contrast, the second narrative presents a more cautious view, suggesting that the current US-India relationship is fragile and could be destabilized by the whims of an unpredictable President at a critical juncture for India.
To analyze the state of US-India relations following PM Modi’s visit, Rajesh Rajagopalan, an expert in international politics from Jawaharlal Nehru University, appeared on the Grand Tamasha podcast. Hosted by Milan Vaishnav and produced by HT and the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, the discussion encompassed a range of topics, including Joe Biden’s foreign policy impact, India’s requests for technology transfers, and Rajagopalan’s observations on the stagnation in bilateral relations. Additionally, the conversation touched upon India’s perspective on Elon Musk and the evolving landscape of US-China relations.
Rajagopalan articulated the view that the global picture under President Trump appears more perilous than when he assumed office four years prior. Despite the Biden administration’s pivot toward the Indo-Pacific, he asserted that its policies have, in many instances, exacerbated existing tensions. “There had been a number of things that had happened since Trump left that has made the world lot more dangerous and lot more unfavourable to the United States and its partners and allies,” stated Rajagopalan.
He criticized the Biden administration for contributing to delays in providing support to Ukraine, which he believes has resulted in an ongoing stalemate. According to Rajagopalan, this prolonged conflict diverts vital attention from the Indo-Pacific region. He observed that prior to the Modi-Trump meeting, signs indicated a positive disposition from the Trump administration toward India, fostering confidence within the Modi government based on its management of previous bilateral relations during Trump’s first term.
Rajagopalan commented, “The earlier confidence had to do with the fact that there were guardrails in the last administration – Trump was trying to be respectable… and [there were] regular conservative Washington insiders.” He acknowledged the adaptability of Indian diplomats during Trump’s initial tenure. However, following Modi’s recent visit, Rajagopalan detected increasing unease within the Indian government concerning ongoing tariff disputes and the significant trade imbalance, which he estimates to be around $40-50 billion.
Looking ahead, Rajagopalan asserted, “The biggest question… is not even the state of US-India relations, it is the uncertainty about the US itself.” Although India holds considerable advantages as a growing global power, he acknowledged that its position feels more precarious today compared to earlier decades, such as the 1950s or 1990s.
In summary, Indian Prime Minister Modi’s recent visit to the United States has elicited two contrasting narratives regarding US-India relations. While one perspective suggests a successful engagement on behalf of Indian interests, the opposing view warns of potential instability due to shifts in the U.S. political landscape. Rajesh Rajagopalan’s insights highlight the complexities and uncertainties surrounding future diplomatic endeavors, particularly in light of current geopolitical challenges.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
