US Vice President JD Vance Advocates Stronger US-India Partnership For Global Prosperity

US Vice President JD Vance urged India to remove non-tariff barriers, open its markets further, and increase purchases of American energy and military equipment. Speaking on Tuesday, he outlined a vision for stronger ties between the two nations to ensure a prosperous and peaceful 21st century.

During his address, Vance praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a "special person," and emphasised the importance of India and the US working together to tackle global challenges. He stated, "The future of the 21st century will be shaped by the strength of the US-India partnership," adding that successful collaboration could lead to prosperity, while failure could have dire consequences for humanity.

Accompanied by his Indian-origin wife, Usha Chilukuri, and their three children, Vance arrived in Delhi on Monday amidst concerns over the US's tariff policies. He held extensive discussions with Modi, with both leaders acknowledging progress in bilateral trade negotiations.

Vance encouraged India to provide greater access to American goods and services, including defense and energy products. He also highlighted the potential for collaboration in exploring India's natural resources, such as offshore gas reserves and critical minerals, and suggested removing trade barriers to strengthen energy ties.

The vice president expressed optimism about deepening defense cooperation, urging India to purchase more US military equipment, which he described as "best in class." He also welcomed India's recent budget announcement to amend civil nuclear liability laws, which could pave the way for US-designed reactors in India.

Vance stressed the importance of energy security for India's AI ambitions and called for joint efforts to achieve energy dominance. He concluded by emphasising the mutual benefits of a strong US-India partnership, particularly in promoting economic growth and stability across the Indo-Pacific region.

"American fifth generation F-35s (jets) for example would give the Indian Air Force the ability to defend your airspace and protect your people like never before," he said.

Recalling the Modi-Trump meeting in Washington in February, Vance said it laid the foundation for closer bilateral defence collaboration.

From Javelins to Stryker combat vehicles, our nations will co-produce many of the munitions and equipment that we will need to deter foreign aggressors, not because we seek war, but because we seek peace and we believe the best path to peace is through mutual strength.

"It's fitting that India this year is hosting the Quad leaders' summit this fall. Our interests in a free, open, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific are in full alignment. Both of us know that the region must remain safe from any hostile powers that seek to dominate," he said.

Vance and his family arrived in Jaipur last night. They are scheduled to travel to Agra on Wednesday.

(With PTI Inputs)