Washington eagerly awaits the arrival of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, symbolizing a bipartisan effort to move beyond the differences in the U.S.-India relationship and shift focus to their common concern: China.
Modi’s visit comes amidst efforts to establish defense and technology deals between the two countries. However, there has also been criticism from lawmakers and human rights groups, who believe that Modi and his political party are responsible for violence against India’s Muslim minority population.
Activists and groups critical of Modi’s administration’s suppression of dissidents in India have raised concerns about his invitation to address a joint session of Congress. Representative Rashida Tlaib has announced that she will boycott the speech, and Representative Ilhan Omar will hold a press conference with human rights groups following the speech.
The Biden administration sees the visit as an important step in strengthening U.S.-India ties. Critics worry that the White House may be willing to overlook human rights concerns in exchange for advancing economic and military relations.
Kurt Campbell, the National Security Council coordinator for the Indo-Pacific, expressed his hope that the visit will solidify the U.S.-India relationship as the most important bilateral relationship for the United States on the global stage. He emphasized the President’s focus on allowing the U.S.’s own model for dealing with challenges to serve as an example for other countries.
India, known for its democracy and innovative capabilities, is viewed by the Biden administration as a priority business market and an alternative to China.
Although the U.S. and India have different priorities when it comes to China, with New Delhi primarily concerned about Beijing’s military buildup on its border, U.S. lawmakers consider India a strong partner.
The potential economic and security deals resulting from Modi’s visit are being closely monitored. Atul Keshap, President of the United States-India Business Council, highlights the importance of deal flow for strengthening the bilateral relationship.
One significant agreement includes General Electric partnering with Indian defense manufacturing to produce next-generation fighter jet engines, a deal that requires the U.S. to share sensitive military technology.
The U.S. has been engaging India in critical security partnerships to counter China, such as the Quad grouping and the I2U2 alliance. However, concerns have been raised that the President is disregarding his promise to prioritize human rights in his foreign policy.
Senator Chris Van Hollen and Representative Pramila Jayapal, along with over 70 colleagues, have sent a letter to President Biden urging him to address human rights and democratic values during his discussions with Modi.
Some groups have criticized the White House for welcoming Modi despite concerns of press freedoms and suppression of dissent in India. They argue that the Biden administration is whitewashing Modi’s record.
Rasheed Ahmed, the executive director of the Indian American Muslim Council, points out that the U.S. administration is aware of Modi’s actions and history. He believes that military and economic ties should not give the Indian prime minister a free pass to evade accountability.
Stability and democracy are essential for India to be an effective strategic partner and a counterbalance to China, according to Ahmed.
The close ties between New Delhi and Moscow, including defense cooperation, have raised concerns within the Biden administration. However, India has maintained its stance of nonalignment and neutrality, even during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin’s attendance at the G20 summit in India could further highlight the tension between India’s relationship with Moscow and its alignment with the U.S.
Senator John Cornyn hopes to reduce India’s reliance on weapons from Russia and emphasizes the need for closer ties between the U.S. and India.
In conclusion, Washington anticipates Modi’s visit as an opportunity to strengthen U.S.-India ties amidst concerns about human rights and geopolitical considerations related to China and Russia.
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