India's Contribution to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific: US Official

A week before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official state visit to the US, the Biden administration stated that India is essential to sustaining a free and open Indo-Pacific that is integrated, prosperous, secure, and resilient. In light of China's expanding military manoeuvres in the area, the US, India, and a number of other world powers have been discussing the necessity to guarantee a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

"Our relationship with India is one of the most important ones. We closely monitor and collaborate with India on our most important issues. They are essential to ensuring that the Indo-Pacific region is free, open, connected, wealthy, secure, and resilient, said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller on Thursday at his regular press briefing.

While the Indian group is here, Secretary of State Tony Blinken is looking forward to meeting Prime Minister Modi and other delegation members and working to advance all the subjects on which we consult with India, Miller said.

From June 21 to 24, Prime Minister Modi will be in the US at the invitation of President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. On June 22, they will welcome PM Modi at a state banquet. On June 22, the visit will also include a speech before the joint session of Congress.

In response to a query on visa holdups in India, Miller stated that US consular teams have been working extremely hard to process as many visa applications as they can there, including in those visa categories that are crucial to the bilateral relationship.

"This is our government's primary priority. We are putting in a lot of effort since we are aware that there is still work to be done.

Regarding India's human rights concerns, Miller responded that the US works with India on a number of problems and routinely brings up these matters with Indian government officials.

"We've made that very obvious. We speak with them personally, and we speak with the Indian Government discreetly about those," he said.

"I'll also add that, with regard to protests, we support everyone's ability to use their First Amendment freedoms to express themselves. We recently discussed a very active First Amendment right exercise that has been going out outside our building for, oh, a week or two now, and we continue to support Americans' right to do so', Miller added.

In response to a query regarding the incoming American ambassador, Ambassador Garcetti, he said: "I've heard that the new American ambassador, Ambassador Garcetti, is actually a bit of a celebrity in India, as well." "Let me simply reiterate that our relationship with India is one of our most important ones. We are eagerly anticipating the visit the following week. We're all really anticipating the state lunch that will take place at the State Department in addition to the White House reception for Prime Minister Modi, Miller added.

According to a US official, India holds a pivotal position in securing a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Recognizing India's strategic importance, the official highlighted the country's contribution to regional stability, maritime security, and economic growth. India's commitment to upholding the principles of a rules-based international order and its engagement with like-minded nations have been instrumental in ensuring a prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

The official emphasized the importance of deepening US-India cooperation to address shared challenges, such as countering threats posed by authoritarian regimes and promoting a free and open internet. The US sees India as a key partner in strengthening regional security architecture and promoting inclusive economic development.

India's growing role in the Indo-Pacific reflects its expanding diplomatic engagements, defense cooperation, and economic ties with countries in the region. With its vibrant democracy, strong economy, and geographical location, India is seen as a significant actor in shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific.

As the US reaffirms its commitment to the region, recognizing India's contributions and fostering closer collaboration will be essential in safeguarding peace, stability, and prosperity for the Indo-Pacific nations.