Union Minister of External Affairs, S Jaishankar, expressed his thoughts on the ever-evolving relationship between India and the United States (US) during a recent community event in Washington D.C. On Sunday, he emphasized the boundless potential of this partnership, comparing it to the Chandrayaan mission and how it could potentially go even beyond.
Jaishankar shared, “I am often asked, where do you think this relationship (India-US) is going…now it’s hard for me today, really, to put a limit on it, to define it, to even voice expectations because in every way this relationship has exceeded expectations, which is why today we don’t even try to define it. We actually keep raising the bar.”
He also spoke about the New Delhi G20 Leaders Declaration, describing it as a success not just for India but for the G20 nations as a whole. Jaishankar emphasized that it was also a testament to the strong partnership between India and the United States. He urged for continued support for this partnership, stating, “Please keep giving this partnership the support it needs, the support it deserves, and the support it expects. And I can promise you that this relationship, like the Chandrayaan, will go to the moon, maybe even beyond.”
During his five-day visit to the United States, Jaishankar had discussions with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other senior members of the US government. He noted that in a changing world, India and the United States have grown closer to each other, seeing each other as highly desirable and comfortable partners. He expressed hope about the prospects of the relationship, highlighting the chemistry and comfort that define it today.
However, Jaishankar’s visit to the US occurred amidst a diplomatic tussle between India and Canada. Canada had alleged that “agents of the Indian government” were linked to the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The situation became more complex when it was revealed that the United States, as part of the Five Eyes alliance, assisted Canada in uncovering evidence related to India’s alleged involvement in the killing.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged the Government of India to cooperate in the investigation. This diplomatic issue adds a layer of complexity to India’s external affairs during Jaishankar’s visit.
S Jaishankar’s reflections on the India-US relationship emphasize its limitless potential and the mutual trust and comfort between the two nations. The Chandrayaan analogy serves as a testament to the optimism surrounding the future of this partnership. However, ongoing diplomatic challenges, such as the India-Canada tussle, highlight the need for diplomatic finesse and cooperation in managing external affairs.