Prime Minister Narendra Modi has commenced on a three-day visit to the United States, starting on
September 21, 2024. His visit includes participating in the fourth Quad Leaders’ Summit in
Wilmington, Delaware, hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden. Other attendees include the leaders of
Australia and Japan, and the summit will focus on regional issues such as maritime security, the
growing influence of China, and collaborative efforts in emerging technologies.
The Quad leaders Summit: reinforcing the Indo-pacific
Agenda
Quad, is a strategic forum comprising four countries, the United States, Japan, India, and Australia.
The Quad is aimed at promoting regional security and economy cooperation in the Indo-pacific
region.
This summit comes at a crucial juncture as the Indo-Pacific region faces increasing security and
economic challenges. Discussions focused on countering China’s growing military assertiveness,
enhancing maritime security, and collaborating on emerging technologies. Modi’s participation
reiterates India’s commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, and the leaders explored
new initiatives, including cooperation in combating climate change and health crises like cancer.
In his pre-departure statement, PM Modi emphasized the importance of the Quad, stating, “The
forum has emerged as a key group of like-minded countries working for peace, progress, and
prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
The goals of the Quad
The Quad is committed to supporting the region’s development, stability, and prosperity to benefit
the people of the Indo-Pacific. The leaders’ ambitious efforts include major initiatives on
infrastructure, maritime security, public-private partnership, climate, health, critical and emerging
technologies, and space.
Bilateral Meetings: Strengthening the India-U.S. Strategic
Partnership
India and United States enjoy a comprehensive global strategic partnership covering almost all aeras
of human endeavor, driven by shared democratic values, convergence of interests on a range issues,
and vibrant people to people contacts.
A major highlight of Modi’s visit is the bilateral meetings with U.S. President Joe Biden. This is the
first time PM Modi has travelled to the U.S. since his third consecutive election victory earlier this
year. The talks are expected to focus on expanding defense cooperation, enhancing economic ties, and tackling global issues such as climate change and terrorism.
The India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership has grown substantially in recent years,
and both leaders are expected to review ongoing defense projects, discuss supply chain resilience,
and explore further collaboration in critical areas such as 5G, artificial intelligence, and quantum
computing.
Addressing the UN General Assembly: India’s Global Vision
On September 22, PM Modi will address the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
The theme of this year’s session is “Summit of the Future,” focusing on global challenges such as
sustainable development, climate action, and global security. Modi is expected to highlight India’s
contributions to peacekeeping, development initiatives, and its leadership in promoting renewable
energy through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance.
This address will also give Modi a platform to showcase India’s growing influence in global decision
making bodies and maintain its commitment to multilateralism. The speech is expected to touch
upon India’s G20 Presidency and the need for reforming global institutions to better reflect the
voices of the Global South.
Engagement with U.S. Business Leaders: Boosting Economic
Cooperation
Apart from geopolitical discussions, PM Modi’s visit includes a roundtable with CEOs of leading
American technology companies. India has positioned itself as a hub for tech innovation, and this
meeting aims to attract investments and explore new partnerships in sectors like artificial
intelligence, cybersecurity, and space exploration. Notable companies involved in this discussion
include Microsoft, Google, and Tesla.
India’s rapidly expanding digital economy has made it an attractive destination for U.S. tech giants,
and these discussions are expected to pave the way for more investments and joint ventures. Modi’s
government has been keen on encouraging foreign direct investment, and this meeting aligns with
India’s vision of becoming a global digital leader.
Strengthening Strategic Ties
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the U.S. marks another step in strengthening India’s strategic
alliances, particularly with the Quad nations. The trip is set to enhance bilateral ties with the U.S.,
reinforce India’s role in the Indo-Pacific, and foster greater economic cooperation. As India continues
to rise as a global power, its partnerships with like-minded countries will play a crucial role in shaping
a more secure, prosperous, and sustainable world.
