In a significant diplomatic move, Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor to President Joe Biden, visited India on January 8, 2025, to fortify key aspects of the U.S.-India partnership before the anticipated transition to a new administration led by Donald Trump. The visit underscores the urgency to “foolproof” elements of this strategic alliance, particularly in light of the upcoming change in U.S. leadership.
Sullivan announced that longstanding regulations hampering the implementation of the 2008 civil nuclear agreement between the U.S. and India would soon be lifted, marking a pivotal step in enhancing bilateral cooperation. This agreement has been viewed as a cornerstone for U.S.-India relations, especially with bipartisan support in Washington, given India’s strategic role in countering China’s influence.
The focus of Sullivan’s discussions in New Delhi was largely on the U.S.-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), which has facilitated collaborations in defense, space, and artificial intelligence. The initiative aims to ensure its resilience against potential policy shifts from the incoming Trump administration, which has historically been ambivalent about such partnerships, especially with regards to export controls and tariffs.
However, the visit also highlighted potential frictions. The U.S. has been keen to address human rights issues, particularly in light of India’s involvement in alleged assassination plots abroad. These sensitive topics likely featured prominently in Sullivan’s engagements, including his discussions with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
Despite these concerns, the transition to Trump’s second term is expected to be relatively smooth for U.S.-India relations, thanks to the groundwork laid by both Sullivan and Jaishankar. Sullivan’s interactions with Rep. Mike Waltz, Trump’s choice for National Security Advisor, suggest efforts to safeguard ongoing initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.
This last-minute diplomatic effort by the Biden administration reflects a strategy to secure the gains made in U.S.-India relations, ensuring they withstand the policy shifts that might come with the new administration. The visit signals not just the continuity of strategic interests but also the complexities of maintaining a robust partnership amidst changing political landscapes.
