Biden Lauds PM Modi’s Ukraine Visit, Backs India’s Permanent UNSC Membership: Key Takeaways from Bilateral Meeting

New Delhi: US President Joe Biden praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his historic visit to Ukraine and his peace message amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

During their meeting in Wilmington, North Carolina, PM Modi appreciated Biden’s efforts in strengthening the India-US partnership. He also reflected on how recent high-level visits, including the US President’s trip to India for the G20 summit, have added momentum to their bilateral relations.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted that both leaders discussed ways to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. They emphasised the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and the US, built on shared democratic values and strong people-to-people connections.

India’s Expanding Global Role

Biden commended India’s leadership, particularly in the G20 and its contributions to the Global South. He also praised Modi’s role in strengthening the Quad, ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. The US President hailed Modi’s peace-driven message during his visit to Ukraine, marking a significant step for India’s global engagement. Biden also expressed support for India’s inclusion as a permanent member of a reformed UN Security Council.

Technology, Space and Semiconductors

Both leaders celebrated the progress made under the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), with particular focus on space, semiconductors, and telecommunications. The leaders reaffirmed commitments to enhance cooperation in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and quantum computing.

They welcomed the establishment of a semiconductor fabrication plant, which will focus on advanced telecommunications and green energy applications. Additionally, Modi and Biden endorsed future NASA-ISRO collaborations, including a joint mission to the International Space Station in 2025.

Defence Ties Gain Momentum

The US welcomed India’s procurement of 31 MQ-9B drones, which will boost India’s surveillance and defence capabilities. The leaders also recognised ongoing collaborations in defence production, including efforts to co-produce jet engines and munitions.

Biden praised India’s recent decision to standardise the Goods and Services Tax (GST) for aircraft maintenance, paving the way for a robust MRO ecosystem in India. The establishment of a new MRO facility for C-130J Super Hercules aircraft was hailed as a key step in India-US defence cooperation.

Clean Energy Partnership

PM Modi and Biden reiterated their commitment to advancing clean energy collaboration. The leaders announced initiatives to unlock $1 billion in financing for renewable energy, energy storage, and green technology projects. The US also extended substantial financial support to India’s clean energy manufacturing, including loans to Tata Power Solar and First Solar.

The leaders also welcomed the development of a National Center for Hydrogen Safety in India and reinforced their shared goal to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy technologies.

Health and Development Initiatives

A new US-India Drug Policy Framework was launched to combat illicit drug production and trafficking. The two leaders celebrated the success of the first US-India Cancer Dialogue, aimed at accelerating research and development in cancer treatment. They also signed an MoU to boost cooperation between small and medium enterprises in both countries, enhancing their participation in global markets.

Agriculture cooperation was another key focus, with both countries aiming to strengthen ties in climate-smart agriculture and productivity growth. This enhanced cooperation will also involve the private sector in fostering innovation and bilateral trade in the agricultural sector.