Central Idea

• The India-U.S. relationship will be crucial in the next six months with engagements set to happen between the two countries on various forums like the G20, Quad, and I2U2.

Divergence and Convergence

• The appointment of Eric Garcetti as the U.S. Ambassador to India signals the potential for greater partnership, but there are also differences to be overcome.

1. The U.S. may want India to change its stance on the Ukraine crisis.
2. India may want a stronger position against China.

• However, the two countries share strong areas of convergence such as

1. The India-U.S. Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology and
2. The Indo-Pacific partnership aimed at promoting security, economic growth, and connectivity in the region.

What is I2U2?

• In July 2022, India, Israel, the United States (US), and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in a hybrid summit announced the establishment of a new minilateral grouping called the I2U2.
• The four countries envision their alliance as an ad-hoc, informal, issue-specific and geoeconomic initiative.

Realignment of U.S. Supply Chains

• Disrupted supply chains: In recent years, there has been growing interest in diversifying supply chains away from China due to geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and concerns about over-reliance on a single country.
• India is emerging as attractive destination: India’s growing consumer market makes it an attractive destination for U.S. businesses looking to expand their customer base.

Ups and Downs in India-U.S. relationship

• The India-U.S. relationship has had its ups and downs over time, with key moments such as the nuclear deal, liberalisation of markets, and the outsourcing of Indian techies for U.S. companies.
• The U.S. has also played an important role in making India an IT superpower.
• The two countries are also partners in combating climate change and aligned on the importance of space technology.

Trust Deficit

• In the past, there has been a trust deficit between India and the U.S., with Indians feeling that the U.S. has not always supported India and has instead supported Pakistan.
• The U.S. has flagged issues related to terrorism, human rights, and democracy in India. However, the two countries can become stronger together by building on their strategic partnership.

Conclusion

• The next six months will be critical for India-U.S. ties, with both countries looking to enhance collaboration and partnership. While there are differences in opinions to be addressed, the two countries also share strong areas of convergence that can be leveraged to strengthen their strategic partnership.

Mains Question

Q. What is I2U2 initiative? Evaluate how does it fit into the broader context of the India- US relationship?

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