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The recent Modi-Trump summit, characterized by strong personal chemistry between the two leaders, resulted in a significant expansion of US-India relations across multiple sectors. The meeting, arranged with minimal prior negotiation, yielded substantial outcomes, exceeding expectations in both optics and tangible agreements. The announcements following the White House meeting showcased a commitment to elevate bilateral ties to unprecedented levels. The launch of COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology for the 21st Century) signals a comprehensive strategic partnership encompassing defense, investment, trade, energy, and innovation. The ambitious goals set forth, particularly the "Mission 500" aiming for a four-fold increase in bilateral trade to $500 billion within five years, demonstrate a shared vision for economic growth. Considering the current trade volume of $129 billion, achieving this target within five years, though ambitious, appears feasible given the accelerated cooperation anticipated in energy (both conventional and nuclear) and defense.
Further strengthening this burgeoning partnership is the launch of TRUST (Transforming the Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology), focused on enhancing collaboration in critical and emerging technologies. The creation of a joint India-US Artificial Intelligence Roadmap, scheduled for completion by the end of 2024, underscores the commitment to technological advancement and shared innovation. The careful selection of acronyms, COMPACT and TRUST, reflects a deliberate attempt to convey the strength and reliability of this partnership. Beyond these central initiatives, numerous other announcements highlight progress in defense collaboration, increased people-to-people engagement, and a significant breakthrough in extradition procedures. President Trump's approval of the extradition of 26/11 convict Tahawwur Rana to India, coupled with his promise to favorably consider similar requests, signifies a new era of cooperation in combating transnational crime. This development raises hopes for the extradition of other individuals involved in high-profile criminal cases in India, like members of the Bishnoi gang.
The summit’s achievements extend beyond bilateral relations. Trump’s recent interactions with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, described by Trump as "highly productive," have also impacted the global landscape. While surprising some of America’s European allies, these calls hold significance for India. Prime Minister Modi's endorsement of Trump's efforts emphasizes India's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict—a position of advocating for peace, while not remaining neutral. This reiterates Modi's message conveyed to Putin last year, highlighting that the current global climate necessitates an end to the war. The potential for a resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict offers dual advantages: global price stability and a realignment of global power dynamics. Such a shift could potentially curb China's burgeoning ambitions and strategically position India amongst key global stakeholders. Furthermore, Trump’s decision to defer to Prime Minister Modi on the evolving situation in Bangladesh underscores the significant influence India holds in the region, allowing India to handle the matter autonomously.
The personal rapport between Modi and Trump played a pivotal role in the success of the summit. Trump's public praise of Modi as a "great leader" and a "much tougher and better negotiator" highlights the strong interpersonal dynamic that underpinned the agreements reached. This chemistry, visible throughout the summit, fostered an environment conducive to achieving ambitious targets. The summit ultimately represents a significant step forward in solidifying US-India relations, leveraging the strong personal relationship between the two leaders to address critical issues and shape the future global landscape. The initiatives launched during the summit reflect a shared commitment to economic growth, technological advancement, security cooperation, and the pursuit of peace and stability in a complex global environment. The focus on practical collaboration and shared interests bodes well for continued growth and cooperation between the two nations in the years to come. The summit leaves a lasting impression not just for its accomplishments, but for its display of effective diplomacy built on a foundation of mutual respect and a shared strategic vision.
Source: Opinion | Modi-Trump Summit: It's The Chemistry, Silly