New Delhi, April 22, 2025 : In a significant diplomatic and strategic gesture, U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday emphasized the need for a deepened partnership between the United States and India, calling it essential not just for bilateral growth but for global stability.
Speaking during his visit to Jaipur, Rajasthan, Vance stated: “If India and the United States do not work well together, the 21st century is going to be a very dark time for all of humanity. But if we get this right, it’s going to be a time of incredible prosperity and peace.”
Defense & Energy Ties in Focus
Vance highlighted the importance of expanded cooperation in defense, trade, and energy, particularly proposing that India purchase U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets and increase collaboration on offshore gas and nuclear energy development.
Trade Deal Progress
The visit comes amid ongoing India-U.S. trade talks, with both sides aiming to finalize a first-phase agreement by autumn 2025. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who is currently in Washington, confirmed that talks were progressing and that the framework is “nearly finalized.”
“We’ve made a lot of progress. We’re optimistic about concluding the first phase of the trade agreement within the year,” Sitharaman said in an earlier statement.
Praise for Modi’s Leadership
Vance praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his leadership and negotiation skills, noting his high approval ratings.
“It’s clear that Modi is one of the most powerful political figures in the world today, and the fact that we’re negotiating seriously with India reflects how much we value this partnership.”
Personal and Political Visit
Vance’s visit had a personal touch, too — he was accompanied by his Indian-American wife, Usha, and their children. The family visited historical and cultural sites in Jaipur before Vance met officials and addressed the media.
Tensions Over Tariffs and E-commerce
The U.S. continues to press India to open up its $125 billion e-commerce market more fully to American giants like Amazon and Walmart, a point of tension in ongoing negotiations. Reports suggest India is under growing pressure to grant full market access as part of broader tariff talks.
The visit takes place amid a 90-day pause on new U.S. tariffs as both sides attempt to resolve trade imbalances and market access issues.
The Bigger Picture
Vance’s visit is part of a broader U.S. strategy to pivot toward stronger ties with democratic partners in Asia, especially as relations with China remain strained. India, the world’s most populous democracy and fastest-growing major economy, is seen as a crucial counterweight to China in the Indo-Pacific region.
With Agency Inputs
