India is the third stop of Mr. Austin’s first overseas visit to the three countries, and the visit is seen as a strong commitment of the Joe Biden administration to its close allies and partners in the region.
Friday on a three-day visit aimed at further boosting bilateral defense and security relations in view of China’s growing military assertiveness in the region, including the Indo-Pacific.
India is the third stop of Mr. Austin’s first overseas visit to the three countries, and the visit is seen as a strong commitment of the Joe Biden administration to its close allies and partners in the region.
Ways to further intensify Indo-US strategic relations, promote cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, China’s aggressive behavior in East Ladakh, challenges posed by terrorism and the Afghan peace process are expected to be familiar with the dialogue between the two sides , Those who are familiar with said the preparation and agenda of the trip.
He said India’s plans to buy about 30 multi-mission armed Predator drones from the US for the three services at an estimated cost of more than $ 3 billion are also expected to be included in the talks.
Also Read: Editorial | India and Biden: On Trump’s Post-Relationship
The medium-altitude endurance (MALE) Predator-B drones built by US Defense Chief General Atomics are capable of remaining for about 35 hours and can target targets on land and at sea, he said.
Secretary Austin is expected to meet National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Friday evening, while he will hold extensive talks with Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday.
He is also expected to meet Foreign Minister S Jaishankar.
His visit to India after the top leadership of the four-member quad – India, US, Japan and Australia vowed to expand their cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
The US Secretary of Defense visited Japan and South Korea before reaching India.
.
Add Comment