Washington, D.C.:
A former US Commerce Secretary has issued a strong warning that the United States risks isolating itself internationally by not giving India the strategic partnership it deserves. In a recent policy discussion, the former official said that the current approach of treating India as a peripheral ally rather than a central global partner is a “big mistake” that could undermine America’s influence in Asia and the Indo-Pacific region.
The former Secretary, who served under a previous administration, criticized Washington’s inconsistent policy toward India, arguing that the US cannot afford to adopt an “America Alone” approach when facing complex global challenges. “India is not just another developing nation — it is a major democratic power and a vital partner for stability in the region,” the official said.
According to the former Commerce Secretary, India’s economic rise, technological innovation, and growing defense capabilities make it a crucial player in shaping the 21st-century world order. Ignoring or undervaluing this relationship, he warned, could allow other powers — particularly China and Russia — to strengthen their strategic ties with India at America’s expense.
The remarks come at a time when US–India relations are undergoing both progress and tension. While bilateral cooperation has grown in areas such as defense manufacturing, clean energy, and semiconductors, friction remains over trade barriers, visa policies, and differing diplomatic positions on global conflicts.
“Instead of questioning India’s neutrality or trade practices, Washington should double down on trust and collaboration,” the former Secretary added. “We should be working with India, not around it.”
He also pointed out that India’s role in global supply chains and its position as a hub for digital and manufacturing innovation make it an indispensable partner for the United States in countering China’s dominance. Many US companies, he noted, are already shifting manufacturing bases from China to India as part of a broader “China+1” strategy.
The comments have reignited debate among US policy experts about how the Biden administration — and possibly future governments — should handle relations with India. Some analysts agree that Washington must move beyond short-term trade concerns and focus on building a long-term strategic alliance grounded in shared democratic values.
Indian experts, meanwhile, have welcomed the acknowledgment, noting that the relationship between the two countries must be based on equality and mutual respect. “India is no longer a passive recipient of US policy; it’s a global leader in its own right,” said a senior foreign policy analyst in New Delhi.
The statement by the former Commerce Secretary reflects a growing view in Washington that the future of global power balance will depend heavily on how the United States manages its relationship with India — a partnership that could shape international politics, economy, and security for decades to come.
