Amidst escalating tariff tensions, India and the United States convened a 2+2 Intersessional Dialogue on Monday, August 25, 2025, to address critical aspects of their bilateral relationship. The virtual meeting, a mid-cycle review of the broader 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue, served as the first officially acknowledged communication between the two nations following weeks of strained relations over trade policies.

The dialogue was co-chaired by senior officials from both countries. On the Indian side, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Nagaraj Naidu Kakanur, and Joint Secretary of the Defence Ministry, Vishwesh Negi, led the discussions. The U.S. delegation was represented by Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, Bethany P. Morrison, and Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, Jedidiah P. Royal.

The primary objective of the Intersessional Dialogue was to advance bilateral initiatives, review regional security developments, and exchange perspectives on shared strategic priorities. Discussions encompassed a wide array of topics, including trade and investment, energy security (with an emphasis on strengthening civil-nuclear cooperation), critical minerals exploration, and collaboration in counter-narcotics and counter-terrorism efforts.

A significant focus of the meeting was on bolstering defense cooperation between India and the U.S.. Both sides expressed their intention to finalize a new ten-year Framework for the India-U.S. Major Defense Partnership. This framework aims to enhance collaboration across various defense domains, including defense industrial collaboration, science and technology cooperation, operational coordination, regional engagement, and information-sharing. Participants also agreed to build upon the progress made in these areas under the auspices of the India-U.S. COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st Century and beyond.

The talks occurred against a backdrop of rising trade tensions, triggered by the U.S. administration's decision to impose an additional 25% tariff on Indian goods, effective Wednesday. This measure was reportedly taken in response to India's continued purchase of Russian oil. Despite these trade disputes, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Indo-Pacific region. They emphasized the role of the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, comprising India, the U.S., Japan, and Australia) in achieving this vision.

The Intersessional Dialogue concluded with expressions of appreciation for the productive discussions and a shared eagerness to deepen the bilateral relationship to benefit the citizens of both India and the United States. The dialogue highlights the importance both nations place on maintaining a strong strategic partnership, even amidst disagreements on trade and tariff issues.