Amidst ongoing trade tensions, India and the United States convened for a "2+2 Intersessional Dialogue" on August 25, 2025, to address strategic cooperation and a range of bilateral issues. The virtual meeting, held against a backdrop of strained trade relations, saw senior officials from both nations engage in discussions covering trade and investment, energy security, defense collaboration, and critical minerals.
The dialogue emphasized the commitment to strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Discussions aimed to advance a new ten-year defense framework and highlighted the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Participants also reaffirmed their dedication to promoting a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Indo-Pacific through the Quad.
The "2+2 Intersessional Dialogue" involved key figures from both countries. India was represented by Nagaraj Naidu Kakanur, Additional Secretary (Americas) in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and Vishwesh Negi, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) in the Defence Ministry. On the US side, Bethany P. Morrison, Senior Bureau Official for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, and Jedidiah P. Royal, Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, co-chaired the dialogue.
Trade and economic ties between India and the US have seen considerable growth, with total trade in goods and services reaching an estimated $212.3 billion in 2024, an 8.3 percent increase from the previous year. However, recent trade policies have introduced complexities. The Trump administration's decision to terminate India's preferential trade status and impose higher tariffs has created friction. India has, in turn, implemented tariffs on certain US products. Some analysts suggest that increased tariffs could negatively impact India's GDP growth. Despite these challenges, both countries are exploring ways to deepen economic cooperation and address trade imbalances.
Defense and security cooperation remains a crucial aspect of the India-US relationship. The dialogue included discussions on advancing defense industrial, science, and technology collaboration, as well as operational coordination, regional cooperation, and information sharing. Both sides expressed eagerness to increase defense cooperation, including signing a new ten-year framework for the India-US Major Defence Partnership. These efforts align with the India-US COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st Century and beyond.
Despite trade-related challenges, the "2+2 Intersessional Dialogue" underscores the commitment of both India and the US to maintain a strong strategic partnership. The discussions covered a wide array of topics, from trade and energy to defense and regional security, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the relationship. As both nations navigate complex global dynamics and seek to strengthen their partnership, continued dialogue and collaboration will be essential.
