Tulsi Gabbard highlighted that Trump’s ‘America first’ strategy is not isolationist, aiming to strengthen the India-US partnership. She focused on collaboration within the Quad to address Indo-Pacific challenges, emphasizing shared values and ongoing engagement. Gabbard also underscored the importance of economic ties and security cooperation while respecting her cultural heritage.
Tulsi Gabbard, the United States Director of National Intelligence, emphasized that President Donald Trump’s ‘America first’ policy is not synonymous with isolationism. As Gabbard addressed attendees at the Raisina Dialogue, she asserted that the India-US partnership will continue to expand, with cooperative efforts under the Quad framework addressing challenges in the Indo-Pacific and enhancing security concerns.
Gabbard, who became the first Hindu American to lead the US intelligence community, visited New Delhi for an international security conference. She noted that Trump’s ‘America first’ philosophy aligns with India’s ‘India first’ approach under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, advocating for a strengthened partnership based on shared values of peace, freedom, and prosperity.
Emphasizing the critical role of the US and India in regional security and economic development, Gabbard characterized the Indo-Pacific as the geopolitical center of gravity for the 21st century. She urged a collaborative approach to tackle shared challenges, asserting that national leaders must unite to achieve common objectives.
Gabbard remarked on Modi’s recent visit to Washington as a sign of the enduring friendship between the leaders, signifying their commitment to addressing the needs of their respective nations. She highlighted ongoing engagements with Quad partners and her participation in international forums, such as the Munich Security Conference.
During her discussions with Indian officials, Gabbard noted the importance of addressing specific security concerns, including issues involving Khalistani separatists and the scope for enhancing intelligence-sharing between nations. Furthermore, she alluded to the potential for expanded economic partnerships, mentioning the COMPACT initiative focusing on military and technological collaboration.
Gabbard integrated elements of her Hindu heritage throughout her address, commencing with a respectful greeting of ‘aloha and namaste’ to emphasize interconnectedness among all individuals, regardless of backgrounds. She concluded her speech with a heartfelt ‘Aloha, Jai Shri Krishna’ after visiting holy sites in New Delhi, expressing her cultural respect further.
In conclusion, Tulsi Gabbard reaffirmed that Trump’s ‘America first’ policy does not equate to isolationism, but rather aims at reinforcing the US-India partnership. Through collaboration on security and economic matters, both nations are poised to enhance cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Gabbard’s visit and statements reflect a commitment to addressing mutual interests, strengthening ties, and focusing on shared challenges and opportunities in this vital region.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
