'Don't Let International Crisis Overshadow Indo-U.S. Ties'

WASHINGTON: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's U.S. visit, a conservative American think tank has called on the Obama Administration to not let the international crisis such as in Iraq and Syria overshadow the U.S.-India ties.

"The stage is set for a successful Modi visit to Washington, but the White House must guard against allowing the myriad international crises happening around the globe to overshadow the visit and weaken Indo-U.S. bilateral ties," Lisa Curtis of the Heritage Foundation said.

"Engaging with a strategically like-minded partner such as India takes on greater importance as the U.S. grapples with multiple global challenges. U.S., India cooperation is particularly important when it comes to countering international terrorism and maintaining a stable balance of power in the Asia Pacific," said the top U.S. expert on South Asia.

During Modi's visit, the U.S. should expand economic and business ties so long as the Indian Prime Minister remains committed to pro-liberalisation agenda, and emphasise on defence cooperation, building on steps announced by Secretary of Defence Chuck Hagel during his India visit in August, said Curtis.

"It is important that both sides continue to demonstrate understanding of the strategic context in which each is operating. While BJP leaders may calculate that it is in India's interest to draw closer to the U.S., they also will point out that India shares a border with China and thus must be cognizant of Chinese perceptions of India's foreign policy," she said.

Also Read:
Modi-Obama Summit Can Take Ties To Next Level: U.S. Experts