New Delhi, March 17, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of US National Intelligence, in New Delhi today to discuss key security and defense partnerships between India and the United States. The meeting marked a significant step in strengthening intelligence cooperation, defense collaborations, and regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
During the high-level discussions, both leaders emphasized the importance of closer intelligence-sharing mechanisms to counter emerging global security threats, including terrorism, cyber warfare, and maritime security in the Indian Ocean.
PM Modi highlighted the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, stressing the need for stronger collaboration in counterterrorism and cybersecurity. In response, Gabbard reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to deepening defense and intelligence ties with India.
"The United States sees India as a critical ally in maintaining global peace and security. Our partnership will continue to evolve with deeper intelligence coordination and joint defense efforts," Gabbard said.
In a symbolic exchange, PM Modi presented Gabbard with Gangajal (holy water from the Ganges), while Gabbard gifted Modi a set of Tulsi beads, signifying cultural and diplomatic goodwill between the two nations.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh to discuss Indo-US defense technology transfers and military cooperation.
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to strengthen bilateral intelligence-sharing efforts.
The discussions are expected to pave the way for deeper Indo-US security collaborations, particularly in defense production, advanced surveillance systems, and artificial intelligence-driven military applications.
The meeting comes amid growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific, with both nations keen to counterbalance China's influence in the region. Experts believe that joint defense exercises, arms trade, and intelligence-sharing agreements between India and the US will continue to expand.
As the world’s two largest democracies work towards stronger geopolitical cooperation, today’s meeting signals a step forward in an enhanced security alliance between India and the United States.