Canberra: In a recent press briefing, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar expressed confidence that the relationship between India and the United States will continue to flourish, no matter the outcome of the ongoing US presidential election. This statement comes as millions of Americans head to the polls to elect the 47th President of the United States.* During a joint press conference with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Jaishankar highlighted the steady progress India has made in its ties with the US over the last five presidencies. He emphasized that this progress would persist, stating, “We are very confident that whatever the verdict, our relationship with the United States will only grow.”
The Quad, or Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, which includes the US, India, Australia, and Japan, was also a focal point of the discussion. Jaishankar noted that the initiative was revived under former President Trump in 2017 and has since evolved into a significant platform for discussing regional security and cooperation. He pointed out that the Quad met during the pandemic when international meetings were limited, showcasing its importance in current geopolitical dynamics. Jaishankar further stressed the role of the Quad in advocating for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, despite China’s assertions that the grouping aims to contain its rise. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to the Quad, with Wong underscoring its strategic importance regardless of the electoral outcome in the US.
As the election unfolds, the Democratic nominee and Vice President Kamala Harris, alongside Republican leader and former President Donald Trump, remain closely matched in various polls. The outcome will undoubtedly shape not only American politics but also international relations, especially in the context of the Indo-Pacific strategy. Wong echoed Jaishankar’s sentiments, stating the Quad represents countries with shared interests and values, emphasizing its continued significance in fostering strategic discussions among its member nations. As the world watches closely, both India and Australia maintain a hopeful outlook for their partnership with the United States, regardless of who emerges victorious from the election.
