JD Vance warns of ‘dark times’ without strong US-India ties | World News
US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday said the United States is keen to strengthen ties with India selling more energy and defence products, while praising Prime Miner Narendra Modi and highlighting the progress made in trade talks.
Speaking in Jaipur during a four-day personal visit with his Indian-origin wife and their children, Vance said, “If India and the United States work together successfully, we’re going to see a 21st century that is prosperous and peaceful. But I also believe that if we fail to work together successfully, the 21st century could be a very dark time for all of humanity,” Reuters reported.
Vance noted that India was becoming an attractive manufacturing hub, especially as the US imposes higher tariffs on Chinese goods. He said the shift in global trade due to policies under President Donald Trump would benefit India significantly. “The rebalancing of global trade is going to produce great benefits for the people of India,” he told the audience.
Story continues below this ad
In a speech to students, officials and traders, Vance stressed the need for greater cooperation, especially in the military and energy sectors. He said it made sense for India to buy more US defence equipment, including advanced fighter jets like Lockheed Martin’s F-35s. “We want to collaborate more. We want to work together more, and we want your nation to buy more of our military equipment,” he said.
He also expressed interest in helping India develop its own energy sources, including offshore natural gas and critical minerals, and pointed to nuclear energy as an area for joint focus.
On trade, Vance confirmed that the US and India had agreed on the terms of reference for negotiations. “It sets a roadmap toward a final deal between our nations,” he said.
India is hoping to finalise the first phase of a trade agreement before the end of a 90-day pause on tariffs imposed under the Trump adminration. Finance Miner Nirmala Sitharaman earlier said India hoped to “positively conclude” the initial deal autumn.Story continues below this ad
Despite often being critical of foreign leaders, Vance had warm words for Modi, calling him a “special person.” He said Modi had a strong connection with the Indian public and joked that his popularity made him “jealous.”
“In the past, Washington approached Prime Miner Modi with an attitude of prejudice or even one of condescension,” Vance said. “But as I told Prime Miner Modi last night, he’s got approval ratings that would make me jealous.”
He also called Modi a “tough negotiator” who “drives a hard bargain,” which drew laughter from the audience in Jaipur. Vance also shared a personal anecdote, recalling how Modi made time to see his family during a trip to France in February – even on his son’s birthday.
© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd
Expand
