Washington: In a significant and strategic move, US Republican senator Marco Rubio announced on Thursday the introduction of a crucial bill- the US-India Defense Cooperation Act. This bill, aimed at enhancing the strategic diplomatic, economic, and military relationship with New Delhi, carries immense importance in the global geopolitical landscape, particularly in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Communist China continues to aggressively expand its domain in the Indo-Pacific region, all while it seeks to impede the sovereignty and autonomy of our regional partners. The US must continue its support in countering these malicious tactics. India, along with other nations in the region, is not alone,” Rubio said in a statement announcing his legislation.
The bill, once enacted, would establish a firm Statement of Policy, reaffirming the US’s commitment to aid India in defending its territorial integrity against increasing threats. It would provide the necessary security support to India, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of the US in ensuring India’s security, and would foster collaboration with India on various fronts including defence, civil space, technology, healthcare, and economic ventures.
When enacted as a law, it would grant India a limited exemption from CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions) sanctions for purchases of Russian military hardware. It would also establish a sense in Congress that it is in the interests of peace and stability in India to have the means to deter threats and that certifications of letters of offer to sell defence articles, defence services, design and construction services, and major defence equipment to India should be promptly considered.
Regarding technology transfers, the bill would treat India the same as US allies like Japan, Israel, Korea, and NATO allies. It would also allow the Secretary of State to establish a memorandum of understanding with India to boost military cooperation, expedite excess defence articles to India for two years, and give India the same status as other allies.
Congress is required to receive a report on Pakistan’s use of offensive force against India, including through terrorism and proxy groups. If Pakistan is determined to have sponsored terrorism against India, security assistance will not be granted to Pakistan.
–IANS
