In a noteworthy development, Rear Admiral Thomas M. Henderschedt, the Director for Intelligence (J2) at the US Indo-Pacific Command, held discussions with Lieutenant General Dinesh Singh Rana, Director General of the Defence Intelligence Agency, to deliberate upon shared areas of concern and explore fresh avenues for defense cooperation. According to official sources, this strategic interaction aimed to strengthen the foundation of collaboration between the two nations.

This visit coincided with the presence of a high-profile US congressional delegation in India. Led by Congressmen Ro Khanna and Michael Waltz, both co-chairs of the House India Caucus, the bipartisan Congressional Member Delegation embarked on a diplomatic mission to India. The delegation included Representatives Deborah Ross, KAT Cammack, Shri Thanedar, and Jasmine Crockett, alongside fellow members from the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, Representatives Rich McCormick and Ed Case. Their presence and engagements in New Delhi underscored the significance of fostering diplomatic relationships.

During their visit to India, the US congressional delegation engaged in cultural exchange, notably meeting veteran actors Anupam Kher and Amitabh Bachchan. This interaction highlighted the broader scope of their visit, reaching beyond political matters.

In an illustrative gesture, two members of the US Congressional delegation visited the Mumbai headquarters of the Western Naval Command, a pivotal establishment within the Indian Navy. This action underscored their interest in comprehending India's naval capabilities.

Further augmenting diplomatic dialogue, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged with the US Congressional delegation. During this meeting, the transformation underway in India took center stage in discussions. Both sides exchanged insights, underlining their shared commitment to enhancing the bilateral partnership between India and the United States.

This series of interactions stands as a testament to the multi-dimensional ties between the two nations, which encompass defense cooperation, diplomatic dialogue, cultural exchange, and the shared pursuit of fostering stronger ties.

Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, “A good interaction with the US Congressional delegation today. Glad they could join as we celebrated #IndependenceDay. Discussed the transformation underway in India, especially its outcomes of better governance. Shared our aspirations and Amritkaal Also exchanged views on our advancing bilateral partnership. Shared perspective on the global situation and our collaboration on multilateral, regional and global issues.”  

In a subsequent development, the delegation had the opportunity to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the meeting, Prime Minister Modi underscored the significant role of robust bipartisan backing from the US Congress, terming it as "instrumental" in advancing the India-US comprehensive global strategic partnership to new heights.

Also talking to X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, Glad to receive Congressional delegation from the US, including co-chairs of India Caucus in the House of Representatives, Rep.@Rokhanna and Rep@michaelgwaltz. Strong bipartisan support from the US Congress is instrumental in further elevating India-US comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.”

The delegation also held a meeting with Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane.

The principal spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence, A Bharat Bhushan Babu, stated “Defence Secretary Shri@giridharmane, today held a meeting with the US Congressional Delegation in South Block, New Delhi.”

Image source: ANI