2023: A remarkable and historic year for India-US relations

In terms of the US-Indian relationship, 2023 has been a historic year. Two-leader level summits, ground-breaking agreements on defense co-production, a new technological partnership, and coordination on global challenges underscore the growing alignment between both sides. Yet, lingering debates over misaligned strategic expectations and values versus interests as the basis of ties continue to create friction and maybe a test for the relationship as both countries head into elections in 2024. (Photo/ Agencies)

To offer a comprehensive framework, the two national security advisers launched the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) at the beginning of the year. They introduced a whole-of-government approach to the effort as the fulcrum. The bureaucracy was 'laser focused' on execution; the amazing offshoots of iCET are numerous. With China posing an increasing threat to international security, diplomatic speed dating was necessary. (Photo/ Agencies)

In April, the US announced an expansion of the H-1B visa lottery, increasing the number of available visas for Indian professionals by 85%. This was welcomed by India as a positive step towards easing skilled talent mobility. However, Indian students continued to face significant delays in processing times for F-1 student visas, causing concerns about disruption to their education plans. Both governments are working to address this issue through streamlining procedures and increasing manpower. (Photo/ IANS)

Another significant event was the introduction of Advanced Domains Defence Dialogue (AD3) in May, which addresses AI and "space defense" in addition to the land, air, and sea domains. That is to India's advantage. (Photo/ Agencies)

This blossoming partnership was further cemented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's June 2023 visit to the US. Significant actions, like president Joe Biden's state dinner and Prime Minister Modi's joint speech to Congress, highlighted Washington's growing appreciation of India as a key strategic and economic ally. (Photo/ Agencies)

India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS X), which will expand defence industrial cooperation across government, businesses and research institutions, is proving to be a major plank of the 'Innovation Bridge' between the two countries. (Photo/ Agencies)

India, Israel, the United States and United Arab Emirates (UAE) under the I2U2 group in New York have announced a new joint space venture that is aimed at creating a “unique space-based tool" for policymakers, institutions, and entrepreneurs. (Photo/ Agencies)

When seen as a whole, the defense pillar seems to be the strongest. The US is actively working to strengthen Indian capabilities from space to the oceans. The largest feature was the deal to co-produce GE jet engines, something the US has never done with any nation, not even Nato members. Additionally, the two parties are discussing constructing the Stryker armored vehicle together. (Photo/ Agencies)

To address regulatory obstacles and export control difficulties in crucial industries such as semiconductors, space, telecom, quantum computing, AI, defense, and biotechnology, India and the US organized their maiden Strategic Trade Dialogue (IUSSTD). (Photo/ Agencies)

President Biden lauded India’s G20 Presidency for further demonstrating on how the G20 as a forum is delivering important outcomes. Biden reaffirmed his support for a reformed UN Security Council with India as a permanent member, and, in this context, he welcomed once again India’s candidature for the UNSC non-permanent seat in 2028-29. (Photo/ Agencies)

Difficulties, such as the most difficult one involving a US prosecution of an Indian national suspected of being part of an assassination plot, were handled carefully by both parties without resorting to loud public posturing. That demonstrates resilience and maturity. (Photo/ Agencies)

The unfortunate 's' word of scheduling—rather than being a slight or snub—is the reason why US President Joe Biden was unable to attend Republic Day celebrations. To consider it a policy decision was ridiculous. In an effort to refute that notion, US authorities have taken great care to combat sensational headlines in Western media. (Photo/ Agencies)