Washington:
In a significant development in the evolving India-US relationship, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the newly confirmed US Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, in Washington DC. This meeting marked a crucial step in enhancing intelligence cooperation between the two nations, particularly in areas of counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and emerging threats.
Gabbard, a former Democratic Congresswoman from Hawaii, was sworn in as the Director of National Intelligence on Wednesday, following a Senate confirmation vote of 52-48. Despite facing bipartisan skepticism over her suitability for the role, Gabbard has now assumed the critical position of coordinating the work of 18 different US intelligence agencies.
Prime Minister Modi and Gabbard held a productive meeting on Wednesday, where they discussed various aspects of the India-US friendship and the importance of strengthened intelligence cooperation. PM Modi congratulated Gabbard on her confirmation, acknowledging her long-standing support for India-US relations.
The discussions centered around enhancing bilateral intelligence cooperation, with a specific focus on counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and addressing emerging threats. This cooperation is pivotal in the current global security landscape and underscores the deepening strategic partnership between India and the US.
Gabbard, who was administered the oath of office by Attorney General Pam Bondi in the Oval Office, has vowed to refocus the US intelligence community and address the politicization of intelligence agencies. President Trump praised Gabbard for her courage and patriotism, highlighting her three deployments in the Army National Guard.
Gabbard’s confirmation followed two months of deliberations in the Senate, where her qualifications and past statements were scrutinized. Despite the controversy, her appointment signifies a new chapter in US intelligence leadership.
PM Modi’s meeting with Gabbard was part of his visit to the US, which began after he co-chaired the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. The Indian Prime Minister is set to hold bilateral discussions with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday, further solidifying the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
The meeting between PM Modi and Gabbard also included exchanges on regional and global developments, reaffirming their commitment to a secure, stable, and rules-based international order. This interaction underscores the growing importance of intelligence sharing and cooperation in the bilateral relationship between India and the US.
