India-US Partnership – Strategic Alliance Seen as Key to Balancing China’s Innovation Strength
India-US Partnership – The United States and India together have the potential to create the only innovation ecosystem capable of matching China’s scale, according to US Senator Steve Daines. Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) Leadership Summit in Washington, the Republican lawmaker from Montana emphasized that closer ties between the two democracies are becoming increasingly significant not only for their national interests but also for long-term global stability and economic growth.
Senator Highlights India’s Strategic Importance
During a discussion with FedEx President and CEO Raj Subramaniam, Daines said Washington should strengthen its long-term engagement with India as it reassesses global geopolitical and economic priorities. He argued that while the United States continues to manage a complex relationship with China, building dependable partnerships with trusted nations should remain a central part of its strategy.
According to Daines, cooperation between India and the United States offers a unique opportunity to create an innovation network capable of competing with China’s technological ecosystem. He said the combined talent, research capabilities and entrepreneurial strengths of both countries provide a scale that no other partnership can currently match.
Focus on Trust and Reliable Partnerships
The senator stressed that the United States cannot completely disengage from China, but it should reduce strategic risks by expanding collaboration with reliable partners. He noted that policymakers often discuss the challenges posed by China but spend less time outlining the partnerships required to address those challenges effectively.
Sharing a personal example, Daines explained that he avoids carrying his primary mobile phone during visits to China because of security concerns. However, he said he has no hesitation taking the same device while traveling to India, describing it as a reflection of the trust he places in the bilateral relationship.
Personal Diplomacy Strengthens International Relations
Drawing from his extensive travel across Asia, Daines said face-to-face engagement remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen diplomatic relationships. He believes long-term cooperation is built through direct interaction, mutual respect and confidence between governments and their people.
His remarks came after he received the USISPF Public Service Award, which recognizes individuals who have made notable contributions to strengthening India-US relations. Senator Mark Warner, who was also selected for the honor, could not attend the ceremony.
USISPF Leaders Praise Bipartisan Approach
Introducing Daines before the award presentation, USISPF Chairman John Chambers praised the senator’s ability to build lasting relationships across political lines. Chambers said Daines has consistently worked with leaders from different backgrounds to promote practical solutions that benefit both countries.
He also referred to Daines’ previous visit to New Delhi, saying the senator had developed strong working relationships with senior Indian officials as well as American diplomats, helping deepen confidence between both sides.
Career Experiences Shaped His Global Perspective
During the discussion, Raj Subramaniam congratulated Daines on the recognition and reflected on his diverse professional background, which includes experience as a chemical engineer, corporate executive at Procter & Gamble, entrepreneur and public servant.
Looking back on his career, Daines recalled working in China during the 1990s while employed by Procter & Gamble. He noted that witnessing China’s rapid economic transformation firsthand influenced his understanding of Asia’s changing economic landscape, pointing out that China’s economy has expanded dramatically over the past three decades.
The senator also mentioned recent diplomatic engagements in Central Asia and the South Caucasus, including efforts related to discussions between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He said the United States continues to play an important role internationally because democratic values and freedom remain powerful foundations for global cooperation.
Commitment to India-US Relations Beyond Public Office
Although Daines has announced plans to leave the Senate, he said he intends to remain actively involved in international affairs through the private sector. He expressed particular interest in continuing efforts that strengthen ties between India and the United States.
Ending his remarks on a personal note, Daines shared that an Indian doctor played a crucial role in saving his father’s life during cancer treatment. He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Indian-American community to American society, saying their impact has earned deep respect.