In a significant diplomatic engagement, United States Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, is set to undertake a crucial visit to India from December 7 to 11. The visit, announced by the US Embassy, underscores the continued commitment from both nations to advance a robust bilateral partnership and work towards a free and open Indo-Pacific region, aligning with President Donald Trump's priorities.
Focus on Strategic Dialogue and Trade Talks
The core of Hooker's agenda in New Delhi will involve high-level Foreign Office Consultations with India's Foreign Secretary, Vikram Misri. These talks are designed to review the entire spectrum of bilateral cooperation. A key focus will be on the commercial relationship, especially as both countries work to finalize a bilateral trade agreement. In a parallel development, a team led by Deputy US Trade Representative (USTR) Rick Switzer is also in India this week to negotiate the first phase of this pivotal pact.
This coordinated diplomatic push signals that India and the US are determined not to let trade disagreements hinder the progress of their broader strategic alliance. The visit follows last week's meeting of the India-US Counterterrorism Working Group, where both sides condemned the terror incident at the Red Fort.
The US Embassy stated that Under Secretary Hooker's mission will concentrate on advancing the US-India strategic partnership, deepening economic and commercial links—with an emphasis on increasing American exports—and fostering collaboration in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence and space exploration.
New Delhi Agenda: Security and Regional Priorities
During her time in the national capital, Hooker will meet with senior Indian officials to discuss pressing issues of regional security and economic cooperation. Conversations will center on shared priorities in the Indo-Pacific region. The Foreign Office Consultations with Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will provide a structured platform to align strategies and address mutual concerns.
Bengaluru Leg: Space, Tech, and Innovation Partnerships
The Under Secretary's itinerary will then take her to Bengaluru, India's technology hub. Here, she is scheduled to visit the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Furthermore, she will engage with leaders from India's vibrant space, energy, and technology sectors. The objective of these meetings is to promote innovation within US-India research partnerships and to identify concrete opportunities for expanded cooperation in these high-growth areas.
Hooker's five-day tour highlights the multifaceted nature of the US-India relationship, where strategic, economic, and technological dimensions are being pursued simultaneously with renewed vigor.
