New Delhi, March 27: Elbridge Colby, the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Policy, recently concluded his visit to India aimed at enhancing the crucial U.S.-India relationship. During his time in New Delhi, he engaged in discussions with senior officials to advance key aspects of the 2026 National Defense Strategy and the President’s Peace Through Strength agenda.
According to information shared by the Pentagon, Colby met with External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. He also co-chaired a meeting of the U.S.-India Defense Policy Group with Indian Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. These discussions aimed to further the framework of the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership, which was signed by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh in October 2025.
The framework emphasizes operational coordination, information sharing, regional and global cooperation, and enhancing defense industry, science, and technology collaboration between the two nations. Additionally, Colby consulted with U.S. Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs, Ambassador Sergio Gore.
During a speech at the Ananta Center in New Delhi, Colby highlighted the strength of the U.S.-India partnership. He outlined a framework to guide defense and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
Colby stated that the United States views India with great respect. He noted India’s proud strategic tradition and emphasized that New Delhi’s decisions will significantly impact the future of the Indo-Pacific region.
In a special session at the Ananta Center, Colby remarked, “The United States sees India with deep respect. As a republic of continental significance, a nation with a proud strategic tradition, and a country whose decisions will profoundly shape the future of the Indo-Pacific and the broader international landscape. While there are significant differences in our histories, geographies, and perspectives, we share a fundamental belief that the future of Asia should be determined by sovereign nations capable of charting their own paths.”
He further stated that the U.S. regards India not just as a major partner but as an essential ally in ensuring a long-term favorable balance of power in Asia.
Colby emphasized, “India’s importance extends beyond its size and economic potential; it is also tied to its geopolitical location and strategic position. Your country is situated along the Indian Ocean, which serves as a nexus for the Indo-Pacific. India has a long tradition of strategic autonomy, and its capacity is continuously growing, allowing it to influence events beyond its borders. It is the world’s largest republic, and its success carries profound symbolic and political significance. India possesses a strong, self-reliant, and capable military force, willing and able to take on significant security responsibilities.”
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