India and US Advance Tech Cooperation in High-Level Washington Meet
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with U.S. Under Secretary for Commerce Jeffrey Kessler in Washington to bolster bilateral cooperation in critical and emerging technologies. The discussions focused on advancing the strategic partnership between the two nations in key technological areas. This meeting underscores ongoing efforts by India and the US to deepen their ties and collaborate on future technological advancements of mutual interest.
Unpacked:
Key technologies include semiconductors, space, advanced telecommunications, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, biotechnology, cybersecurity, and clean energy. Both countries have emphasized these sectors as priorities under joint initiatives like iCET to drive innovation and build resilient technology supply chains.
The Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) was launched in 2022 by U.S. and Indian national security advisors under the direction of President Biden and Prime Minister Modi. It aims to integrate technology and defense supply chains, foster joint innovation, and expand cooperation in sectors such as semiconductors, space, and biotechnology.
Challenges include differences in export controls, data security standards, intellectual property rights, and regulatory barriers. While progress has been made in sectors like semiconductors and defense, cooperation in fields like artificial intelligence and biotechnology has advanced more slowly due to these obstacles.
India-U.S. technology cooperation strengthens regional partnerships, especially through multilateral forums like the Quad and trilateral initiatives with countries such as South Korea, Australia, and Japan. These efforts aim to build secure supply chains and drive innovation across the Indo-Pacific, enhancing collective resilience and technological leadership.