NSA Doval Talks with US Counterpart on Global Peace Efforts

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval had a phone conversation with his American counterpart Jake Sullivan on Friday. This discussion followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Russia, which hinted at some unease in India-US relations. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that both advisors emphasised the importance of working together to tackle global peace and security challenges and to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

Focus on Shared Values and Strategic Interests

The MEA highlighted that Doval and Sullivan agreed to collaborate closely to advance India-US relations, which are founded on shared values and common strategic and security interests. They talked about a variety of bilateral, regional, and international issues. Additionally, they discussed upcoming high-level engagements under the Quad framework scheduled for July 2024 and later in the year.

The conversation between the two national security advisors occurred a day after US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti made remarks that seemed critical of India's relationship with Russia. Speaking at an event in Delhi, Garcetti stressed the need for India and the US to uphold democratic principles when other nations defy the rules-based order.

US Ambassador's Remarks

Garcetti stated, "I know...and I respect that India likes its strategic autonomy. But in times of conflict, there is no such thing as strategic autonomy. We will, in crisis moments, need to know each other. I don't care what title we put to it, but we will need to know that we are trusted friends, brothers and sisters, colleagues." He did not directly mention Prime Minister Modi's visit to Moscow.

In what appeared to be a reference to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Garcetti remarked that no war is distant anymore. He said, "No war is distant anymore and we must not just stand for peace, we must take concrete actions to make sure those who don't play by peaceful rules, that their war machines cannot continue unabated."

Importance of Borders

Garcetti also emphasised the significance of maintaining border sanctity. He noted, "I don't have to remind India how important borders are... That when we stand on those principles and stand together, we can show that principles are the guiding light of peace in our world and together the world's two largest democracies can enhance the security and stability of our region."

The phone call between Doval and Sullivan underscores the ongoing efforts by both nations to address global challenges collaboratively. Their commitment to strengthening their strategic partnership reflects a shared vision for regional stability and security.