Indo - US Relations: The Way Ahead; Strategy research project

摘要

After decades of regarding each other with suspicion, India and the US have moved rapidly from uneasy cooperation to incipient partnership. This fundamental shift in their relations has come about due to the change in the world order as a result of the end of Cold War, India's economic growth, Indian nuclear tests of 1998, and the 11 September 2001 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. Convergence of democratic values, vital national interests, common respect for individual freedom, rule of law, the importance of civil society and peaceful inter-state relations make India and the US natural allies. Even though both countries will continue to have differences in their strategic views, the dynamics of partnership remain strong. This SRP examines the history of their bilateral relations since its formative period and describes the positive transition that has led to the present relationship. It concludes that, while India and the US are formally expanding their strategic cooperation, the current results still fall short of the partnerships potential. Considerable work still needs to be done before this strategic partnership can become an undeniable success.