India Declines US' Offer, Won't Join NATO+ Ahead of PM Modi Visit

NEW DELHI: India has clarified that it has no intention of joining the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), stating that the military alliance is not suitable for India. The statement came from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar during a press conference in New Delhi. This comes after a powerful Congressional Committee in the United States recommended strengthening NATO Plus by including India. However, India rejected the proposal, emphasizing that the NATO template does not apply to the country.

The US believes that India should join NATO in order to safeguard its boundaries from neighboring China and to strengthen global security against Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific region. The Congressional Committee recommended including India in NATO Plus to enhance defense cooperation and intelligence sharing among allied nations. They argued that bringing India on board would also allow the country to access advanced military technology more efficiently.

In contrast, India believes that it is capable of countering any Chinese aggression on its own. The geographical separation between the two countries by the Himalayan region makes it currently impossible for China to pose a direct threat to India. Additionally, India pointed out that China is currently facing an economic crisis, with declining exports and imports, indicating a slowdown in the country's economic rebound.

India's stance is based on its confidence in its own defense capabilities and its assessment of the geopolitical situation. The country believes it can effectively deal with any security challenges it faces and prefers to maintain its independent foreign policy rather than align itself with a military alliance like NATO.

India has declined the invitation to join NATO, stating that the alliance is not suitable for its defense needs. India remains confident in its ability to counter any potential threats and prefers to pursue its own independent foreign policy.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will visit India from June 13-14 in preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming state visit to the United States. The visit highlights the growing importance of bilateral ties and aims to lay the groundwork for defense deals and technological collaborations.

During Modi's visit to the US from June 21-24, significant defense agreements, including jet engine production and drone acquisition, are expected to be announced. These collaborations aim to strengthen India's defense capabilities and technological prowess, addressing regional challenges and solidifying India's position as a key partner for the United States.

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