US to Urge India to Counter China in Indo-Pacific; Both Nations Discuss Enhanced Partnership Amid Global Challenges in Middle East and Europe

The United States is expected to urge India to play a more significant role in countering China in the region, potentially escalating tensions between India and China. This comes as both countries hold talks to enhance their partnership amid global challenges, including addressing security concerns in the Indo-Pacific region. Top officials from India and the U.S. emphasized the need to strengthen their friendship to tackle urgent geopolitical challenges. The discussions also focused on boosting defense cooperation between the two nations, particularly in light of China's growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea disputes. The U.S. and India are working to promote an open and secure Indo-Pacific region, addressing regional security, China's assertive behavior, and conflicts in the Middle East and Europe. The 2+2 leaders' dialogue reaffirms the enduring strength of the relationship between India and the U.S.