US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke over phone with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval on October 31 and discussed regional security developments, underscoring the need for further efforts to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific region and globally, the White House said in a statement.
The two leaders welcomed progress in the bilateral partnership, including through the upcoming Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) Intersessional and Indian Ocean Dialogue.
They also discussed further opportunities for closer collaboration in key domains, including clean energy supply chains and defence cooperation. The conversation comes in the backdrop of strains created by an alleged plot to target a Khalistan separatist on American soil. There was no official word from the Indian side on the conversation.
The dialogue also highlights the deepening strategic partnership between India and the United States, underscored by shared democratic values and mutual interests, according to the official statement.
In September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with President Joe Biden during the Quad Summit in Delaware, where they discussed ways to advance bilateral cooperation on global and regional issues, including the Indo-Pacific. PM Modi acknowledged President Biden’s contributions in advancing the India-US partnership, adding that recent high-level visits have infused greater dynamism into the relationship.
Vajra Prahar exercise
Meanwhile, the 15th India-US joint Special Forces Exercise, Vajra Prahar, began on November 2 at Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, US. It will conclude on November 22.
In December last year, the same exercise was conducted at Umroi, Meghalaya. This will be the second exercise of the year between Indian and the US Army. The previous exercise, Yudh Abhyas 2024, was conducted in Rajasthan in September. Defence Ministry said contingents of both the countries taking part in the joint exercise will comprise 45 personnel each. The Indian Army contingent is being represented by Special Forces units and the US Army contingent is represented by Green Berets of US.
The aim of Vajra Prahar is to promote military cooperation between India and the US through the enhancement of interoperability, jointness and mutual exchange of special operations tactics. It will enhance combined capabilities in executing joint Special Forces’ operations in desert and semi-desert environment. The exercise will focus on high degree of physical fitness, joint planning and joint tactical drills.
