New Delhi: In a major strategic signal amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, the United States has once again underlined that India is one of its most important defence partners in the region. Washington believes that strengthening defence ties with India is essential to counter China’s growing influence and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific.
This was stated by S. Paul Kapur, Assistant Secretary at the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, during his testimony before the US Congress on February 11. Kapur was addressing a subcommittee on the topic “South Asia: US Foreign Policy in the Region.”
US Focus on Trade, Defence Cooperation and Investment
During the hearing, Kapur explained that the United States is prioritizing deeper engagement with South Asian countries through expanded trade relations, enhanced defence cooperation, and targeted investments.
He noted that the US administration, under President Donald Trump, views defence ties as one of the strongest pillars of the India-US relationship.
10-Year Defence Cooperation Framework Strengthens Strategic Bond
Kapur referred to the recently discussed US-India trade deal and the proposed 10-year defence cooperation framework, stating that both initiatives would significantly deepen bilateral strategic relations.
According to him, the defence partnership is not merely transactional but strategically crucial for long-term geopolitical balance.
US Weapons Systems for India “In the Pipeline”
In his statement, Kapur confirmed that the supply of American weapons systems to India is currently “in the pipeline.” He emphasized that such defence deals would not only help India protect its sovereignty but also support US manufacturing and job creation.
A Strong and Self-Reliant India Seen as Key to Keeping China in Check
Highlighting the larger geopolitical message, Kapur said:
A capable and self-reliant India would play a decisive role in preventing China from dominating the Indo-Pacific region.
This reflects Washington’s growing belief that India’s military and strategic strength is vital to regional security.
India Called a “Vital Strategic Partner”
The Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs South and Central Asia Subcommittee, Bill Huizenga, also described India as a “vital strategic partner.”
He praised India as the world’s largest democracy and one of the fastest-growing economies, noting that it continues to remain a strong and dependable strategic ally.
What is the US-India Defence Framework?
The report highlighted that in October 2025, India and the United States signed a major defence agreement titled:
“Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership.”
The agreement was designed to enhance defence cooperation, joint capability development, and strategic alignment between the two nations.
On the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held discussions with US Secretary of War Peter Hegeseth, who reportedly termed India a priority country in achieving a free and open Indo-Pacific.
US Also Mentions Pakistan as a Regional Partner
Despite its emphasis on India, Kapur also referred to Pakistan as another significant regional partner. He stated that the US is working with Pakistan on areas like critical mineral resources and counter-terrorism cooperation.
He further noted that such cooperation could help Pakistan deal with internal security threats and terrorist groups operating from within its borders—groups that pose danger to other nations as well.
Pakistan’s Defence Minister: “US Used Us Like Toilet Paper”
The report also recalled a sharp statement made recently by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who claimed in Pakistan’s National Assembly that the United States had used Pakistan “like toilet paper.”
Asif reportedly stated that Pakistan changed its policies repeatedly to please Washington, only to be exploited during global conflicts, particularly in relation to Afghanistan, where superpowers fought for dominance.
A Strategic Shift, A Familiar Pattern
The growing US-India defence partnership is being widely interpreted as part of Washington’s broader strategy to curb China’s expansion. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s repeated complaints indicate increasing frustration over its declining relevance in America’s evolving South Asia policy.
With India’s strategic importance rising, analysts believe the region may be witnessing a significant geopolitical realignment—one that could leave Pakistan once again feeling sidelined in global power politics.
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