NEW DELHI: The United States is set to eliminate longstanding regulations that have impeded civil nuclear collaboration between Indian nuclear entities and American companies. This announcement was made by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan during his recent visit to India. Sullivan described the decision as a pivotal moment in strengthening the US-India partnership, calling it “long overdue.”
“Although former President George W. Bush and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh envisioned robust civil nuclear cooperation nearly two decades ago, we have yet to fully realize that vision,” Sullivan stated. He emphasized that the Biden administration is committed to advancing this collaboration, noting that the required paperwork is being finalized. This will allow Indian entities previously restricted by US regulations to partner with American private sector players, scientists, and technologists.
Speaking at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, Sullivan remarked, “This move reflects the progress we have achieved in our strategic partnership and India’s transparent engagement over the past four years. It’s an opportunity to turn the page on past challenges and unlock new avenues for collaboration.”
The decision is part of Sullivan’s two-day visit to India, during which he engaged in discussions with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Sullivan acknowledged Doval’s pivotal role in advancing the US-India relationship and noted the strong personal and professional rapport they have developed over the past four years.
“This visit marks my final overseas trip as NSA, and I couldn’t think of a better way to conclude my tenure than by celebrating the strides we’ve made in the US-India relationship,” Sullivan said. He also predicted that within the next decade, joint initiatives could see Indian and American firms collaborating on advanced semiconductor technologies and space exploration research.
Sullivan’s agenda included a meeting with entrepreneurs at IIT Delhi, where he discussed the US-India alliance on innovation under the iCET initiative. Additionally, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar acknowledged Sullivan’s personal contributions to strengthening bilateral ties.
US Ambassador Garcetti Honors Former President Jimmy Carter
During an event at IIT Delhi, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti paid tribute to former US President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29 at the age of 100.
“This week, we remember a great statesman and human being, Jimmy Carter,” Garcetti said. Reflecting on Carter’s role in US-India relations, he added, “President Carter visited India at a challenging time in our bilateral ties and sought to rebuild the friendship that has defined our people for more than 200 years.”
The announcements underscore the growing depth of the US-India partnership, with renewed focus on innovation, collaboration, and shared goals in the years ahead.