Hyderabad, Jan 6 (KNN) Jennifer Larson, the Consul-General of the US Consulate in Hyderabad, highlighted the United States' pivotal role as a major supplier of defence equipment to India and its largest military exercise partner.

Larson emphasised the substantial growth in bilateral defence trade, surging from nearly zero in 2008 to USD 25 billion by the end of 2023.

Speaking at the event 'Dialogues on Deliverables to Deliveries,' Larson underscored the close collaboration between the US and Indian governments, focusing on defence cooperation, mutual prosperity, climate crisis response, a free and secure Indo-Pacific, and a rules-based international order.

Larson commended partnerships between US aerospace companies and Indian counterparts, facilitating technology transfer and strengthening indigenous defence production capabilities.

The Consul-General emphasised the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region for both countries, citing joint military exercises like Tiger Triumph that showcased effective collaboration in disaster relief.

Larson reiterated ongoing efforts to define the region through collaboration, acknowledging differing perceptions between India and the US.

Stressing the Quad's commitment to a positive agenda for peace and prosperity, Larson positioned the India-US defence partnership as a pillar of global peace and security.

She underscored the transformative impact of this collaboration across various sectors, echoing sentiments affirmed by Presidents Biden and Modi in May last year. 

(KNN Bureau)