US Chargé d’Affaires Donald L Heflin said that India plays a key role in the Indo-Pacific region. He said that the cooperation between India and the United States advances the shared vision of rule-based order and promotes the international prosperity and security of all countries.
While speaking at the US Embassy’s conference on Aero India at Bengaluru, US Chargé d’Affaires Donald L Heflin on Tuesday said that Indo-US defense ties go beyond defense manufacturing and trade.
While responding to a question on the Indian government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign, Heflin said: “We recognize India’s ambitions of having a vibrant and indigenous defense industrial sector. Indo-US relationship goes beyond defense manufacturing and trade, we’ve signed several foundational defense agreements and have regular engagements and exercises.” The Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign aims to indigenize and reduce dependence on foreign products and technology.
Heflin stated that the Indian Defense procurement is an issue for the Indian government to decide. He added that the United States recognizes India’s desire to produce more of its military equipment indigenously and as this process unfolds and India will need to develop some key capabilities with the careful use of outside procurements.
Heflin also said India’s defense sector plays a crucial role in the Indo-Pacific region. He said: “India plays a key role in the Indo-Pacific region and our cooperation advance our shared vision of rule-based order that promotes the international prosperity and security of all countries.”
Heflin also stated that “We are also here to show our steadfast support to the numerous US companies participating in India’s first hybrid air show.” He further said that the participation will reflect the depth and breadth of the US-India partnership.
The Aero India air show is scheduled to be held from February 3 to 5 at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru.
Also Read: US B-1B Lancer long-range heavy bomber to perform fly-by at Aero India 2021
Also Read: US govt allows Boeing to sell F-15EX fighter jet to India
