NEW DELHI (AP) — In a significant diplomatic development on Friday, India became part of an American-led coalition focused on enhancing technology partnerships among key allies, highlighting the improving relationship between the two nations following recent tensions over New Delhi’s continued acquisition of discounted Russian petroleum.
This partnership brings India into alignment with Washington’s strategy to establish reliable supply networks for computer chips, cutting-edge manufacturing, and vital technologies as global rivalry with China grows more intense. The move also represents a restoration of diplomatic relations after disagreements over energy purchases and trade duties.
Other countries participating in the Pax Silica program include Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Israel.
“Pax Silica will be a group of nations that believe technology should empower free people and free markets. India’s entry into Pax Silica isn’t just symbolic. Its strategic, its essential,” stated U.S. Ambassador Sergio Gor during remarks made before the agreement was officially signed.
The Pax Silica program focuses on enhancing collaboration between member nations regarding semiconductor development, manufacturing, research initiatives, and supply network stability. The program aims to decrease reliance on Chinese-controlled production centers while fostering dependable manufacturing partnerships among democratic nations and strategic allies.
This announcement at New Delhi’s artificial intelligence conference follows India and America reaching a preliminary trade agreement several weeks ago to lower tariffs and increase market access for both countries, helping to resolve disputes that had threatened to weaken bilateral progress.
President Donald Trump revealed earlier this month that America would reduce mutual import duties on India from 25% to 18% and eliminate an extra 25% charge that was imposed for purchasing Russian oil, following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to halt such purchases.
India had increased its Russian petroleum imports following Moscow’s military action in Ukraine in 2022, prompting disapproval from Western allies while New Delhi justified the transactions as essential for controlling domestic price increases and safeguarding consumers.
India’s participation in Pax Silica, along with trade benefits, represents a strategic alignment that goes beyond economic matters to encompass extended technology and security collaboration, strengthening India’s position as an important American ally in the Indo-Pacific region.
“From the trade deal to Pax Silica to defense cooperation, the potential for our two nations to work together is truly limitless,” Gor remarked.
