A screenshot taken from a video shows Giridhar Aramane (2L) speaking at the INDUS-X Summit in New Delhi.
New Delhi: India has officially acknowledged, for the first time, the assistance it received from the United States in addressing the military stand-off with China along the line of actual control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh.
Giridhar Aramane, the defence secretary, revealed that the United States provided crucial intelligence and situational awareness during the LAC stand-off. Speaking at the India-US Defence Accelerator Ecosystem (INDUS-X) Summit, jointly organized by Innovations for Defence Excellence (India’s defence ministry) and the US’s defence department, Aramane expressed gratitude for this support. He emphasized that the information, intelligence, and any equipment assistance received were invaluable.
The event, coordinated by the US-India Business Council (USIBC) and the Society of India Defence Manufacturers, highlighted the growing partnership between the two nations.
Amid the ongoing stand-off with China, Aramane asserted India’s determination to confront its neighbour on multiple fronts. He stated that wherever there is a mountain pass, Indian forces are stationed to face any eventuality. The defence secretary also underscored the importance of US support, emphasizing that it is essential for India to stand firm against any challenges.
Regarding the Indo-Pacific region, Aramane highlighted the shared interests and values between India and the US. Notably, China’s aggressive actions in the maritime domain, including proxy warfare through pirates, have drawn attention to the strategic significance of the region.
“Today, we are witnessing a pivotal moment in the history of the Indo-Pacific region. The Indo-Pacific, with its vast expanse of oceans and strategic waterways, stands as the crossroad of global commerce, geopolitics, and security. In navigating the complex dynamics of this region, India and the US find themselves as key stakeholders, bound by shared values and common interests,” he said.
Besides Aramane, others who attended the session were the INDOPACOM commander, Admiral John C Aquilino and senior vice-president of USIBC South Asia, Atul Keshap. The session was moderated by the president of Asia Group, Rexon Ryu.
