At the prestigious Raisina Dialogue, a key geopolitical event in India, Tulsi Gabbard, former U.S. Congresswoman and presidential candidate, made a compelling statement regarding the future of U.S.-India relations and global cooperation. With her background in foreign policy and military service, Gabbard’s remarks carried weight as she underscored the significance of strengthening ties between the two largest democracies in the world, the United States and India. Her statement, “America first is not America alone,” not only sought to highlight the importance of cooperative global partnerships but also provided a refreshing perspective on how the U.S. can engage with the world more effectively.
The Context: Raisina Dialogue
The Raisina Dialogue, held annually in New Delhi, is one of India’s most high-profile forums for discussing critical global issues, bringing together policymakers, diplomats, academics, and experts from around the world. The 2025 edition of the dialogue focused on topics ranging from global security and economic recovery to climate change and the evolving geopolitical landscape in Asia.
As a prominent figure, Gabbard’s participation in the dialogue provided a platform to express her views on international relations, particularly in regard to U.S. foreign policy, global security, and the changing role of major powers such as India. Her words resonated strongly in the context of India’s growing influence on the world stage, as well as the rising significance of U.S.-India cooperation in key areas such as defense, technology, and trade.
Strengthening U.S.-India Relations: A Shared Vision for the Future
During her speech, Gabbard emphasized the importance of building stronger, more collaborative relationships between India and the United States. She noted that while the two nations have made significant strides in strengthening their ties over the past few decades, there is still much more potential to be unlocked.
“India is an indispensable partner for the United States in a rapidly changing world,” Gabbard said, acknowledging the shared democratic values that form the bedrock of the bilateral relationship. With both countries witnessing robust growth and geopolitical influence, Gabbard stressed the importance of deepening cooperation on a range of issues, from defense and security to technology and climate change.
Her statement was a recognition of the shifting global dynamics, where traditional alliances are being reevaluated, and new partnerships are emerging. India, as one of the fastest-growing economies and a key player in the Indo-Pacific region, is becoming an increasingly important partner for the U.S., not just in economic terms but also in shaping the global order.
America First Is Not America Alone
One of the most striking parts of Gabbard’s address was her discussion of the concept of “America first,” which was central to the foreign policy stance of former U.S. President Donald Trump. While many associate the “America First” doctrine with a more isolationist approach to international relations, Gabbard’s perspective was different.
“America first is not America alone,” she asserted, urging the U.S. to engage more deeply with the world through cooperation and collaboration. Gabbard’s words were a stark contrast to the zero-sum approach that sometimes dominates American political rhetoric. She advocated for global engagement that does not come at the expense of other nations but instead focuses on mutual benefits, shared values, and collective growth.
This approach is particularly significant in the context of U.S.-India relations. As two major democracies with shared interests in maintaining peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, the U.S. and India must not only look inward but also prioritize a broader, more inclusive approach to international relations.
Gabbard’s emphasis on the importance of alliances was further underscored by her call for greater U.S. support for India in its efforts to promote regional stability, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges posed by China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific. The need for a united front against common global challenges, including the rise of authoritarianism and climate change, was central to Gabbard’s message.
Enhancing Defense and Security Ties
One of the key areas Gabbard focused on was the need to enhance defense and security ties between the U.S. and India. With both countries facing rising threats from various global actors, especially in the context of China’s expanding influence, strengthening military cooperation is critical for maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific region.
India, as the world’s largest democracy, plays a pivotal role in countering China’s assertive foreign policy, particularly in the South China Sea, the Indian Ocean, and the Taiwan Strait. Gabbard highlighted the importance of leveraging defense collaborations, such as the U.S.-India Strategic Partnership, to ensure that both nations are well-equipped to address regional security threats.
She also called for increased interoperability between the U.S. and Indian armed forces, as well as joint military exercises that can foster better coordination in times of crisis. Building on existing agreements like the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) and the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), Gabbard advocated for deeper cooperation in intelligence sharing, defense technology, and cybersecurity.
A Shared Vision for Technological Innovation and Climate Change
Apart from defense and security, Gabbard also underscored the potential for collaboration in the fields of technology and climate change. Both India and the U.S. are global leaders in technological innovation, and there is a tremendous opportunity to leverage this strength for mutual benefit.
Gabbard suggested that the U.S. and India should work together to tackle the world’s most pressing issues, such as climate change, energy security, and environmental sustainability. India, with its growing energy needs and rapid development, faces significant challenges related to climate change. The U.S., with its technological prowess, can assist India in transitioning to clean energy sources, developing sustainable infrastructure, and tackling air pollution. In return, India’s large market and burgeoning green technology sector offer new avenues for American companies to invest and expand.
On the technology front, Gabbard emphasized the importance of fostering innovation in sectors like artificial intelligence, space exploration, and information technology. Both nations can benefit from greater collaboration in these areas, which will not only contribute to economic growth but also to the development of solutions for some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Conclusion: A Vision of Global Cooperation
Tulsi Gabbard’s remarks at the Raisina Dialogue are a timely reminder of the importance of global cooperation in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Her vision of “America first, but not America alone” challenges the traditional view of isolationism and promotes a more inclusive, cooperative approach to international relations. Gabbard’s call for strengthening U.S.-India ties, particularly in the areas of defense, technology, and climate change, reflects a broader recognition of India’s growing influence on the global stage.
As the world grapples with rising geopolitical tensions, environmental crises, and technological disruptions, the U.S. and India must continue to work together to ensure peace, prosperity, and progress. With leaders like Tulsi Gabbard championing the cause of bilateral cooperation, the future of U.S.-India relations looks bright—rooted in shared values, common interests, and a commitment to global stability.
