Aiming to counter China’s growing influence and perceived threats from Pakistan, influential US Senator Marco Rubio introduced a bill in Congress on Friday. The proposed US-India Defence Cooperation Act emphasizes strong “technology transfers” to India and advocates for treating India with the same status as US allies like Japan, Israel, South Korea, and NATO members.
The legislation mandates the US administration to report to Congress on Pakistan’s use of offensive force, including terrorism and proxy groups, against India. It further proposes barring Pakistan from receiving security assistance if it is found to have sponsored terrorism against India.
The enactment of this bill could significantly impact Pakistan, as Islamabad and Washington work to enhance their bilateral relationship. Providing India with advanced weapons typically reserved for close US allies and NATO members could undermine Pakistan’s defense capabilities and limit its response to Indian actions in the region.
Despite the bill’s unlikely advancement in the current Congress, which ends its session this year, it may be reintroduced in the next Congress due to bipartisan support for strengthening the India-US relationship.
The bill argues that the US-India partnership is essential for countering China’s influence and suggests enhancing Washington’s strategic diplomatic, economic, and military relationship with New Delhi. Senator Rubio stated that the proposed legislation would declare a policy for the US to support India in responding to threats to its territorial integrity, provide necessary security assistance to deter adversaries, and cooperate in defense, civil space, technology, medicine, and economic investments.
A notable provision in the bill is a limited exemption for India from CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) sanctions, which target Russian defense and intelligence sectors. This exemption would allow India to purchase Russian equipment currently used by its military without facing US sanctions.
The bill seeks a ‘Sense of Congress’ statement supporting expeditious consideration of certifications for letters of offer to sell defense articles, services, design and construction services, and major defense equipment to India, deeming it consistent with US interests. It highlights the importance of India having the capabilities needed to deter threats for peace and stability.
Additionally, the bill authorizes the Secretary of State to enter into a memorandum of understanding with India to increase military cooperation and expedite excess defense articles to India for two years. It also calls for expanding international military education and training cooperation with New Delhi, seeking the same status for India as other US allies.
