New Delhi, March 25 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar met with the visiting US Under Secretary of War for Policy, Elbridge Colby, in New Delhi on Wednesday to discuss the evolving geopolitical landscape.

"It was a pleasure to engage with US Under Secretary of War Elbridge Colby this afternoon. We shared insights on the current geopolitical situation," EAM Jaishankar tweeted post-meeting.

On Tuesday, Colby emphasized that the US holds India in high regard, noting that New Delhi's decisions will significantly influence the future of the Indo-Pacific region.

"The United States respects India deeply — as a vast republic with a rich strategic tradition, and as a nation whose choices will have a profound impact on the Indo-Pacific and the broader international context. Our countries have different histories, geographies, and perspectives, yet we share a fundamental belief: the future of Asia should be determined by sovereign nations capable of defining their own paths," Colby stated during a special session at the Ananta Centre.

The senior Pentagon official is in India to engage with top officials in New Delhi and strengthen the crucial India-US strategic partnership.

Colby remarked that the US considers India not just a key ally, but an essential partner in maintaining a favorable long-term balance of power in Asia.

"India's significance arises not only from its vastness and economic potential but also from its geographic and strategic position. Your nation lies at the heart of the Indian Ocean, which serves as the connective tissue of the Indo-Pacific. India has a longstanding tradition of strategic autonomy and an increasing ability to influence events beyond its borders. As the world's largest republic, its success carries immense symbolic and political importance. Furthermore, it possesses strong, independent, and capable military forces, ready to undertake significant security responsibilities," Colby stated.

Highlighting India's indispensable role, the US Under Secretary asserted that Washington's approach towards its strategic partnership with India is grounded in interests and realism, shaped by geopolitical considerations rather than lofty aspirations or detached idealism.

"We recognize that India has its own interests, strategic culture, and priorities, and it is not hesitant to pursue them," Colby added, observing that the perspectives of India and the US seem closely aligned.

"Minister of External Affairs Dr. Jaishankar has described India's approach as 'Bharat First' and its strategic outlook as 'the India Way'. Much like the 'America First' policy and flexible realism, Bharat First and the India Way emphasize a pragmatic approach to foreign policy, a clear commitment to prioritizing national interests, and a results-oriented stance in international relations," Colby said.

Upon announcing Elbridge Colby's visit to India, the US Department of War stated, "Under Secretary Colby's visit will aim to advance the objectives set forth by President Trump and Prime Minister Modi in their February 2025 joint statement and to implement the Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership."