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PM Modi and U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance Discuss Indian Investments in U.S. Nuclear Technology

In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance in Paris to discuss India’s potential investment in U.S. nuclear technology. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the AI Action Summit, which was co-chaired by PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron. This discussion marks a crucial step in strengthening Indo-U.S. cooperation in the field of clean and reliable nuclear energy.

 

Key Focus: Strengthening Nuclear Energy Cooperation

According to the Vice President’s office, the talks centered on how the United States can assist India in diversifying its energy sources through investments in U.S. nuclear technology. The meeting is particularly important in light of India's growing energy needs and its commitment to expanding clean energy infrastructure.

 

This development follows India’s recent decision to amend the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act and the Atomic Energy Act, which had been key roadblocks for U.S. and French nuclear energy companies seeking to invest in India. These laws imposed stringent liability requirements on suppliers in the event of a nuclear accident, deterring foreign investment in India's civil nuclear sector for years. By revising these regulations, India aims to create a more favorable environment for international nuclear collaboration.

 

The Role of AI and Technology in the Talks

Beyond nuclear energy, Vice President Vance also acknowledged PM Modi’s positive stance on artificial intelligence (AI). As co-chair of the AI Action Summit, Modi has emphasized India’s commitment to ethical AI development and global cooperation in technology governance. The discussion further reinforced the importance of technological partnerships between India and the United States, particularly in emerging sectors like AI and clean energy.

 

A Personal Connection: Usha Vance’s Presence

The meeting was also attended by U.S. Second Lady Usha Vance, who is of Indian descent. Her presence added a personal and cultural dimension to the discussions, reflecting the deep-rooted people-to-people ties between the two nations.

 

Implications for U.S.-India Relations

This high-level engagement signifies the strengthening of strategic ties between India and the United States. Nuclear cooperation has been a key aspect of bilateral relations, especially following the U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement signed in 2008. With regulatory hurdles being addressed, there is renewed optimism for increased investments and technological exchanges in the nuclear energy sector.

 

Additionally, this dialogue aligns with India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, as nuclear energy is considered a crucial component of the country’s clean energy transition. For the United States, expanding nuclear energy cooperation with India supports its broader foreign policy goals of promoting energy security, technological leadership, and stronger economic ties with India.

 

The meeting between PM Modi and Vice President J.D. Vance underscores the growing strategic and economic partnership between India and the U.S.. With India’s legislative changes paving the way for foreign investment in its nuclear sector, this dialogue could lead to new collaborations that enhance both nations’ energy security and technological advancements. As the world moves toward cleaner energy solutions, U.S.-India cooperation in nuclear technology could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global energy.