India and U.S. expand development cooperation in Asia and Africa

India and the United States today signed the Statement of Guiding Principles on Triangular Cooperation for Global Development.

The statement was signed by Kumar Tuhin, Joint Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs of India and John A. Beed, Mission Director for the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in India.

Pursuant to the fifth U.S.-India Strategic Dialogue, which underscored the contribution of the India - U.S. partnership to regional and global stability and prosperity, the document provides a framework for promoting greater cooperation in addressing development challenges in Asia and Africa and helping to strengthen connectivity in Asia.

India and the U.S. agreed to continue leveraging science, technology, and innovation to address shared challenges in multiple sectors including agriculture, nutrition, health, clean and renewable energy, women's empowerment, disaster preparedness, water, sanitation, and education.

The agreement helps fulfill the joint commitment of both nations to work together and leverage their combined capacities to provide demand-driven cooperation firmly rooted in third country leadership.

Both India and the U.S. will continue to collaborate closely with third country partners to strengthen institutions and build capacity. Initial efforts include continued training for African government, private sector, and academic professionals in food processing; and expanding collaboration for women's empowerment. Public-private partnerships may also be established that complement government-led initiatives and optimize overall impact.