India Global Forum Launches in US, Strengthening Ties Ahead of Trump's Second Term

India Global Forum Launches in the United States

The India Global Forum (IGF) officially launched in the United States on January 17th, 2024. A high-profile delegation of Indian business leaders engaged in exclusive, closed-door discussions with members of the incoming administration and key US stakeholders and policymakers.

This landmark initiative comes at a pivotal moment, ahead of President-elect Donald Trump's second inauguration. It underscores the growing alignment between the world's two largest democracies, according to an IGF press release.

The event provided a platform for candid and informal conversations on the shared priorities and challenges shaping US-India relations. The focus was on geopolitics, security, defense, and economic cooperation. Topics included President Trump's populist approach, electoral shifts in the US, and the influential role of the Indian diaspora.

The dialogue also addressed the US economic landscape, exploring opportunities in digital infrastructure, technology, innovation, and foreign investment. It highlighted ways to strengthen bilateral collaboration.

"Democracies work best when democracies work together," remarked Manoj Ladwa, Founder and Chairman of India Global Forum, in his opening address. "Today, we are here not just to discuss policies or trends but to actively shape the synergies between India and the United States - two of the world's greatest democracies, working together to navigate a complex and rapidly changing global landscape," the release added.

The event was attended by Jacob Helberg, the Designated Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment in the new administration, and other key policymakers.

Discussions were guided by a lineup of prominent voices. Ajit Pai, the former Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission of the United States, shared his observations from working under President Trump's first administration. He noted how Trump 2.0 will have different implications for big tech, crypto, and regulation. He also offered personal insights on the newly created DOGE agency.

India and the World, discussed improved cooperation between the US and India. He also addressed what to expect under a Trump presidency and India's strategic priorities.

Decision Desk's Scott Tranter joined the IGF Business Delegation. He provided a deep dive into the data behind the 2024 elections and his predictions for key policy trends over the next four years.

A former National Security Official in the first Trump administration spoke about natural synergies on defense procurement, energy, and global supply chains. He discussed how the US and India could push the envelope to strengthen bilateral ties.