U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan will visit New Delhi from January 5-6, with discussions expected to include the contentious issue of Chinese dam projects, a senior U.S. official revealed. The talks will focus on the environmental and geopolitical implications of these dams, particularly their impact on downstream countries like India.
Concerns Over Chinese Dams
The U.S. and its Western allies have expressed concerns about China’s growing influence in Asia, with upstream dams being a focal point. “Upstream dams that the Chinese have created, including in the Mekong region, can have potentially damaging environmental and climate impacts on downstream countries,” the U.S. official said.
India has repeatedly raised its objections to China’s plans for a massive hydropower dam on the Yarlung Zangbo River in Tibet, which flows into India as the Brahmaputra. While Chinese officials claim the dam will not significantly affect the environment or downstream water supplies, the Indian government remains wary of its potential impact.
The project, expected to be the largest hydropower dam in the world with an annual capacity of 300 billion kilowatt-hours, was recently approved by Beijing, further heightening tensions.
Broader Agenda for the Visit
In addition to the dam issue, the U.S. and India will discuss topics such as civilian nuclear cooperation, artificial intelligence, space collaboration, military licensing, and concerns over Chinese economic overcapacity, the U.S. official stated.
The visit reflects Washington’s efforts to bolster ties with India, seen as a key counterbalance to China’s regional dominance.
Sensitive Issues and Diplomatic Nuances
The U.S. official clarified that Sullivan would not meet the Dalai Lama during his visit, signaling an effort to avoid further antagonizing Beijing.
While U.S.-India ties have grown stronger in recent years, occasional disagreements persist. These include issues like human rights concerns in India, New Delhi’s ongoing relationship with Russia despite Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, and allegations of plots against Sikh separatists in the U.S. and Canada.
Strengthening Indo-U.S. Relations
As the U.S. and India navigate shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific, Sullivan’s visit underscores Washington’s commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with New Delhi while addressing shared concerns over China’s regional ambitions.
