Tulsi Gabbard: Trump's 'America First' Policy Strengthens

US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard reaffirmed the strength of India-US ties at the Raisina Dialogue, dismissing concerns that former President Donald Trump’s ‘America First’ policy implies isolationism. Instead, she emphasized that the strategy prioritizes national security while fostering international cooperation, particularly with India.

Speaking at India’s premier geopolitical conference, Gabbard avoided directly addressing Trump’s recent threat to impose reciprocal tariffs starting April 2. However, she assured that the India-US partnership would continue to strengthen under Trump’s leadership, particularly within the Quad alliance, which includes India, Australia, Japan, and the US.

Gabbard, the first Hindu American to lead the US intelligence community, attended high-level discussions in New Delhi, including a security conclave chaired by India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. She highlighted that Trump’s America First policy is not about going alone but ensuring strong bilateral ties based on shared values. She likened it to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘India First’ approach, emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation.

“The partnership between our two countries has been strong for decades. Under the leadership of two great friends—President Trump and Prime Minister Modi—it will only grow further, rooted in our shared values of peace, freedom, security, and prosperity,” Gabbard stated.

She underscored India’s pivotal role in maintaining Indo-Pacific stability, calling the region the “geopolitical center of gravity for the 21st century.” She stressed the importance of collective security efforts, adding that Washington and New Delhi must collaborate on economic growth and technological advancements, including cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

Gabbard also acknowledged Modi’s visit to Washington last month as a reflection of the deep personal and diplomatic ties between the two leaders. She noted that discussions during her trip allowed her to understand India’s security concerns, particularly regarding the activities of Khalistani separatists in the US. Indian officials, including Doval and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, reportedly urged the US administration to take action on this matter.

Beyond security, Gabbard pointed to a growing economic and technological partnership, referencing the recently launched COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) initiative. This framework is expected to enhance cooperation in critical and emerging technologies.

Throughout her address, Gabbard made several references to her Hindu heritage, greeting the audience with “Aloha and Namaste.” She also shared details of her personal pilgrimage to holy sites in India, concluding her speech with “Aloha, Jai Shri Krishna.”

As India and the US navigate a complex global landscape, Gabbard’s remarks signal continued commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, ensuring that both nations benefit from a partnership built on trust, cooperation, and shared democratic values.