India joins US initiative to counter China as both 'align in def of liberty'
Times of India
by SACHIN PARASHARFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
India has formally joined the Pax Silica initiative, a US-led AI and supply chain security effort aimed at countering China's influence in critical technologies. The move marks a significant step in India's alignment with the United States, particularly in areas of technology and democratic values. During the announcement, US Ambassador Sergio Gor emphasized that Pax Silica is not just about technological collaboration but also about ensuring that free societies control the future of global economics and innovation.
The initiative, which now includes 11 members, focuses on reducing dependencies on adversarial nations and fostering partnerships with trusted allies. India's participation is seen as strategically crucial due to its engineering capabilities and critical mineral processing capacity, which are vital for AI development and supply chain resilience. Gor highlighted that India's "deep talent" makes it a key player in the coalition, capable of rivaling challenger states like China.
The joint declaration signed by Indian and US officials underscores shared values of freedom, openness, and the rule of law. It also prioritizes economic security, innovation, and the development of a robust AI ecosystem. The partnership aims to ensure that advancements in AI and technology serve the interests of both nations' citizens while promoting prosperity and harmony.
For India, joining Pax Silica is part of its broader strategy to deepen ties with the US, particularly after finalizing an interim trade agreement earlier this month. Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw noted that cooperation under Pax Silica will strengthen engagement on critical technologies and supply chain resilience, aligning with the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.
This collaboration signals a shift in global tech dynamics, with both nations committed to shaping an economic and technological order that reflects their democratic values. As China's influence in critical technologies continues to grow, the US-India partnership under Pax Silica is seen as a counterbalance, ensuring that innovation and competition remain fair and open.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/21/2026