NEW DELHI: The United States’ “America First” approach should not be misconstrued as isolationism, US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard clarified on Tuesday.
Speaking at the 10th edition of the Raisina Dialogue, India’s leading global conference, Gabbard emphasized that President Donald Trump’s policies prioritize national interests without dismissing international alliances.
“President Trump is dedicated to ensuring the security, well-being, and liberty of the American people. However, America First does not imply that America stands alone,” she remarked in her keynote speech on the second day of the event in New Delhi.
She highlighted a similar approach by other global leaders, stating, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to India First. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is focused on New Zealand First.”
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Luxon, who is currently on a five-day visit to India, delivered his keynote address on the first day of the summit.
Expressing optimism about US-India relations, Gabbard, who opened and closed her speech with “Jai Shri Krishna,” reaffirmed that the partnership between the two nations is rooted in shared democratic values.
“For decades, India and the US have maintained a strong alliance. Under the leadership of two remarkable leaders—President Trump and Prime Minister Modi—this bond will only grow stronger, driven by common goals of peace, security, and economic progress,” she stated.
Gabbard also expressed gratitude to PM Modi for inviting her to India, following his US visit earlier this year.
“I am leaving for Washington DC right after this dialogue, but my time here has been valuable. It has been productive engaging with Indian counterparts and building upon the momentum created by President Trump and PM Modi’s joint statement in Washington,” she said.
Gabbard is the first high-ranking official from President Trump’s second term to visit India. During her trip, she held bilateral talks with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, attended a global intelligence summit chaired by Doval, and met key Indian leaders, including Prime Minister Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
