Following his assumption of office, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has arrived in New Delhi for his first official visit. Indian diplomats assert that their country is not a force that aims to destabilize the global order but rather a reformist power seeking to improve it. Given China’s vast production capacity and workforce, the United States considers deeper cooperation with India essential. Without Indian partnership, the US cannot effectively counter China’s rising influence in South Asia and other regions of the ‘Global South.’
Discussions about India frequently involve comparisons with China. Earlier this year, US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau visited New Delhi and clearly stated, “We will not repeat the mistake we made with China twenty years ago.” Now, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is visiting New Delhi; this is his first official trip since taking office. During this visit, every engagement is likely to involve some comparative dialogue regarding China. Historically, the US has supported emerging Asian powers but has also experienced setbacks.
This does not imply that every emerging power should be distrusted, but it is important to distinguish between forces that seek to undermine the international order and those aiming to reform it. Despite some weaknesses, India desires to maintain the existing global system and has a substantial basis to do so. Previously, China sought Western support during its rapid economic growth, but skepticism arose due to abuses of the World Trade Organization, intellectual property theft, and aggressive diplomatic behavior.
India’s freedom movement strengthened this character, emphasizing self-determination and national sovereignty. Indian diplomats emphasize their country’s role as a reformist force rather than one that seeks to disrupt the global order, and this belief is deeply rooted. Structurally, India and China differ significantly; China’s strategy is grounded in a Leninist party-state model prone to misuse in international relations. India, by contrast, does not exercise such rigid control and is subject to judicial oversight and legal constraints.
India will not suppress foreign business investment. While China seeks to change the United Nations’ structure, India calls for accountability based on the UN’s institutional principles. India’s rise will strengthen both regional and international stability. Its economic growth will help curb China’s ambitions in the Indo-Pacific and reduce pressure on smaller nations.
India’s growth is essential to meeting the challenges posed by China. The US is actively working to bring critical manufacturing back to its own shores. Compared to China’s enormous production capacity—which is currently three times that of the US—deep collaboration with India is indispensable. Viewed in this light, India is a reformist force within the international system and will not become another China. Washington must maintain continuous ties with India to effectively confront China’s rise. This rationale underpins Marco Rubio’s visit to India.
