Joe Biden administration has decided to re-establish “Homeland Security Dialogue” with India. This dialogue was discontinued by former President of United States Donald Trump.
Highlights
This decision was taken after the Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas hold talks with Ambassador of India to US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu on March 22, 2021. Security Secretary of Homeland extended his support to further strengthen the partnership between both the sides.
About India-US meeting
In the recent meeting, Sandhu and Mayorkas have agreed to re-establish Homeland Security Dialogue between India and United States. They also planned to discuss several important issues during the security dialogue including cybersecurity, emerging technology and addressing violent extremism. Both the ministers also highlighted the positive engagement which took place during Joe Biden administration like Quad. They also addressed major commitments to cooperate on Covid-19 and climate actions. Both sides also recognised significant contributions of entrepreneurs and students which have made both the countries stronger.
Background
The Homeland Security Dialogue was the initiative of Barack Obama’s administration. First Homeland Security Dialogue was held in May 2011 between Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and Home Minister of India P Chidambaram. The second security dialogue was held in Washington DC in 2013 between Indian Home Minister, Sushil Kumar and homeland secretary, Ms Napolitano.
United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
DHS is U.S. federal executive department which is responsible for public security. The stated missions of the department include border security, anti-terrorism, cyber security, immigration & customs, disaster prevention and management.