US and India bolster defense ties with visits and exercises, despite trade and human rights disputes.

India underscores strong defense ties with the US, despite tensions over trade and human rights. A US defense policy team will visit Delhi soon, and joint military exercises are planned for Alaska. India objects to a US human rights report, arguing it misrepresents the country's democratic processes. Both nations aim to hold a working-level strategic meeting by month's end, highlighting their partnership based on shared interests and values.