India, South Korea, and US to launch technology dialogues

India, South Korea, and the United States are set to initiate an informal trilateral technology dialogue in the first quarter of 2024 to respond to China’s rapid advancements in critical technologies across the Indo-Pacific region. The decision emerged from the inaugural US-South Korea Next Generation Critical & Emerging Technologies Dialogue in Seoul last week.

Following the meeting, a White House statement urged the initiation of National Security Council and National Security Office-led consultations with like-minded partners on critical and emerging technologies. This includes launching an informal trilateral technology dialogue with India in early 2024.

This move aligns with the Quad group’s existing partnership in the critical technologies domain, presenting an opportunity for synergy with the Quad initiative. 

Recent developments also saw India and the US expanding the scope of the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) during a review meeting. The discussions covered biotechnology, critical minerals, rare earths processing technologies, digital connectivity, digital public infrastructure, and advanced materials.

The Seoul meeting, chaired by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and Republic of Korea (ROK) National Security Advisor Cho Tae-yong, outlined six main strategic technology areas for cooperation. These include semiconductor supply chains and technology, biotechnology, batteries, clean energy technology, quantum science and technology, digital connectivity, and artificial intelligence.

The National Security Advisors emphasised the importance of aligning and adapting technology protection toolkits, including mechanisms like the Disruptive Technology Protection Network and investment screening, to prevent the leakage of sensitive and dual-use technologies. 

Source: Economic Times