The specific reference to the South China Sea disputes, along with the forward movement on the US-India nuclear deal, in the joint statement issued by US President Barack Obama and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Jan 25, is seen by analysts and some Indian media outlets as a significant outcome of Obama's recent visit to India. The US-India joint statement issued in September 2014 during Modi's visit to the US too had mentioned the maritime disputes in the South China Sea.

While Washington and New Delhi have seen a significant improvement in their relations over the past decade, the presence of Obama as the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations on Jan 26 was a symbolic move signifying that India would not let the baggage of the past influence its ties with the US.

But despite the progress in Indo-US ties, Indian prime ministers over the past two decades have sought to build a strong relationship with China.