Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard recently completed a strategic Indo-Pacific tour to weave “America First” principles into regional intelligence operations. Her meetings spanned multiple countries, emphasizing stronger intelligence cooperation and counterterrorism efforts, but more details reveal the actual strategic depth of her journey.
Strategic Visits Across Key Regions
Tulsi Gabbard embarked on her second international trip as Director of National Intelligence, focusing on the Indo-Pacific region, visiting Hawaii, Japan, Thailand, India, and France. In Hawaii, she met U.S. Indo-Pacific Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo alongside senior intelligence and military leaders, underscoring the importance of accurate intelligence gathering that respects Americans’ Fourth Amendment rights.
New Delhi Watch | US Intel Chief Tulsi Gabbard in New Delhi
US Director of National Intelligence (DNI) @TulsiGabbard arrives in New Delhi as part of her Indo-Pacific tour, marking the first senior American visit under the Trump 2.0.
Her visit aligns with an annual intelligence… pic.twitter.com/Wy0UP2z1sY
— South Asia Times (@_southasiatimes) March 16, 2025
Gabbard engaged with senior diplomats and intelligence officers in Japan and Thailand to discuss enhancing intelligence collaboration. She also disclosed plans to visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki, focusing on honoring lives lost and promoting counter-proliferation efforts. Her itinerary also highlighted a meeting with India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, to discuss robust intelligence-sharing and counterterrorism initiatives.
Advancing Peace Through Realistic Diplomacy
Gabbard’s tour was deeply rooted in President Trump’s strategy of pursuing peace through realism and pragmatism. Her meetings in the Indo-Pacific were tailored towards fostering cooperation, which she argues is vital for addressing the unique challenges presented by the region. At the Raisina Dialogue in India, Gabbard emphasized geopolitics and economic partnership.
I'm a child of the Pacific 🏝️
I'm familiar with the rich and beautiful cultures kindness, hospitality and rich history of Indo-Pacific, It ( Indo Pacific) is not just a geographic space but the Geopolitical centre of gravity for 21st century – @DNIGabbard @TulsiGabbard at… pic.twitter.com/Jw8tqY5DVt— Tulsi For President🌺 (@TulsiPotus) March 18, 2025
This engagement reflects an approach that seeks to balance military readiness and diplomatic dialogue, ensuring clear communication and alignment on common goals with regional partners such as India, whose cooperation is key to U.S. strategic interests.
A Focus on Security and Economic Ties
Through her travels, Gabbard underscored the dual importance of robust intelligence operations and the cultivation of stronger cultural and economic ties. By doing so, she aims to create a strengthened front capable of addressing the distinct challenges posed by the Indo-Pacific environment. This highlights a nuanced understanding of the strategic imperatives necessary in these regions. Her tour symbolized a commitment to embedding “America First” principles in international collaboration, viewing it as essential for immediate security concerns and long-term stability.
Gabbard’s Indo-Pacific tour represents a significant step in aligning regions with American interests. She pursues partnerships based on shared security and a mutual desire for peace, leveraging diplomacy to forge enduring alliances.
Sources:
https://www.dni.gov/index.php/newsroom/press-releases/press-releases-2025/4057-pr-04-25
