NEW YORK, 27 April, 2021 (TON): U.S. State Department spokesman Ned Prince declared that the U.S. help to India to meet the COVID-19 surge is unconditional and does not expect political favors in return.

On Monday, the spokesperson said, "We have a Global Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with India. But the Secretary (of State Anthony Blinken) has been clear: This is not about shots in arms in return for political favors, in return for any sort of transactionalism. This is about America's humanitarian leadership, the commitment that this administration has, to help those most in need."

"So we are doing what is in our national interest, but we're also doing what's in the collective interest. And it just so happens when it comes to global health, oftentimes what's in our national interest is also in the collective interest, and that's what we're seeing here," he added.

However, since the beginning of the pandemic, the US has provided nearly $19 million in total assistance, and that includes nearly $11 million in health assistance to help India slow the spread of infections, the official affirmed.