Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significance of the friendship between India and the United States in the post-COVID era, stating that it will contribute to global strength. In his address at the ceremonial welcome at the White House in Washington DC this evening, Prime Minister Modi said, India and US are committed to working together for global good and peace, stability, and prosperity.
Towards a stronger 🇮🇳-🇺🇸 partnership!
Glimpses from the ceremonial welcome for PM @narendramodi at the @WhiteHouse. pic.twitter.com/xBXn6gNdGo
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) June 22, 2023
He stated that the strong strategic partnership between India and the US serves as a clear testament to the power of democracy. He stressed the shared values of diversity and the fundamental principle of working “In the interest of all, for the welfare of all,” which both countries take pride in.
Regarding the bilateral talks with US President Joe Biden, Modi expressed confidence that they would address regional and global issues, anticipating a positive outcome. He expressed gratitude to President Biden for the warm welcome, his insightful speech, and their friendship.
The Prime Minister regarded the grand welcome ceremony as a moment of immense pride for the 1.4 billion people of India and the 4 million-strong NRI (Non-Resident Indian) community. He recalled his visit to the US three decades ago, where he could only see the White House from the outside. He expressed joy in witnessing the gates of the White House being opened for the Indian-American community in such large numbers for the first time. PM Modi acknowledged the Indian community’s contribution to enhancing India’s reputation in the US through their dedicated hard work.
In his address, the US President said the relationship between US and India is one of the defining relationships of the 21st Century. Biden said, he is honoured to be the first US President to host Modi as a state guest. He said that the challenges and opportunities of the current times require India and the US to work together, which they are. He added that together, both nations are working closely on addressing poverty, tackling climate change and food insecurity.
President Biden said that the decisions they make today will determine the future of decades to come. He stated that with Modi’s cooperation, QUAD has been strengthened for a free, open, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. He said that decades from now, people will look back and say that the Quad bent the arc of history for global good. President Biden said the Indian diaspora remains a bridge between the two nations.