WASHINGTON, DC: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received an official welcome at the White House today, marking the beginning of his state visit to the United States.
The event was accompanied by military bands playing both countries’ national anthems and a parade of soldiers on the lawn. Supporters of Modi chanted his name, while protesters gathered outside the White House gates.
US President Joe Biden expressed his belief that the relationship between the United States and India would be a defining one in the 21st century.
ALSO READ: PM Modi trumps global leaders with 76% approval rating
“India and US are working closely on eliminating poverty, expanding access to healthcare, addressing climate change and tackling food and energy insecurity triggered by the Russian-Ukraine war,” President Biden said.
He warmly welcomed Modi back to the White House, highlighting the importance of the two countries working and leading together.
“I’ve long believed the relationship between the United States and India will be one of the defining relationships of the 21st century,” President Biden said. “Prime Minister Modi, welcome back to the White House.”
ALSO READ: Modi’s thoughtful gifts to Biden reflect India’s Vedic traditions
Biden praised the informal QUAD group consisting of the US, India, Australia, and Japan, which has been viewed as a defence against China. He also emphasised the shared core principles of equity under the law, freedom of expression, religious pluralism, and diversity.
“The challenges and opportunities facing the world in this century require that India and the United States work and lead together, and we are,” President Biden said. “With your cooperation, we have strengthened the QUAD for a free, open, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Decades from now, people will look back and say that the Quad bent the arc of history for global good,” he added.
ALSO READ: In US, Indian expats bat for PM Modi’s re-election
The leaders had a more informal dinner on Wednesday, preceding the main events scheduled for Thursday. Before the official events, Modi started his day by hosting a yoga event at the United Nations and then visited the National Science Foundation with US First Lady Jill Biden. He also had dinner with President Biden at the White House and met with Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and owner of Twitter. On Friday, Modi is set to address business leaders during his visit.
Modi has visited the United States five times since assuming office in 2014, but this state visit holds greater significance. Analysts view this as a reflection of the Biden administration’s recognition of India’s role and importance in the future. The visit aims to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries and address shared concerns and opportunities.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
