According to a top Indian diplomat in Washington, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to the US will demonstrate that the partnership between the two nations is centered around the people and beneficial for the world as a whole. Describing the visit as "historic," India's Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, emphasized the renewed vigor and momentum infused into bilateral ties by Prime Minister Modi and President Biden.
Sandhu stated that the visit presents an opportunity for the two leaders to spend quality time together, assess the progress made, and provide guidance for the future possibilities that lie ahead. He further emphasized that the India-US partnership is not limited to the two countries alone but extends to the global stage, highlighting its people-centric and people-driven nature.
During the visit, scheduled for June 22, PM Modi will partake in a state dinner, as confirmed by White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre. The discussions between the leaders will focus on strengthening the shared commitment to a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific, as well as advancing the strategic technology partnership in areas such as defense, clean energy, and space. Education exchanges, people-to-people ties, and joint efforts in addressing common challenges like climate change, workforce development, and health security will also be on the agenda.
The invitation extended by President Biden to Prime Minister Modi has been widely welcomed, with Indian American Congressman Ro Khanna expressing his delight and emphasizing the positive impact it will have on strengthening the strategic partnership. Mukesh Aghi, president of the US-India Strategic and Partnership Forum, sees the visit as an opportunity to elevate the bilateral partnership to new heights and foster collaboration in critical and emerging technology sectors.
Atul Keshap, president of the US India Business Council, considers the invitation a significant diplomatic gesture, highlighting the respect and affection the American people have for India's rise. He believes that the state visit will further solidify the strategic, economic, and technological convergence between the world's two greatest democracies.
Aparna Pande from the Hudson Institute think-tank acknowledges India's importance in the security, diplomatic, and commercial architecture being developed by the United States in the Indo-Pacific region. She states that a stronger strategic partnership with the United States is crucial for India to enhance its global leverage.
Overall, the visit is seen as a pivotal moment for both countries to deepen their ties and harness the untapped potential in various areas, showcasing the energy, talent, and empowerment of their free societies.