New York, US: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s three-day visit to the United States marks a significant diplomatic milestone as he engages with global leaders and the Indian diaspora, further solidifying India-US relations ahead of the upcoming US presidential election.
Quad Leaders’ Summit: A Focus on Cooperation
Modi’s visit kicked off with his address at the sixth Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, emphasizing a collective commitment to a “free and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.” The summit brought together US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, focusing on vital issues such as regional security, climate change, and economic collaboration. The groundwork laid during this summit sets the stage for the next gathering in India in 2025.
Bilateral Discussions with Biden
During a private meeting at his Delaware residence, President Biden and PM Modi discussed critical topics including drone procurement, military cooperation, and a new semiconductor plant in Kolkata. Biden reaffirmed the US’s support for India’s bid for permanent membership in the UN Security Council, recognizing India’s pivotal role in global peacekeeping efforts and security, especially in the context of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Support for Palestine and International Relations
In addition to his meetings with Biden, Modi engaged with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, voicing India’s support for the Palestinian people amidst the ongoing crisis in Gaza. He reiterated India’s commitment to a two-state solution and called for a ceasefire between Israel and Palestine.
Celebrating the Indian Diaspora
Modi addressed a vibrant gathering of approximately 15,000 members of the Indian diaspora at the “Modi and US” event, praising their role as “strong brand ambassadors” for India. He discussed India’s evolution in global markets, particularly in mobile manufacturing and digital infrastructure, and expressed optimism about the future availability of “Made in India” chips in the US.
Engaging with Tech Leaders
The Prime Minister also held a roundtable discussion with prominent CEOs from major US tech companies, including Google and IBM, to explore collaborations in emerging fields such as AI, quantum computing, and biotechnology. Modi highlighted India’s potential as a global semiconductor manufacturing hub, aiming to attract further investment and innovation.
Return of Cultural Heritage
In a significant cultural gesture, the US government is set to return 297 stolen or trafficked antiquities to India. This follows a landmark agreement aimed at combating the illegal trafficking of cultural property, further enhancing the cultural ties between the two nations. PM Modi expressed gratitude to President Biden for this initiative, which encompasses nearly 4,000 years of Indian history.
As Modi concludes this pivotal visit, the outcomes are poised to reinforce India’s standing on the global stage and deepen the strategic partnership with the United States.
