The grand display of the growing strategic partnership between India and the US unfolded on the south lawns of the White House, where US President Joe Biden accorded a ceremonial state welcome to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event, witnessed by a crowd of 7,000 Indians and Indian-Americans, showcased the deep people-to-people convergence between the two nations. Both leaders expressed their commitment to democratic values and emphasised the significance of the India-US friendship in shaping a new global order.
Celebrating the Shared Democratic Norms:
President Biden and Prime Minister Modi highlighted the shared democratic norms that form the foundation of both Indian and American societies. Biden emphasised the principles of the rule of law, freedom of expression, religious freedom, and diversity as vital elements of their shared future. Modi reiterated that the strategic partnership between India and the US is a testament to the strength of democracy and the welfare of all citizens.
Recognizing the Role of the Diaspora:
The diaspora played a prominent role during the state visit, with chants of “Modi, Modi” and “USA, USA” resonating among the crowd. President Biden acknowledged the dynamism of the Indian diaspora, citing Vice President Kamala Harris as an example of their success in diverse American public spheres. Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude to Biden for honouring both the Indian population and the four million people of Indian origin residing in the US.
People-to-People Ties: The True Engine of the Relationship:
While official statements and agreements hold importance, both leaders emphasised the significance of people-to-people ties in strengthening the bilateral relationship. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the spirited engine of the relationship demonstrated by the crowd gathered outside the White House. The event symbolised the deep convergence and shared aspirations of the Indian and American people.
A Symbolic State Visit:
The state visit between India and the US was filled with symbolism and ceremonial gestures. The national anthems of both countries were played, a 21-gun salute took place, and the US military was present in uniform. Jill Biden, standing alongside the leaders, added to the significance of the occasion. Dignitaries such as Vice President Harris and key officials from both nations attended the event, showcasing the importance given to the bilateral relationship.
Focus on Substantive Outcomes:
Despite protests by some Indian groups outside the White House, both leaders remained focused on achieving substantive outcomes during the visit. President Biden emphasised that the world is at an “inflection point” where decisions taken today will shape the future. He praised India’s participation in the Quad and highlighted joint efforts to address poverty, healthcare, climate crisis, and global challenges caused by conflicts such as the situation in Ukraine.
Transformative Progress in Bilateral Ties:
President Biden recalled his visit to Mumbai 10 years ago, where he envisioned India-US ties improving step by step. He acknowledged the significant progress made in the past decade, including the India-US major defence partnership, economic cooperation, space collaboration, emerging technologies, clean energy initiatives, and India’s G20 presidency. Prime Minister Modi echoed the sentiment, stating that the strategic partnership between India and the US is witnessing bold and ambitious steps across various domains.
Advancing the Strategic Agenda:
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the increasing importance of the India-US bilateral strategic partnership in a changing world. He expressed eagerness to advance the strategic agenda discussed during the restricted meeting in the Oval Office. Both delegations engaged in comprehensive bilateral talks, encompassing key areas of cooperation, with an aim to further strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The India-US summit at the White House showcased the deepening ties between the two nations and the shared commitment to democratic values. With a focus on people-to-people convergence, both leaders recognized the significance of the diaspora and the pivotal role it plays in strengthening bilateral relations. The visit highlighted the transformative progress achieved in various fields and the determination to define the future through a robust strategic partnership.
