PM Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to US has many special significance: 10 important points

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in the United States on June 22 for an official state visit. PM Modi is scheduled to visit the US from June 21-24 following an invitation from President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. The visit assumes significance in view of the fact that India-US ties have grown manifold amid concerns of Chinese aggression. Then there is the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine which has serious global consequences. And above all, it is about Indo-US relations that have evolved since PM Modi took over the reins of India in 2014. Since then, the United States has seen the rule of three presidents – Barack Obama, Donald Trump and Joe Biden. PM Modi managed to maintain good relations with all the three leaders. Here are 10 key reasons why PM Modi’s US visit is special:

First Indian PM to address US Congress twice

During his visit, PM Modi will address the joint meeting of the US Congress for the second time and it is indeed historic. He is the first Indian PM to do this twice. Globally, as head of government, PM Modi is second only to Israel’s PM Benjamin Netanyahu, who has done it thrice. Experts say that this honor given to PM Modi reflects the bipartisan respect and support for him in America.

G7 Summit and the Bonhomme

During the G7 summit held in Japan last month, US President Biden went to PM Modi and the two leaders warmly embraced, the picture of which went viral. The friendship displayed by both the leaders is indicative of a successful bilateral relationship. This also shows that the US is increasingly leaning towards India in the Asia-Pacific region.

China threat

The US has shifted its focus from the Asia-Pacific to the Indo-Pacific, giving more importance to India. With China having border disputes with almost all its neighbors except the United States, the US sees an ally in India that can help mitigate the threat posed by the dragon.

Meeting of two greatest democracies

In the words of Atul Keshap, President of the US-India Business Council (USIBC), the meeting between India and the US is the meeting of the two largest democracies on earth. He termed it as a big deal and a powerful signal that the future of the two countries is together. As this is only the third state visit by any leader under the Biden administration, it shows that India is getting closer to the US.

focus on business

India-US trade currently stands at USD 190 billion and the business community and political leadership of both the countries are keen to take it up to USD 500 billion annually. India and the US have potential for trade on other fronts such as e-commerce, supply chain building, digital economy, fintech, energy and aerospace besides defence. PM Modi is also likely to address a gathering at the International Trade Centre.

Defense deals on the cards

A major deal is expected to be signed between General Electric (GE) and Hindustan Aeronautics for domestic manufacturing of American jet engines used in Indian fighter planes during PM Modi’s visit. If this happens, it will be a boost to Make in India. Also, there can be a deal between the US and India to buy 30 MQ-9B armed drones. There is an estimate that the deal will be worth Rs 22,000 crore.

new trust and confidence

President Joe Biden’s top advisor for the Indo-Pacific Curt Campbell has said that while both the United States and India were imperfect democracies and there were still concerns that would be discussed, there is a level of trust and confidence between those countries The one who did this a decade ago doesn’t exist. Campbell’s remarks suggest that India-US relations have become more meaningful than ever under the leadership of PM Modi.

PM Modi will address the overseas Indians

Prime Minister Modi is likely to address a gathering of Indian Americans from across the US on the role of Indian diaspora in India’s growth story in Washington on June 23. The event will be hosted by the US India Community Foundation. Co-organising committee has also been formed.

India and America elections

Next year, both India and the US are gearing up for general elections, as Prime Minister Modi is seeking a third term, and President Joe Biden is aiming for a second term. With the meeting, the two leaders will seek to show their nation’s growing prominence to their citizens. While both leaders will seek to demonstrate their commitment to their respective constituents, it is imperative for President Biden to convince not only his voters but Congress and some of his allies about the importance of strengthening bilateral ties with India. On the other hand, PM Modi will show Indians and the world that under his leadership India is getting more respect globally.

Countering the allegations made by Rahul Gandhi

PM Modi’s visit comes just after Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi’s 10-day visit during which he interacted with various stakeholders including civil society, think tanks and others. During his visit, Rahul Gandhi questioned the state of Indian democracy and PM Modi’s visit and events would be aimed at preventing any possible damage from Gandhi’s statement.