Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a visit to the United States on June 22, following an invitation from President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. Dismissing apprehensions about the state of democracy in India under Prime Minister Modi, the White House asserted on Monday that India remains a vibrant democracy, inviting skeptics to visit New Delhi and witness the reality for themselves. John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council, emphasized that the US administration is not hesitant to express concerns when needed, even with its allies. “You can do that with friends; you’re supposed to do that with friends,” stated the White House official.
Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming state visit to the US later this month will include a state dinner hosted by President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on June 22, 2023. When questioned about the rationale behind the invitation for the state dinner, Kirby highlighted India’s status as a strong partner across various domains for the United States. He cited recent developments in defense cooperation and robust economic trade between the two countries, as well as India’s role as a member of the Pacific Quad and a trusted friend in Indo-Pacific security. Kirby expressed enthusiasm for the visit, noting the numerous reasons why India’s partnership and friendship hold significance not only bilaterally but also on multilateral platforms.
US Rebuts Concerns over Democracy in India under Modi: Invites Critics to Witness Vibrant New Delhi
Pressed further on whether the Biden administration has concerns about the health of democracy in India, Kirby reiterated that India is indeed a vibrant democracy, inviting anyone visiting New Delhi to witness it firsthand. He emphasized that the strength and well-being of democratic institutions would undoubtedly be part of the discussion during the visit. Kirby reaffirmed that expressing concerns to friends is a natural part of any relationship and highlighted the primary objective of the visit, which is to deepen and strengthen the partnership and friendship between the two nations.
In conclusion, the White House’s stance underscores its confidence in India’s democratic system under Prime Minister Modi. By extending the invitation and encouraging individuals to experience the vibrancy of New Delhi, the US seeks to dispel concerns while emphasizing the importance of the bilateral relationship. The forthcoming visit is viewed as an opportunity to advance collaboration on various fronts and foster a deeper bond between the two nations.
In an effort to address concerns regarding the health of democracy in India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the White House has strongly rebutted such apprehensions, emphasizing that India remains a vibrant democracy. The statement came as Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit the United States later this month, following an invitation from President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden.
US Slams “Alarming State of Democracy” under Modi: “Witness the Harsh Reality in Delhi”
John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council, highlighted that the United States never hesitates to express concerns, even with its allies, stating, “You can do that with friends; you’re supposed to do that with friends.” Kirby further asserted that India is a strong partner to the United States on various levels, including defense cooperation, economic trade, and Indo-Pacific security. He underscored the significance of the bilateral relationship and expressed the US administration’s eagerness to deepen and strengthen the partnership.
The state visit of Prime Minister Modi will include a state dinner hosted by President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, where the leaders will have the opportunity to discuss a wide range of issues. Kirby noted the multitude of reasons why India matters to the United States, not only bilaterally but also on a multilateral level. The visit aims to advance cooperation and foster a deeper friendship between the two nations.
When questioned about concerns over the health of democracy in India, Kirby reaffirmed that India is indeed a vibrant democracy. He invited skeptics to visit New Delhi and witness the democratic principles in action. Kirby emphasized that the strength and health of democratic institutions would be an important part of the discussion during the visit. He further reiterated that expressing concerns to friends is a normal part of any relationship and that the visit aims to deepen the partnership and friendship between the United States and India.
