WASHINGTON: US President Joe Biden has announced that he will host India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a state visit on June 22. The visit, which represents the highest level of diplomatic reception at the White House, aims to strengthen the “deep and close partnership” between the two countries, according to a statement released by the White House on Wednesday.
The state visit is expected to reinforce the shared commitment of the United States and India to a “free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific.” Both nations seek to collaborate in the face of China’s increasing assertiveness in the region.
Despite concerns over human rights issues and democratic regression in China, the invitation to Modi highlights the importance of the strategic relationship between the two countries.
This visit marks Modi’s first state visit to the United States. He previously visited the White House in 2021 for the Quad summit, which brought together the leaders of the United States, Australia, Japan, and India.
India requests ceremonial aspects of full state visit
For this visit, India has specifically requested the ceremonial aspects of a full state visit, including a state dinner.
The state visit will serve to strengthen the strategic technology partnership between the United States and India, particularly in defense, clean energy, and space.
The leaders will also discuss expanding educational exchanges and people-to-people ties, as well as collaborating on common challenges such as climate change, workforce development, and health security.
The upcoming state visit reflects the mutual interests and shared objectives of the United States and India. It signals their determination to further enhance their partnership and cooperation across various domains while addressing regional and global challenges together.
