PM Modi's state visit to US highlights strengthening India-US relations

New Delhi, June 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a significant state visit to the United States, joining the ranks of only a few world leaders who have received such an invitation from President Joe Biden. This visit highlights the close alliance between India and the US, with a particular focus on enhancing defense ties and promoting trade relations.

One of the anticipated outcomes of the visit is an unprecedented agreement on the transfer of jet engine technology. This deal is expected to facilitate the transfer of cutting-edge GE-F414 jet engine technology to India. There are hopes that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in collaboration with General Electric, will manufacture the engine in India. The GE-F414 engine powers the F/A-18 Hornet, a key fighter aircraft used by the US Navy.

This transfer of technology would be a game-changer for the Indian aviation industry, as it would mark the first time the US has allowed such advanced technology to be shared with another country.

During his three-day visit, PM Modi has a busy schedule that includes several significant events. One highlight is his address to a joint session of the US Congress, which is an exceptional honor bestowed upon him for the second time.

Only a select few individuals, such as Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela, have been given this opportunity in the past. The invitation to speak before Congress was extended by both the House of Representatives and the Senate, emphasizing the significance of this occasion.

Additionally, PM Modi is scheduled to meet with business leaders to discuss investment opportunities and further strengthen economic ties between India and the US.

The Indian diaspora will also have an opportunity to engage with the Prime Minister during his visit, with a gathering planned at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. Moreover, on World Yoga Day, PM Modi will lead a yoga event at the United Nations building, promoting the ancient Indian practice globally.

The visit has garnered immense support from Indian-Americans across the country, who are organizing gatherings at iconic locations such as Times Square in New York and the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to extend a warm welcome to PM Modi. Members of Congress, thought leaders, and people from various walks of life have expressed their enthusiasm for the visit, highlighting the depth of the India-US relationship.

It is worth noting that PM Modi is the third Indian leader to receive a state visit to the US, following the visits of former President Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan in 1963 and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2009. However, being invited by President Biden for a state visit and dinner sets PM Modi apart, emphasising the strong rapport and strategic partnership between India and the US.

Overall, PM Modi's state visit to the United States holds great significance in bolstering India-US defense ties, exploring avenues for trade and investment, and deepening the already strong bond between the two nations. The transfer of jet engine technology and the various engagements planned during the visit will contribute to further strengthening the relationship and fostering collaboration in diverse fields for the mutual benefit of both countries.

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