The government reported in the Lok Sabha on Friday that twenty-eight Indian students were deported from the United States to India this year. According to V Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs, the US authorities have been notified on a regular basis of the government's concerns on these kinds of incidents.

28 Indian students deported from US in 2023: Centre tells Lok Sabha

US lawmakers mentioned India for the first time during a discussion on “transnational repression” in the wake of an alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun who had threatened attacks on Air India planes and the Indian Parliament.

The chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday (Dec 6) vowed to introduce legislation to address the concerns of pro-democracy advocates.

During the hearing on “transnational repression and authoritarians targeting dissenters abroad”, several US Senators spoke about New Delhi’s alleged link to conspiring to assassinate Pannun, the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief who has been designated as a terrorist by India.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened at the hearing?</h2>

The senators heard from pro-democracy advocates who called for increased US government efforts to combat efforts by foreign nations to threaten or kill political dissenters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/khalistani-terrorist-gurpatwant-singh-pannun-threatens-to-blow-up-parliament-after-failed-assassination-bid-666712">Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens to blow up Indian Parliament after 'plot' to kill him</a>

Last week, the Department of Justice announced charges against 52-year-old Nikhil Gupta, an Indian citizen who has been accused of orchestrating the attempted murder of Pannun, with an unnamed Indian government employee.

“We’ve seen disturbing allegations against an Indian government official for involvement in planning to assassinate a US citizen in New York who was critical of the Indian government,” said Senator Ben Cardin, chairman of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, as quoted by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).&nbsp;

The “US citizen in New York” that the Democrat from the US state of Maryland was referring to was the Khalistani terrorist who recently also threatened to blow up the Indian Parliament on or before December 13, the anniversary of the 2001 parliament attack, in response to the foiled assassination plot. Pannun says he is a dual citizen of the US and Canada.&nbsp;

In response to Washington’s concerns over the assassination attempt, New Delhi, around mid-November set up a high-level panel which will investigate the allegations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-says-high-level-panel-to-look-into-allegations-after-us-charges-indian-in-plot-to-kill-pannun-664615">&nbsp;India says high-level panel to look into allegations after US charges Indian in 'plot' to kill SFJ's Pannun</a>

During the hearing, Cardin said lawmakers would introduce the International Freedom Protection Act to address the “growing use of transnational oppression by autocratic and illiberal states”.

Tim Kaine, a Democrat from Virginia called the allegations against India for targeting Sikh separatists “highly disturbing” and said this is “not the behaviour of a respectable democracy.”&nbsp;

“We’re dealing with a nation that we have such strong connections to,” Kaine added, saying that New Delhi and Washington have strong military and economic connections and called the Indian American diaspora “an important part of who we are as a country”.&nbsp;

<h2>US should not hesitate</h2>

Freedom House, a pro-democracy non-profit, released a report which found that since 2014, at least 26 nations including China, Iran, Russia and Saudi Arabia have targeted journalists abroad with “transnational repression”.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-row-over-pannun-murder-plot-will-not-impact-larger-washington-delhi-ties-664872">US says row over Pannun murder 'plot' will not impact larger Washington-Delhi ties</a>

The non-profit’s president Michael Abramowitz also appeared before the panel and said that “whether a government engages in transnational oppression should be a factor, a significant factor, determining the nature of bilateral relations and the closeness of any partnership,” as quoted by SCMP.

He also spoke about how Washington should not hesitate to raise the issue “directly at the highest levels” with countries “even when those perpetrators are close partners such as Saudi Arabia and India”.

Since the allegations against an unnamed Indian official’s involvement in the alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist surfaced, the White House has said that the row will not have an impact on larger India-US ties.

(With inputs from agencies)

US lawmakers mentioned India for the first time during a discussion on “transnational repression” in the wake of an alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun who had threatened attacks on Air India planes and the Indian Parliament.

US lawmakers mentioned India for the first time during a discussion on “transnational repression” in the wake of an alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun who had threatened attacks on Air India planes and the Indian Parliament. The chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday (Dec 6) vowed to introduce legislation to address the concerns of pro-democracy advocates. During the hearing on “transnational repression and authoritarians targeting dissenters abroad”, several US Senators spoke about New Delhi’s alleged link to conspiring to assassinate Pannun, the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief who has been designated as a terrorist by India. What happened at the hearing? The senators heard from pro-democracy advocates who called for increased US government efforts to combat efforts by foreign nations to threaten or kill political dissenters. ALSO READ | Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatens to blow up Indian Parliament after 'plot' to kill him Last week, the Department of Justice announced charges against 52-year-old Nikhil Gupta, an Indian citizen who has been accused of orchestrating the attempted murder of Pannun, with an unnamed Indian government employee. “We’ve seen disturbing allegations against an Indian government official for involvement in planning to assassinate a US citizen in New York who was critical of the Indian government,” said Senator Ben Cardin, chairman of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, as quoted by the South China Morning Post (SCMP). The “US citizen in New York” that the Democrat from the US state of Maryland was referring to was the Khalistani terrorist who recently also threatened to blow up the Indian Parliament on or before December 13, the anniversary of the 2001 parliament attack, in response to the foiled assassination plot. Pannun says he is a dual citizen of the US and Canada. In response to Washington’s concerns over the assassination attempt, New Delhi, around mid-November set up a high-level panel which will investigate the allegations. ALSO READ | India says high-level panel to look into allegations after US charges Indian in 'plot' to kill SFJ's Pannun During the hearing, Cardin said lawmakers would introduce the International Freedom Protection Act to address the “growing use of transnational oppression by autocratic and illiberal states”. Tim Kaine, a Democrat from Virginia called the allegations against India for targeting Sikh separatists “highly disturbing” and said this is “not the behaviour of a respectable democracy.” “We’re dealing with a nation that we have such strong connections to,” Kaine added, saying that New Delhi and Washington have strong military and economic connections and called the Indian American diaspora “an important part of who we are as a country”. US should not hesitate Freedom House, a pro-democracy non-profit, released a report which found that since 2014, at least 26 nations including China, Iran, Russia and Saudi Arabia have targeted journalists abroad with “transnational repression”. ALSO READ | US says row over Pannun murder 'plot' will not impact larger Washington-Delhi ties The non-profit’s president Michael Abramowitz also appeared before the panel and said that “whether a government engages in transnational oppression should be a factor, a significant factor, determining the nature of bilateral relations and the closeness of any partnership,” as quoted by SCMP. He also spoke about how Washington should not hesitate to raise the issue “directly at the highest levels” with countries “even when those perpetrators are close partners such as Saudi Arabia and India”. Since the allegations against an unnamed Indian official’s involvement in the alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist surfaced, the White House has said that the row will not have an impact on larger India-US ties. (With inputs from agencies)

India mentioned in US hearing on dissenters being targeted abroad amid 'Pannun murder plot' row

India raised concerns with the United States regarding US ambassador's to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

India flags US envoy’s visit to PoK, says ‘Respect our sovereignty’

Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, said on Wednesday (June 28) that the ties between New Delhi and Washington are accelerating at breathtaking speed and have a future of "boundless opportunities".&nbsp;

Garcetti's comments came just a few days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic State visit to the United States where Indian PM hailed momentous developments in another AI – America and India.&nbsp;

He said that India is a place where dreams become reality every day and both countries have so much in common. "Indian dreams and American dreams are two sides of the same coin...A young boy selling tea grows to lead India on a global stage," he remarked during an address at an event in IIT-Delhi.&nbsp;

Referring to PM Modi's visit and the meetings between both leaders, he said that he saw an "incredible celebration of the bond between the world's two great democracies" and added that he also witnessed the power of transformative friendship. "As PM Modi said, the scope of our cooperation is endless and the chemistry of our relations is effortless," Garcetti said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-relations-with-russia-steady-despite-all-turbulence-jaishankar-609786">Jaishankar says depth of India-Russia relations goes beyond defense dependencie</a>s

Garcetti said India and the US have the power to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. He said, "We have a future of boundless opportunities. We can stand together against coercion; we can stand together for peace."&nbsp;

he said that India conducts more military exercises with the US than with any other country and it is time for both nations to reframe their vision, reset it, and then make it real.&nbsp;

He weighed in on a range of issues, including human rights. Garcetti said the US will continue to engage with India on it "as we have always done, and as we do in all countries around the world".&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian-manufacturer uses toxic substances in cough syrup&nbsp;

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He also quoted Mahatma Gandhi: "Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and test of our civilisation" and also added that the US and India together can build a bulwark against the "might makes right" mentality.&nbsp;

"As Vice President (Kamala) Harris said last week, reflecting on the lessons her grandfather, who helped fight for India's independence taught her, we must not only have democracy, but work to defend democracy," he said.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-dhruv-advanced-light-helicopter-safety-flaws-addressed-says-report-609658">Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter safety flaws addressed, says report</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Eric Garcetti's comments on defence&nbsp;</h2>

He said, "I hope soon we'll see the United States and India working together across the Pacific and into the Atlantic, from Central Asia to Southern Africa."&nbsp;

While mentioning the defence production, he said: "When the US and India work together to co-produce military equipment, we create a state-of-the-art system at a sustainable cost and with resilient supply chains for India, the US, and our partners."&nbsp;

"Through the co-production work that is already happening in airframes and engineering, and the planned work in aero engines, artillery, and ground vehicles, to name just a few, we are poised to further deepen co-production and tackle new opportunities -- some that we can't even imagine today," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, said on Wednesday (June 28) that the ties between New Delhi and Washington are accelerating at breathtaking speed and have a future of "boundless opportunities".

Eric Garcetti, the US Ambassador to India, said on Wednesday (June 28) that the ties between New Delhi and Washington are accelerating at breathtaking speed and have a future of "boundless opportunities". Garcetti's comments came just a few days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic State visit to the United States where Indian PM hailed momentous developments in another AI – America and India. He said that India is a place where dreams become reality every day and both countries have so much in common. "Indian dreams and American dreams are two sides of the same coin...A young boy selling tea grows to lead India on a global stage," he remarked during an address at an event in IIT-Delhi. Referring to PM Modi's visit and the meetings between both leaders, he said that he saw an "incredible celebration of the bond between the world's two great democracies" and added that he also witnessed the power of transformative friendship. "As PM Modi said, the scope of our cooperation is endless and the chemistry of our relations is effortless," Garcetti said. Also read: Jaishankar says depth of India-Russia relations goes beyond defense dependencies Garcetti said India and the US have the power to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. He said, "We have a future of boundless opportunities. We can stand together against coercion; we can stand together for peace." he said that India conducts more military exercises with the US than with any other country and it is time for both nations to reframe their vision, reset it, and then make it real. He weighed in on a range of issues, including human rights. Garcetti said the US will continue to engage with India on it "as we have always done, and as we do in all countries around the world". Watch: Indian-manufacturer uses toxic substances in cough syrup × He also quoted Mahatma Gandhi: "Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and test of our civilisation" and also added that the US and India together can build a bulwark against the "might makes right" mentality. "As Vice President (Kamala) Harris said last week, reflecting on the lessons her grandfather, who helped fight for India's independence taught her, we must not only have democracy, but work to defend democracy," he said. Also read: Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter safety flaws addressed, says report Eric Garcetti's comments on defence He said, "I hope soon we'll see the United States and India working together across the Pacific and into the Atlantic, from Central Asia to Southern Africa." While mentioning the defence production, he said: "When the US and India work together to co-produce military equipment, we create a state-of-the-art system at a sustainable cost and with resilient supply chains for India, the US, and our partners." "Through the co-production work that is already happening in airframes and engineering, and the planned work in aero engines, artillery, and ground vehicles, to name just a few, we are poised to further deepen co-production and tackle new opportunities -- some that we can't even imagine today," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Eric Garcetti says India and US have future of boundless opportunities

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome at the White House on Thursday (June 22), with a 19-gun salute and the national anthem of both nations being played.&nbsp;

PM Modi is currently on a State visit to the United States. He has been to the US five times since taking oath as the prime minister in 2014, but this trip is his first with the full diplomatic status of a state visit.&nbsp;

PM Modi and Biden hailed a "defining partnership" with a focus on both nations to improve and deepen relations with forward-focused future-oriented talks. They sealed major deals in various sectors, including defence, technology, space collaboration, and more.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/ge-aerospace-signs-mou-with-hal-for-production-of-fighter-jet-engines-for-iaf-607330">'Historic agreement': GE Aerospace signs MoU with HAL for production of fighter jet engines for IAF</a>&nbsp;

As he began his address, PM Modi thanked Biden and the First Lady Jill Biden. He said, "I would like to express gratitude for your warm welcome and far-sighted remarks."&nbsp;

He also mentioned the gathering of Indian-American people outside the White House, who&nbsp;chanted&nbsp;'Modi, Modi'. He said, "Three decades ago, I came to America as a normal citizen and saw the White House from the outside. Since then I came here so many times, but the White House's gates have been&nbsp;opened for so many Indian Americans for the first time."&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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PM Modi was greeted by around 7,000 Indian Americans when he arrived on the South Lawn of the White House, wearing a flowing white kurta with a sky-blue jacket.&nbsp;

When PM Modi reached the White House, the US delegation, led by Vice President Kamala Harris, was there. The Indian delegation was led by Indian foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, FS Vinay Kwatra and Indian ambassador to the US Taranjit Sandhu.

While welcoming PM Modi, Biden said, "I have long believed that the relationship between the US and India will be one of the most defining relationships of the 21st century. The challenges and opportunities facing the world in this century require that India and the United States work and lead together."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indias-pm-modi-sets-techade-agenda-for-2020s-607153">India's PM Modi sets 'techade' agenda for making 2020s a transformative era in technology sector</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Crucial deals inked</h2>

GE Aerospace announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to produce its F414 engines for the Indian Air Force.&nbsp;

As mentioned in the report, a US official said India would also buy MQ-9B SeaGuardians, high-precision armed drones. India in 2019 broke precedent with an airstrike in Pakistani territory against an alleged extremist camp.&nbsp;

Washington hopes a tighter defence relationship will help wean India off Russia, New Delhi's primary military supplier during the Cold War.&nbsp;

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome at the White House on Thursday (June 22), with a 19-gun salute and the national anthem of both nations being played.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome at the White House on Thursday (June 22), with a 19-gun salute and the national anthem of both nations being played. PM Modi is currently on a State visit to the United States. He has been to the US five times since taking oath as the prime minister in 2014, but this trip is his first with the full diplomatic status of a state visit. PM Modi and Biden hailed a "defining partnership" with a focus on both nations to improve and deepen relations with forward-focused future-oriented talks. They sealed major deals in various sectors, including defence, technology, space collaboration, and more. Also read: 'Historic agreement': GE Aerospace signs MoU with HAL for production of fighter jet engines for IAF As he began his address, PM Modi thanked Biden and the First Lady Jill Biden. He said, "I would like to express gratitude for your warm welcome and far-sighted remarks." He also mentioned the gathering of Indian-American people outside the White House, who chanted 'Modi, Modi'. He said, "Three decades ago, I came to America as a normal citizen and saw the White House from the outside. Since then I came here so many times, but the White House's gates have been opened for so many Indian Americans for the first time." Watch this report: × PM Modi was greeted by around 7,000 Indian Americans when he arrived on the South Lawn of the White House, wearing a flowing white kurta with a sky-blue jacket. When PM Modi reached the White House, the US delegation, led by Vice President Kamala Harris, was there. The Indian delegation was led by Indian foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, FS Vinay Kwatra and Indian ambassador to the US Taranjit Sandhu. While welcoming PM Modi, Biden said, "I have long believed that the relationship between the US and India will be one of the most defining relationships of the 21st century. The challenges and opportunities facing the world in this century require that India and the United States work and lead together." Also read: India's PM Modi sets 'techade' agenda for making 2020s a transformative era in technology sector Crucial deals inked GE Aerospace announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to produce its F414 engines for the Indian Air Force. As mentioned in the report, a US official said India would also buy MQ-9B SeaGuardians, high-precision armed drones. India in 2019 broke precedent with an airstrike in Pakistani territory against an alleged extremist camp. Washington hopes a tighter defence relationship will help wean India off Russia, New Delhi's primary military supplier during the Cold War. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India-US ties: PM Modi and Biden hail 'most defining relationship of 21st century'

One of the major discussions going to take place between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden during the former’s visit to Washington would be on the joint manufacturing of fighter jet engines.

According to Bloomberg, India and the US are close to signing a military deal that would allow them to jointly develop fighter jet engines.

The report states that the White House is on the verge of clearing the proposal from General Electric Co. (GE), the Massachusetts-based aerospace manufacturing giant, to produce the engines with state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. for the Tejas light-combat aircraft.

The jet engine agreement, which would require technology transfer from America, will need approval from the US Congress, which India hopes to tilt the scale in its favour on the backdrop of China’s rising assertiveness and growing relations between the two.

The production of GE engines is expected to boost India's fighter jet programme and its air force, whose fleet of rapidly ageing Russian fighters needs to be replaced.

The move is also expected to strengthen Modi's image as he looks at a third term in office in national elections next year. The PM will start&nbsp;his first formal state visit on June 21. Biden will host him for a state banquet, and the Indian premiere will also address the US Congress.&nbsp;

<h2>India’s defence ministry to take up SeaGuardian drone deal</h2>

India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) will also take up the deal to finalise SeaGuardian drone deal later today (Thursday).

Top defence ministry and military brass, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, will attend the meeting. Other 'Made in India' defence deals are also on the agenda of the meeting, defence officials told WION.

The procurement project will undergo "acceptance of necessity" (AoN) by DAC. Subsequently, a Letter of Request will be issued to the US administration, followed by their response through a Letter of Offer and Acceptance, which requires notification to the US Congress.

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The US had asked India to show progress on the deal for as many as 30&nbsp;MQ-9B SeaGuardian (also called Reaper) drones made by General Atomics,&nbsp;two sources&nbsp;told&nbsp;Reuters.

India had earlier used two MQ 9B drones, borrowing from the US, after the border tensions with China flared in the summer of 2020, according to Bloomberg.

The development comes as National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and his US counterpart Jake Sullivan held a bilateral meeting in Delhi on Wednesday.

Sullivan is on a two-day trip to India at the invitation of Doval.

The drones' deal could not take off soon as it remained stuck due to bureaucratic red tape for years.

Moreover, the two countries are also expected to discuss jointly building the eight-wheeled armoured personnel carrier — Stryker — in India. 
 
(With inputs from agencies 
 
 
&nbsp;

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One of the major discussions going to take place between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden during the former’s visit to Washington would be on the joint manufacturing of fighter jet engines.

One of the major discussions going to take place between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden during the former’s visit to Washington would be on the joint manufacturing of fighter jet engines. According to Bloomberg, India and the US are close to signing a military deal that would allow them to jointly develop fighter jet engines. The report states that the White House is on the verge of clearing the proposal from General Electric Co. (GE), the Massachusetts-based aerospace manufacturing giant, to produce the engines with state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. for the Tejas light-combat aircraft. The jet engine agreement, which would require technology transfer from America, will need approval from the US Congress, which India hopes to tilt the scale in its favour on the backdrop of China’s rising assertiveness and growing relations between the two. The production of GE engines is expected to boost India's fighter jet programme and its air force, whose fleet of rapidly ageing Russian fighters needs to be replaced. The move is also expected to strengthen Modi's image as he looks at a third term in office in national elections next year. The PM will start his first formal state visit on June 21. Biden will host him for a state banquet, and the Indian premiere will also address the US Congress. India’s defence ministry to take up SeaGuardian drone deal India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) will also take up the deal to finalise SeaGuardian drone deal later today (Thursday). Top defence ministry and military brass, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, will attend the meeting. Other 'Made in India' defence deals are also on the agenda of the meeting, defence officials told WION. The procurement project will undergo "acceptance of necessity" (AoN) by DAC. Subsequently, a Letter of Request will be issued to the US administration, followed by their response through a Letter of Offer and Acceptance, which requires notification to the US Congress. The US had asked India to show progress on the deal for as many as 30 MQ-9B SeaGuardian (also called Reaper) drones made by General Atomics, two sources told Reuters. India had earlier used two MQ 9B drones, borrowing from the US, after the border tensions with China flared in the summer of 2020, according to Bloomberg. The development comes as National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and his US counterpart Jake Sullivan held a bilateral meeting in Delhi on Wednesday. Sullivan is on a two-day trip to India at the invitation of Doval. The drones' deal could not take off soon as it remained stuck due to bureaucratic red tape for years. Moreover, the two countries are also expected to discuss jointly building the eight-wheeled armoured personnel carrier — Stryker — in India. (With inputs from agencies WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India, US on verge of finalising deal to jointly produce fighter jet engines: Report

Defence ministers of India and the United States recently announced an enhanced defence partnership known as INDUS-X, and we will soon witness India’s new defence roadmap.

Defence ministers of India and the United States recently announced an enhanced defence partnership known as INDUS-X, and we will soon witness India’s new defence roadmap. But there is an irony here. While the US is preparing to offer its cutting-edge weapons technology to India, it hopes to use India itself as a weapon because India is the silver bullet the U.S. needs. First, let’s look at how the deal will benefit India. BOOSTING INDIA’S AIR PROWESS India and the US are on the verge of signing a mega defence deal to jointly manufacture indigenous jet engines, under which the GE-F414 fighter-jet engine will soon be made in India. This is the same engine used in the Boeing Super Hornets and Gripen fighter jets. With an estimated thrust of 98 kN, it will power India’s highly-anticipated LCA TEJAS Mk2 and other advanced aircraft in the future. Also read | India, a NATO state? Whose gain, whose loss? Under the deal, there are also talks of the US MQ-9 reaper drones being fast-tracked to India. This is the same drone that the US used to assassinate Iran's military general Qasem Soleimani and former al-Qaeda Chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri at his home in Kabul, Afghanistan. After aviation engines, the India-US partnership will eventually extend to engines powering Indian military ships along with air combat, land mobility systems, intelligence, surveillance, munitions, and the undersea domains. Watch this report: × BOOMING DEMAND for TEJAS Mk2 India's LCA Tejas Mk 2, along with the F414 engine will replace India’s ageing MiG-29, Mirage-2000s, and Jaguars. The Mk2 variant of Tejas will be armed with weapons like the Scalp, Crystal Maze, and Spice-2000. For air-to-air combat, it will be armed with the indigenous Astra Mark 1 and Mark 2 missiles and will be capable of carrying about 8-10 BVR (beyond visual range) missiles. From Malaysia to Argentina, a total of 16 countries have already approached India to seek details of the Tejas Mk2. THE SILVER BULLET US NEEDS The US is not leaving any stone unturned to pursue India, and why won’t they? Given India’s massive defence spending, which is majorly benefiting Russia at the moment, the US definitely wants a piece of the pie for its own gains and to cut off Russia. Currently, 45% of India’s defence imports are from Russia while a mere 11% are American. The other reason is India’s strategic location and control in the Indo-Pacific region where the US is desperately trying to establish itself, to counter its arch-rival China. "India is now one of our premier security partners in the Indo-Pacific," said Major General Julian C. Cheater, US Air Force during Aero India 2023. Also read | F-16 fighter jet coalition: Is the West preparing Ukraine for a suicide mission? For these two factors, it is absolutely crucial for the US to have India on its side, because in spite of all of America’s advanced weapons and technologies - India is the only silver bullet with which the US can target both Russia and China in a single shot. Nothing comes for free in the geopolitical chess game, and the US is doing no favours to India by offering cutting-edge technologies. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The truth behind America's extended defence cooperation with India

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met on Monday (April 11) and exchanged views on the current global situation and discussed bilateral cooperation.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met on Monday (April 11) and exchanged views on the current global situation and discussed bilateral cooperation. Jaishankar and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are in the United States for the India-US 2+2 ministerial dialogue which was held on Monday. Taking to his Twitter account, Jaishankar wrote: "Began the day with a breakfast meeting with @SecBlinken. Wide ranging exchange of views on the global situation, regional hotspots and bilateral cooperation. Took place with the comfort and openness of true strategic partners." Jaishankar said that the 2+2 Dialogue would enable both sides to undertake a comprehensive review of cross-cutting issues in the India-US bilateral agenda related to foreign policy. The talks will also strengthen defence and security with the objective of providing strategic guidance and a vision for further consolidating the relationship. "The 2+2 Dialogue will also provide an opportunity to exchange views about important regional and global developments and how we can work together to address issues of common interest and concern," he said. This 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and US is the first under the Biden administration being hosted by Blinken and US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin. Meanwhile, Blinken said, "These 2+2 meetings have already played a key role in strengthening our bilateral relationship...Today's discussions will build upon previous productive meetings that we've had. It's a momentous moment in global affairs." Blinken added, "Today, we'll discuss pressing issues, shared global challenges - incl Russia's war against Ukraine, ending COVID-19 pandemic, climate crisis, upholding a free, open democratic, secure & prosperous Indo-Pacific Region." US will stand by India Austin assured India that the US will continue to stand by it in the face of threats from China. He said, "Beijing is eroding the security of the Indo-Pacific region from its construction of dual-use infrastructure along your border to its unlawful claims in the South China Sea, and we will continue to stand alongside you as you defend your sovereign interest." Austin hailed the India-US 2+2 dialogue and said that they were meeting "at a critical moment in the US-India defence partnership". He said: "Our partnership is based on a shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, one grounded in principles such as the rule of law and national sovereignty. We`re facing urgent and mounting challenges to this shared vision." "China is attempting to challenge and undermine the sovereignty of its neighbours," he said. Rajnath Singh, who was greeted by an honour guard at the Pentagon, did not mention China or Russia in his response, which was in Hindi with English language interpretation. He said that "our visit here shall take India-US comprehensive strategic partnership to the next level". He added, "Major defence partnership is one of the most important pillars of India-US strategic relations. India has critical roles to play in Indian Ocean Region&wider Indo-Pacific following Act East and Neighbourhood First policies." Modi-Biden virtual meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden discussed Ukraine during the virtual meet on Monday. The two leaders had an extensive exchange of views on several regional and global issues, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, global economic recovery, climate action, recent developments in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific region, and the situation in Ukraine. WATCH | Gravitas: The growing challenges in India's neighbourhood ×

India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs

The United States on Monday (April 11) said that energy imports are not banned from Russia and India is not violating any sanctions by purchasing energy from Moscow.&nbsp;

The remarks were made during a White House press briefing after US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting and discussed several issues.&nbsp;

"This was a constructive call, it was a productive call. It's a relationship that is vitally important to the United States and to the president. I would not see it as an adversarial call," said the White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki during Monday's news conference.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-22-dialogue-a-momentous-moment-in-global-affairs-470362">India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs</a>

On being asked whether Biden has urged&nbsp;India to limit importing Russian energy, Psaki said, "Energy imports are not banned and they don't violate our sanctions. We certainly recognise that every country is going to take a step in their interest."&nbsp;

However, she added that Biden has told PM Modi that it was not in India's interest to increase its imports of energy from Russia. She added, "I will let Prime Minister Modi and Indians speak on that. It's only 1-2 per cent at this point in time, they export 10 per cent from the United States. It is no violation of any sanctions or anything along those lines."&nbsp;

Following Western sanctions on Russian entities in the wake of the Ukraine war, India purchased at least 13 million barrels of Russian crude oil at a discounted rate.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-desires-peace-and-stability-pm-modi-congratulates-newly-elected-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-470328">'India desires peace and stability': PM Modi congratulates newly elected Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif</a>

Psaki also mentioned other aspects related to India's response&nbsp;and the humanitarian support&nbsp;it has provided to Ukraine amid the ongoing war.

She said the US has seen India speak out more forcefully against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, particularly "as it relates to the horrific photos that we saw around Bucha".&nbsp;

"We have seen them to take steps to provide humanitarian assistance and a range of assistance, but it is something we always encourage leaders to do - to speak out, to be vocal, to ensure they are on the right side of history," she said.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden

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(With inputs from agencies)

The United States on Monday (April 11) said that energy imports are not banned from Russia and India is not violating any sanctions by purchasing energy from Moscow.

The United States on Monday (April 11) said that energy imports are not banned from Russia and India is not violating any sanctions by purchasing energy from Moscow. The remarks were made during a White House press briefing after US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual meeting and discussed several issues. "This was a constructive call, it was a productive call. It's a relationship that is vitally important to the United States and to the president. I would not see it as an adversarial call," said the White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki during Monday's news conference. ALSO READ | India-US 2+2 dialogue a 'momentous moment' in global affairs On being asked whether Biden has urged India to limit importing Russian energy, Psaki said, "Energy imports are not banned and they don't violate our sanctions. We certainly recognise that every country is going to take a step in their interest." However, she added that Biden has told PM Modi that it was not in India's interest to increase its imports of energy from Russia. She added, "I will let Prime Minister Modi and Indians speak on that. It's only 1-2 per cent at this point in time, they export 10 per cent from the United States. It is no violation of any sanctions or anything along those lines." Following Western sanctions on Russian entities in the wake of the Ukraine war, India purchased at least 13 million barrels of Russian crude oil at a discounted rate. ALSO READ | 'India desires peace and stability': PM Modi congratulates newly elected Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Psaki also mentioned other aspects related to India's response and the humanitarian support it has provided to Ukraine amid the ongoing war. She said the US has seen India speak out more forcefully against Russia's invasion of Ukraine, particularly "as it relates to the horrific photos that we saw around Bucha". "We have seen them to take steps to provide humanitarian assistance and a range of assistance, but it is something we always encourage leaders to do - to speak out, to be vocal, to ensure they are on the right side of history," she said. WATCH | Gravitas: Ukraine invasion: What Modi told Biden × (With inputs from agencies)

US says India not violating any sanctions by importing Russian oil

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Joe Biden held virtual talks on Monday (April 11) and discussed a range of issues. However, the main topic remained the Russia and Ukraine war.&nbsp;

PM Modi said, "Today, our interaction is being held at a time when the situation in Ukraine is a matter of concern. A few weeks back, over 20,000 Indians were stranded in Ukraine, most of them were young students."&nbsp;

Calling for the de-escalation of the Russia-Ukraine situation and progressing toward a path of peace, PM Modi said, "I have spoken with Presidents of both Ukraine and Russia over the telephone, several times. I not only appealed to them for peace but also suggested President Putin hold direct talks with the Ukrainian President."&nbsp;

PM Modi also said that India has sent medicines and other relief materials to Ukraine and other neighbouring nations. Further, on the demand of Ukraine, the Indian government is sending another consignment of medicines soon.&nbsp;

PM Modi also said that detailed discussions over the Russia-Ukraine conflict were held in the Indian Parliament, where the reports of killing innocent citizens in Bucha city were immediately condemned. He said that India had supported an impartial probe.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US President said, "I am pleased to have this opportunity to speak to you virtually today and with two of your ministers and your ambassador."

"We take same concerns about the global challenges we faced during Covid-19, advancing health securities and tracking economic crisis," Biden added.&nbsp;

The Biden-Modi&nbsp;meeting will precede a meeting between US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken, US&nbsp;Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, the White House said.&nbsp;

Biden told&nbsp;Modi&nbsp;he is looking forward to seeing him in Japan "on about the 24th of May."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;India-US 2+2 ministerial meeting: Focus on improving bilateral ties and&nbsp;cooperation in Asia

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Joe Biden held virtual talks on Monday (April 11) and discussed a range of issues. However, the main topic remained the Russia and Ukraine war.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Joe Biden held virtual talks on Monday (April 11) and discussed a range of issues. However, the main topic remained the Russia and Ukraine war. PM Modi said, "Today, our interaction is being held at a time when the situation in Ukraine is a matter of concern. A few weeks back, over 20,000 Indians were stranded in Ukraine, most of them were young students." Calling for the de-escalation of the Russia-Ukraine situation and progressing toward a path of peace, PM Modi said, "I have spoken with Presidents of both Ukraine and Russia over the telephone, several times. I not only appealed to them for peace but also suggested President Putin hold direct talks with the Ukrainian President." PM Modi also said that India has sent medicines and other relief materials to Ukraine and other neighbouring nations. Further, on the demand of Ukraine, the Indian government is sending another consignment of medicines soon. PM Modi also said that detailed discussions over the Russia-Ukraine conflict were held in the Indian Parliament, where the reports of killing innocent citizens in Bucha city were immediately condemned. He said that India had supported an impartial probe. Meanwhile, US President said, "I am pleased to have this opportunity to speak to you virtually today and with two of your ministers and your ambassador." "We take same concerns about the global challenges we faced during Covid-19, advancing health securities and tracking economic crisis," Biden added. The Biden-Modi meeting will precede a meeting between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, the White House said. Biden told Modi he is looking forward to seeing him in Japan "on about the 24th of May." WATCH | India-US 2+2 ministerial meeting: Focus on improving bilateral ties and cooperation in Asia ×

Narendra Modi and Joe Biden hold virtual talks, discuss Russia-Ukraine war and other issues

Defence and sovereignty are important for India as it is a developing country.

Both India and the West have expressed concerns over China's advancement in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Indo-Pacific region.

In the scenario of a global conflict counter mechanisms can save India from severe complications.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-naval-academy-inside-look-at-asias-largest-naval-academy-the-cradle-of-indias-future-naval-leadership-434858" hreflang="en">Inside look at Asia’s largest Naval Academy, the cradle of India’s future naval leadership</a>

Where are India's overseas military bases located?

India does not have any military bases in the western hemisphere.

However, it has signed several bilateral agreements with the US to use its military bases and vice-versa.

It can use the military base of the US under the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA).

Both countries can use designated military facilities for refueling and replenishment under the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA).

It covers four areas, including port calls, joint exercises, training, and humanitarian assistance along with disaster relief.

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/despite-rafale-why-is-india-still-boosting-its-mirage-2000-squadron-432311" hreflang="en">Despite Rafale, why is India still boosting its Mirage 2000 squadron?</a>

Under the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement, India is allowed to procure specialised equipment for encrypted communications existing on C-17, C-130, P-81s like US-origin platforms. This agreement gives India access to advanced defence systems as well.

US and India had signed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement in 2020 which allows New Delhi to have real-time access to American Geospatial Intelligence. It will increase the accuracy of missiles and armed drones.

India is also discussing military pacts and logistics with Russia, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam.&nbsp;

If the pact with Russia gets signed, India will get access to Russian facilities in the Arctic region which will further increase the availability of shipping routes and resources.

It has signed a pact with other member countries of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) including the US, Japan and Australia to get access to the military logistics of any concerned country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-releases-propaganda-video-of-galwan-valley-clash-364969">Also read |&nbsp;China releases propaganda video of Galwan Valley clash</a>

In 2002, India had built its first military base in Tajikistan. The negotiations of this base had been initiated by the Research and Analysis Wing (R&amp;AW).&nbsp;

Previously, it was used to provide military supplies to the Afghan Northern Alliance and intelligence gathering. 
&nbsp; 
Known as Farkhor Air Base, India's military is stationed here and it controls this base along with the Tajikistan military.&nbsp;

It is strategically important as it provides depth and range in Central Asia.&nbsp;

India has control over the Chabahar port in Iran which acts as a gateway between Afghanistan and Central Asia.It also resolves connectivity issues in the Indian Ocean. &nbsp;

China's increasing funding to the Gwadar port in Pakistan has become a cause of concern for India, as this port along with Chabahar port are often called ''sister ports.''

After Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Iran, Beijing has signed a $400 billion deal with Tehran.

India has modernised its military base in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands which are located near the Strait of Malacca. Through it, India can counter southeast Asia and the South China Sea.

According to the Sasakawa Peace Foundation in the US, India has also developed naval surveillance facilities in Mauritius and Madagascar.

India had leased Agalega Island from Mauritius in 2015 and built a military base worth an estimated value of $87 million.

It has expedited the annual touring of all bases in the Indian Ocean with a small division of ships. From 2014 to 2015, Indian naval ships toured 50 countries in this region.

In 2018, India signed an agreement with the government of Seychelles to build a joint military base on the Assumption.

To counter China, India is increasing its presence from the Pacific Ocean to the Arctic Ocean. However, it needs to increase military bases rather than just signing agreements with other countries.

Defence and sovereignty are important for India as it is a developing country. Both India and the West have expressed concerns over China's advancement in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Indo-Pacific region.

Defence and sovereignty are important for India as it is a developing country. Both India and the West have expressed concerns over China's advancement in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Indo-Pacific region. In the scenario of a global conflict counter mechanisms can save India from severe complications. Also see | Inside look at Asia’s largest Naval Academy, the cradle of India’s future naval leadership Where are India's overseas military bases located? India does not have any military bases in the western hemisphere. However, it has signed several bilateral agreements with the US to use its military bases and vice-versa. It can use the military base of the US under the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA). Both countries can use designated military facilities for refueling and replenishment under the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA). It covers four areas, including port calls, joint exercises, training, and humanitarian assistance along with disaster relief. Also see | Despite Rafale, why is India still boosting its Mirage 2000 squadron? Under the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement, India is allowed to procure specialised equipment for encrypted communications existing on C-17, C-130, P-81s like US-origin platforms. This agreement gives India access to advanced defence systems as well. US and India had signed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement in 2020 which allows New Delhi to have real-time access to American Geospatial Intelligence. It will increase the accuracy of missiles and armed drones. India is also discussing military pacts and logistics with Russia, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam. If the pact with Russia gets signed, India will get access to Russian facilities in the Arctic region which will further increase the availability of shipping routes and resources. It has signed a pact with other member countries of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) including the US, Japan and Australia to get access to the military logistics of any concerned country. Also read | China releases propaganda video of Galwan Valley clash In 2002, India had built its first military base in Tajikistan. The negotiations of this base had been initiated by the Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW). Previously, it was used to provide military supplies to the Afghan Northern Alliance and intelligence gathering. Known as Farkhor Air Base, India's military is stationed here and it controls this base along with the Tajikistan military. It is strategically important as it provides depth and range in Central Asia. India has control over the Chabahar port in Iran which acts as a gateway between Afghanistan and Central Asia.It also resolves connectivity issues in the Indian Ocean. China's increasing funding to the Gwadar port in Pakistan has become a cause of concern for India, as this port along with Chabahar port are often called ''sister ports.'' After Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Iran, Beijing has signed a $400 billion deal with Tehran. India has modernised its military base in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands which are located near the Strait of Malacca. Through it, India can counter southeast Asia and the South China Sea. According to the Sasakawa Peace Foundation in the US, India has also developed naval surveillance facilities in Mauritius and Madagascar. India had leased Agalega Island from Mauritius in 2015 and built a military base worth an estimated value of $87 million. It has expedited the annual touring of all bases in the Indian Ocean with a small division of ships. From 2014 to 2015, Indian naval ships toured 50 countries in this region. In 2018, India signed an agreement with the government of Seychelles to build a joint military base on the Assumption. To counter China, India is increasing its presence from the Pacific Ocean to the Arctic Ocean. However, it needs to increase military bases rather than just signing agreements with other countries.

What is the strategic significance of India's military bases in foreign countries?

US President Joe Biden's statements slapping at US media for asking questions that aren't 'on topic' in front of a foreign head of state were defended by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, who said his words weren't meant as a 'hard cut' on them.

Jen Psaki was grilled by the media on Monday about Biden's remarks to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which he advised his counterpart not to answer questions and appeared to attack US journalists.&nbsp; 
 
IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-pm-modi-us-president-joe-biden-hold-first-in-person-meet-in-white-house-ahead-of-quad-leaders-summit-415651">PM Modi, US President Joe Biden hold first in person meet in White House</a>

"I think what he said is that they’re not always "on point." Now, I know that it isn’t something that anyone wants to hear here. But what I think he was conveying is, you know, today, he might want to talk about Covid vaccines; some of the questions were about that. He might want to talk about something else, and some of the questions are not always about the topic he’s talking about that day, " Psaki said.

"I don’t think it was meant to be a hard cut at the members of the media – people he has taken questions from today and on Friday as well," she said. 
 
What exactly happened:

While sitting in the Oval Office with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 24, President Biden took a jab at the American press.

"The Indian press is much better behaved than the American press.I think, with your permission, you could not answer questions because they won’t ask any questions on point," Biden began on Friday as they sat down. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-indian-pm-narendra-modi-receives-warm-welcome-by-joe-biden-video-wins-hearts-415646">Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts</a>

According to Reporters Without Borders, India is ranked 142nd in the world when it comes to press freedom, and the US is ranked 44th in the world.

To this, Psaki said, "I would just say to you that having now worked for the President, serving in this role for nine months, having seen that he's taking questions from the press more than 140 times, that he certainly respects the role of the press, the freedom of the free press."

"We ensure that we have a press with us, of course, when we travel; that we have a press with us for sprays in foreign capitals; and we will continue to. And I think that should speak to his commitment to freedom of the press around the world, " she said. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-ts-indian-pm-narendra-modi-redefines-contours-of-ties-at-summit-with-us-president-joe-biden-415677">'5 Ts': Indian PM Narendra Modi redefines contours of ties at summit with US president Joe Biden</a>

In the past, Biden has lauded the importance of reporters and journalism, but he has also expressed dissatisfaction with the coverage of him and his administration, as well as the questions he is asked while interacting with the press.

Biden was sitting in the Oval Office with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi in late July when NBC's Kelly O'Donnell questioned him about Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough's declaration that frontline VA personnel would have to undergo Covid-19 vaccines.

"You are such a pain in the neck," Biden replied, smiling, "but I'm going to answer your question because we've known each other for so long."&nbsp;

"It has nothing to do with Iraq … I’ll answer your question. Yes, Veteran Affairs is going to, in fact, require that all doctors working in their facilities are going to have to be vaccinated," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden's statements slapping at US media for asking questions that aren't 'on topic' in front of a foreign head of state were defended by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, who said his words weren't meant as a 'hard cut' on them.

US President Joe Biden's statements slapping at US media for asking questions that aren't 'on topic' in front of a foreign head of state were defended by White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, who said his words weren't meant as a 'hard cut' on them. Jen Psaki was grilled by the media on Monday about Biden's remarks to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in which he advised his counterpart not to answer questions and appeared to attack US journalists. IN PICS | PM Modi, US President Joe Biden hold first in person meet in White House "I think what he said is that they’re not always "on point." Now, I know that it isn’t something that anyone wants to hear here. But what I think he was conveying is, you know, today, he might want to talk about Covid vaccines; some of the questions were about that. He might want to talk about something else, and some of the questions are not always about the topic he’s talking about that day, " Psaki said. "I don’t think it was meant to be a hard cut at the members of the media – people he has taken questions from today and on Friday as well," she said. What exactly happened: While sitting in the Oval Office with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 24, President Biden took a jab at the American press. "The Indian press is much better behaved than the American press.I think, with your permission, you could not answer questions because they won’t ask any questions on point," Biden began on Friday as they sat down. Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts According to Reporters Without Borders, India is ranked 142nd in the world when it comes to press freedom, and the US is ranked 44th in the world. To this, Psaki said, "I would just say to you that having now worked for the President, serving in this role for nine months, having seen that he's taking questions from the press more than 140 times, that he certainly respects the role of the press, the freedom of the free press." "We ensure that we have a press with us, of course, when we travel; that we have a press with us for sprays in foreign capitals; and we will continue to. And I think that should speak to his commitment to freedom of the press around the world, " she said. ALSO READ | '5 Ts': Indian PM Narendra Modi redefines contours of ties at summit with US president Joe Biden In the past, Biden has lauded the importance of reporters and journalism, but he has also expressed dissatisfaction with the coverage of him and his administration, as well as the questions he is asked while interacting with the press. Biden was sitting in the Oval Office with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi in late July when NBC's Kelly O'Donnell questioned him about Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough's declaration that frontline VA personnel would have to undergo Covid-19 vaccines. "You are such a pain in the neck," Biden replied, smiling, "but I'm going to answer your question because we've known each other for so long." "It has nothing to do with Iraq … I’ll answer your question. Yes, Veteran Affairs is going to, in fact, require that all doctors working in their facilities are going to have to be vaccinated," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Indian media is 'better behaved' than the US': White House defends Biden's statement

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Joe Biden on Friday (September 24) held their first bilateral in-person meeting since the latter assumed office.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Joe Biden on Friday (September 24) held their first bilateral in-person meeting since the latter assumed office. During the meeting, which took place at the Oval Office in the White House, both the leaders discussed progress in ties and issues related to trade, COVID-19, climate change and stability in the Indo-Pacific. WATCH | Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts PM Modi thanked the US President for a warm welcome to him and the Indian delegation. He said, "Earlier, we had an opportunity to hold discussions, & at that time you had laid out the vision for India-US bilateral relations. Today, you are taking initiatives to implement your vision for India-US relations." The two leaders have met earlier when Biden was the US vice president, this is for the first time that Biden is meeting Modi after he became the 46th president of the US. Here are the key takeaways from the Modi-Biden bilateral summit: A new chapter in India-US ties: The bilateral meet was crucial for India and equally vital for the US as Biden is looking forward to deepening his bid to cement US leadership of a "stable" Indo-Pacific in the face of a rising China. Biden recalled that in 2006, when he was US Vice President, he had said that India and the US will be among the closest nations in the world in 2020. "I have long believed that the US-India relationship can help us solve a lot of global challenges. In fact back in 2006 when I was the Vice President, I said that by 2020 India and the US will be among the closest nations in the world," Biden said. IN PICS | PM Modi, US President Joe Biden hold first in person meet in White House × "I think that the relationship between India and the United States, the largest democracies in the world, is destined to be stronger, closer and tighter, and I believe it can benefit the whole world," he added. Biden said they are launching a "new chapter" in the history of India US ties, "taking on some of the toughest challenges" and starting with a shared commitment. Technology PM Modi said this decade will be shaped by talent and people-to-people linkages and added that he is glad the Indian diaspora is making an active contribution towards the US' progress. He said that technology is becoming a driving force. "We have to utilise our talents to leverage technology for greater global good." ALSO READ | '5 Ts': Indian PM Narendra Modi redefines contours of ties at summit with US president Joe Biden Modi recalled his interactions with Biden in 2014 and 2016, saying "that time you had shared your vision for ties between India and US. I am glad to see you are working to realise this vision." During his US visit, PM Modi also met top American CEOs from key sectors and highlighted the vast economic opputunities, initing the companies to invest in India. Trade PM Modi said that trade holds importance on its own between India and the US. He said, "In this decade, we can be complementary to each other." "There are many things with the US, that are needed by India and many things with India that can be useful for the US. Trade will be a major sector in this decade," said Modi. COVID-19 and Climate Change: Biden said during the talks, he will talk about "what more we can do to fight COVID-19, take on the climate challenges that the world face, and ensure stability in the Indo Pacific, including with our partners".

From trade to technology: Key takeaways from Narendra Modi-Joe Biden bilateral talks

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met United States President Joe Biden for&nbsp;their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-pm-narendra-modi-us-president-joe-biden-hold-first-in-person-bilateral-summit-415630">first in-person bilateral summit</a> at the White House on Friday (September 24).&nbsp;

From trade to climate change to stronger Indo-US relations, the leaders addressed a range of issues and vowed to strengthen the ties further.

Modi said he sees the seeds have been sown for India-US relations to expand under Biden's leadership.&nbsp;

However, what won the hearts of Indians and Indian diaspora all over the world was the video of Biden welcoming Modi with open arms.

The footage was a proof of strong relations between two democracies, the oldest and largest, heralding a promising future.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-climate-change-on-agenda-as-pm-narendra-modi-prepares-to-attend-quad-415569">COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad</a>

Earlier in the day, Modi arrived at the White House and the Acting Chief of Protocol greeted him at the West Wing door. His hour-long meeting with Biden took place at the Oval Office.

When PM Modi entered the office,&nbsp;ecstatic Biden opened his hands as the Indian PM's hands were&nbsp;folded in a traditional&nbsp;namaste greeting.&nbsp;

PM Modi said, "I thank you for the warm welcome accorded to me and my delegation. Earlier, we had an opportunity to hold discussions and at that time you had laid out the vision for India-US bilateral relations. Today, you are taking initiatives to implement your vision for India-US relations."

Watch the video here:

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In opening remarks at the Oval Office, PM Modi said, "In 2016 and 2014, I had the opportunity to talk to you in detail on the vision of India US partnership. Your vision was very inspiring. And today as the President the initiative that you are taking to take it further, I welcome that."&nbsp;

Previously, Modi had said his visit would be an occasion to strengthen the Indo-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest with President Biden.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met United States President Joe Biden for their first in-person bilateral summit at the White House on Friday (September 24).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met United States President Joe Biden for their first in-person bilateral summit at the White House on Friday (September 24). From trade to climate change to stronger Indo-US relations, the leaders addressed a range of issues and vowed to strengthen the ties further. Modi said he sees the seeds have been sown for India-US relations to expand under Biden's leadership. However, what won the hearts of Indians and Indian diaspora all over the world was the video of Biden welcoming Modi with open arms. The footage was a proof of strong relations between two democracies, the oldest and largest, heralding a promising future. ALSO READ | COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad Earlier in the day, Modi arrived at the White House and the Acting Chief of Protocol greeted him at the West Wing door. His hour-long meeting with Biden took place at the Oval Office. When PM Modi entered the office, ecstatic Biden opened his hands as the Indian PM's hands were folded in a traditional namaste greeting. PM Modi said, "I thank you for the warm welcome accorded to me and my delegation. Earlier, we had an opportunity to hold discussions and at that time you had laid out the vision for India-US bilateral relations. Today, you are taking initiatives to implement your vision for India-US relations." Watch the video here: #WATCH Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives a warm welcome from US President Joe Biden at the White House pic.twitter.com/SEp29Rrl5g — ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2021 × In opening remarks at the Oval Office, PM Modi said, "In 2016 and 2014, I had the opportunity to talk to you in detail on the vision of India US partnership. Your vision was very inspiring. And today as the President the initiative that you are taking to take it further, I welcome that." Previously, Modi had said his visit would be an occasion to strengthen the Indo-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest with President Biden.

Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts

The highly anticipated face-to-face bilateral meeting between President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi took place on September 24, 2021, to discuss pressing global and regional issues ranging from Covid to Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised US President Joe Biden's commitment and vision for India-US relations and the globe at large on Friday.

Modi, who was seated alongside Biden in the Oval Office of the White House, told the president that they had the opportunity to discuss India-US relations in depth in 2016 and even before that in 2014.&nbsp;

In meeting with Biden, PM Modi redefines the contours of India-USA ties.

PM highlights the 5 T’s of: tradition, talent, technology, trade, and trusteeship.

Tradition: Modi stated that the seeds of Indo-US collaboration had been sowed. Modi predicted that the importance of both countries' traditions, as well as the democratic values to which they are dedicated, will only grow.&nbsp;

Talent: Modi praised 4 million-strong Indian-American talent and its contribution to the US economy, predicting that such people-to-people exchanges will continue to rise.&nbsp;

Technology: In today's world, technology will be the driving force — technology for the benefit of humanity. Trade would play a significant role in this scenario. According to Modi, commerce between the United States and India is complementary, with one country possessing items that the other requires.&nbsp;

Trade: In the ongoing decade, India and the US can also strengthen their trade relationship. Trade will remain a key area of cooperation between both countries.

Trusteeship: &nbsp;Gandhi Ji's Jayanti was mentioned by President Joe Biden. Gandhi Ji discussed Trusteeship, a concept that will be critical for our world in the future.

The highly anticipated face-to-face bilateral meeting between President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi took place on September 24, 2021, to discuss pressing global and regional issues ranging from Covid to Afghanistan.

The highly anticipated face-to-face bilateral meeting between President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi took place on September 24, 2021, to discuss pressing global and regional issues ranging from Covid to Afghanistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised US President Joe Biden's commitment and vision for India-US relations and the globe at large on Friday. Modi, who was seated alongside Biden in the Oval Office of the White House, told the president that they had the opportunity to discuss India-US relations in depth in 2016 and even before that in 2014. In meeting with Biden, PM Modi redefines the contours of India-USA ties. PM highlights the 5 T’s of: tradition, talent, technology, trade, and trusteeship. Tradition: Modi stated that the seeds of Indo-US collaboration had been sowed. Modi predicted that the importance of both countries' traditions, as well as the democratic values to which they are dedicated, will only grow. Talent: Modi praised 4 million-strong Indian-American talent and its contribution to the US economy, predicting that such people-to-people exchanges will continue to rise. Technology: In today's world, technology will be the driving force — technology for the benefit of humanity. Trade would play a significant role in this scenario. According to Modi, commerce between the United States and India is complementary, with one country possessing items that the other requires. Trade: In the ongoing decade, India and the US can also strengthen their trade relationship. Trade will remain a key area of cooperation between both countries. Trusteeship: Gandhi Ji's Jayanti was mentioned by President Joe Biden. Gandhi Ji discussed Trusteeship, a concept that will be critical for our world in the future.

'5 Ts': Indian PM Narendra Modi redefines contours of ties at summit with US president Joe Biden

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reminded US President Joe Biden on Friday that there is still much work to be done in the sphere of trade, emphasising the importance of the two nations' business connections.

This is their first meeting since Biden took office as President of the United States in January of this year.

PM Modi emphasised the importance of the bilateral summit, noting that the seeds had been laid for a deeper partnership between India and the United States.

"There is much to be done in trade. Trade will be an important factor in India-USA ties in the coming decade, PM Modi said in his first bilateral meeting with the US President. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/beginning-new-chapter-joe-biden-tells-modi-india-us-ties-to-be-stronger-closer-tighter-415658">Also read | Beginning new chapter: Joe Biden tells Modi India-US ties to be stronger, closer, tighter</a> 
 
PM Modi stated that President Joe Biden is taking steps to put his vision for bilateral relations into action.

He went on to say that talent and people-to-people connections will determine this decade.

The following are PM Modi's important White House quotes:&nbsp;

<ol>
	<li>I'd like to express my gratitude to President Joe Biden for his kind greeting. I remember our encounters in 2014 and 2016. You had outlined your vision for India-US relations at the time. I'm delighted to see you're working to make this idea a reality.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>There is much to be done in trade. Trade will be an important factor in India-USA ties in the coming decade. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Today's bilateral summit is important. We are meeting at the start of the third decade of this century. Your leadership will certainly play an important role in how this decade is shaped. The seeds have been sown for an even stronger friendship between India and the US. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>I am glad the Indian diaspora is making an active contribution to the USA's progress. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Gandhi Ji's Jayanti was mentioned by President Joe Biden. Gandhi Ji discussed Trusteeship, a concept that will be critical for our world in the future.&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Each of the issues raised by President Joe Biden is critical to the alliance between India and the United States. His contributions to COVID-19, climate change mitigation, and the Quad are important. 
	 
	<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-indian-pm-narendra-modi-receives-warm-welcome-by-joe-biden-video-wins-hearts-415646">Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts</a> 
	 
	ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-climate-change-on-agenda-as-pm-narendra-modi-prepares-to-attend-quad-415569">COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad</a></li>
</ol>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reminded US President Joe Biden on Friday that there is still much work to be done in the sphere of trade, emphasising the importance of the two nations' business connections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reminded US President Joe Biden on Friday that there is still much work to be done in the sphere of trade, emphasising the importance of the two nations' business connections. This is their first meeting since Biden took office as President of the United States in January of this year. PM Modi emphasised the importance of the bilateral summit, noting that the seeds had been laid for a deeper partnership between India and the United States. "There is much to be done in trade. Trade will be an important factor in India-USA ties in the coming decade, PM Modi said in his first bilateral meeting with the US President. Also read | Beginning new chapter: Joe Biden tells Modi India-US ties to be stronger, closer, tighter PM Modi stated that President Joe Biden is taking steps to put his vision for bilateral relations into action. He went on to say that talent and people-to-people connections will determine this decade. The following are PM Modi's important White House quotes: I'd like to express my gratitude to President Joe Biden for his kind greeting. I remember our encounters in 2014 and 2016. You had outlined your vision for India-US relations at the time. I'm delighted to see you're working to make this idea a reality. There is much to be done in trade. Trade will be an important factor in India-USA ties in the coming decade. Today's bilateral summit is important. We are meeting at the start of the third decade of this century. Your leadership will certainly play an important role in how this decade is shaped. The seeds have been sown for an even stronger friendship between India and the US. I am glad the Indian diaspora is making an active contribution to the USA's progress. Gandhi Ji's Jayanti was mentioned by President Joe Biden. Gandhi Ji discussed Trusteeship, a concept that will be critical for our world in the future. Each of the issues raised by President Joe Biden is critical to the alliance between India and the United States. His contributions to COVID-19, climate change mitigation, and the Quad are important. Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts ALSO READ | COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad

Trade is an important factor in India-US ties, PM Modi tells US President Biden

The relationship between India and the United States, the world's two greatest democracies, is destined to become stronger, closer, and tighter, US President Joe Biden said on Friday as he hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their first in-person bilateral summit.

"Every day, four million Indian-Americans strengthen the United States," Biden told Modi.&nbsp;

He stated the two countries were beginning a new chapter in India-United States relations.

"I have known you for a long time. I am glad that you have come back to the White House… You are well aware of our history… Our relationship has always been good," Biden told Modi. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-indian-pm-narendra-modi-receives-warm-welcome-by-joe-biden-video-wins-hearts-415646">Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts</a>

The two leaders met&nbsp;at the Oval Office and discussed a wide variety of issues, including COVID-19, climate change and economic cooperation. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-climate-change-on-agenda-as-pm-narendra-modi-prepares-to-attend-quad-415569">COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad</a>

They have met before when Biden was vice president, but this is the first time Biden is hosting Modi since becoming the 46th US president in January.&nbsp;

Here are some quotes from US President Joe Biden's remarks to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi:&nbsp;

"Welcome. I want to welcome my friend, who I've known for some time, back to the White House. And Mr Prime Minister, we're going to continue to build on our strong partnership."

"When I showed the Prime Minister to his seat, I pointed out that seat is occupied almost every day by an Indian American."

"The Vice President's mother was from India, a scientist and a remarkable woman,&nbsp;" he said, referring to&nbsp;Shyamala Gopalan Harris, the mother of his deputy Kamala Harris.

"As I think you know, Mr Prime Minister, I've long believed that the US-India relationship can help us solve an awful lot of global challenges."

"In fact, back in 2006, I sent that hope out where I said that by 2020... India and the United States would be among the closest nations in the world to one another."

"And maybe I shouldn't – these are not part of my prepared remarks, but when I was in Mumbai as vice president, I finished meeting with the equivalent of the chamber of commerce. And afterwards, the Indian press asked me, "Do I have any relatives in India?"

"And I said I'm not sure but, when I was elected as a 29-year-old in kid in 1972, before I was sworn in, I got a letter from a person named Biden – last name – in Mumbai, from Mumbai. And I said, but I was never able to follow up." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-bidens-in-mumbai-when-joe-biden-spoke-of-distant-relatives-in-india-341725">Also read | ‘5 Bidens in Mumbai’: When Joe Biden spoke of distant relatives in India&nbsp;</a>

"The next morning, I had a press conference going away, and the Indian press, some of these folks, said you have five Bidens in India. And although we never admitted it – jokingly – I've found out that there was a Captain George Biden who was a captain in the East India Tea Company in India."

Biden turned to Modi and quipped: "That's hard for an Irishman to admit."

Biden then said to the press: "I shouldn't be so casual with you all. I hope you understand the humour in it. The end result was, he apparently stayed and married an Indian woman and I've never been able to track it down, so the whole purpose of this meeting is for him to help me figure out."

The US President smiled and there was laughter from the people in the room.

The relationship between India and the United States, the world's two greatest democracies, is destined to become stronger, closer, and tighter, US President Joe Biden said on Friday as he hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their first in-person bilateral summit.

The relationship between India and the United States, the world's two greatest democracies, is destined to become stronger, closer, and tighter, US President Joe Biden said on Friday as he hosted Prime Minister Narendra Modi for their first in-person bilateral summit. "Every day, four million Indian-Americans strengthen the United States," Biden told Modi. He stated the two countries were beginning a new chapter in India-United States relations. "I have known you for a long time. I am glad that you have come back to the White House… You are well aware of our history… Our relationship has always been good," Biden told Modi. Watch: Indian PM Narendra Modi receives warm welcome by Joe Biden, video wins hearts The two leaders met at the Oval Office and discussed a wide variety of issues, including COVID-19, climate change and economic cooperation. ALSO READ | COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad They have met before when Biden was vice president, but this is the first time Biden is hosting Modi since becoming the 46th US president in January. Here are some quotes from US President Joe Biden's remarks to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi: "Welcome. I want to welcome my friend, who I've known for some time, back to the White House. And Mr Prime Minister, we're going to continue to build on our strong partnership." "When I showed the Prime Minister to his seat, I pointed out that seat is occupied almost every day by an Indian American." "The Vice President's mother was from India, a scientist and a remarkable woman, " he said, referring to Shyamala Gopalan Harris, the mother of his deputy Kamala Harris. "As I think you know, Mr Prime Minister, I've long believed that the US-India relationship can help us solve an awful lot of global challenges." "In fact, back in 2006, I sent that hope out where I said that by 2020... India and the United States would be among the closest nations in the world to one another." "And maybe I shouldn't – these are not part of my prepared remarks, but when I was in Mumbai as vice president, I finished meeting with the equivalent of the chamber of commerce. And afterwards, the Indian press asked me, "Do I have any relatives in India?" "And I said I'm not sure but, when I was elected as a 29-year-old in kid in 1972, before I was sworn in, I got a letter from a person named Biden – last name – in Mumbai, from Mumbai. And I said, but I was never able to follow up." Also read | ‘5 Bidens in Mumbai’: When Joe Biden spoke of distant relatives in India "The next morning, I had a press conference going away, and the Indian press, some of these folks, said you have five Bidens in India. And although we never admitted it – jokingly – I've found out that there was a Captain George Biden who was a captain in the East India Tea Company in India." Biden turned to Modi and quipped: "That's hard for an Irishman to admit." Biden then said to the press: "I shouldn't be so casual with you all. I hope you understand the humour in it. The end result was, he apparently stayed and married an Indian woman and I've never been able to track it down, so the whole purpose of this meeting is for him to help me figure out." The US President smiled and there was laughter from the people in the room.

Beginning a new chapter: Joe Biden tells Modi India-US ties to be stronger, closer, tighter

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indo-US ties during his first, historic in-person bilateral summit with US President at the White House on Friday (September 24).&nbsp;

In opening remarks at the Oval Office, PM Modi said, "In 2016 and 2014, I had the opportunity to talk to you in detail on the vision of India US partnership. Your vision was very inspiring. And today as the president, the initiative that you are taking to take it further, I welcome that."&nbsp;

"I thank you for the warm welcome accorded to me and my delegation. Earlier, we had an opportunity to hold discussions and at that time you had laid out the vision for India-US bilateral relations. Today, you are taking initiatives to implement &nbsp;your vision for India-US relations," PM Modi added.

PM Modi added, "This decade will be shaped by talent and people-to-people linkages. I am glad the Indian diaspora is making an active contribution towards USA’s progress."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-climate-change-on-agenda-as-pm-narendra-modi-prepares-to-attend-quad-415569">COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad</a>

While the two leaders have met earlier when Biden was the US vice president, this is for the first time that Biden is meeting Modi after he became the 46th president of the US.&nbsp;

Biden said that it is is a beginning of a new chapter in India-US relationship. He also pointed out that&nbsp;"four million Indian Americans every day are making America stronger".

Ahead of the meet, President Biden tweeted, "This morning I'm hosting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House for a bilateral meeting."

"I look forward to strengthening the deep ties between our two nations, working to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific, and tackling everything from COVID-19 to climate change."

Watch the video here:

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Today we begin a new chapter in Indo - US relationships. Four Million Indian Americans everyday making America stronger : US President Joe Biden 
 
Report: Souvagya Kar<a href="https://t.co/gwlAnnyXvP">pic.twitter.com/gwlAnnyXvP</a>
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/airnewsalerts/status/1441424893245943813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier,&nbsp;Modi arrived at the White House and&nbsp;Acting Chief of Protocol greeted him at the West Wing door.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1441418902605418497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Both leaders have spoken over the phone multiple times and attended a few virtual summits, including that of the Quad grouping in March, hosted by the US president.

Their&nbsp;last telephone conversation between them took place on April 26.

Previously, Modi had said his visit would be an occasion to strengthen the Indo-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest with President Biden.

After this,&nbsp;Modi will attend&nbsp;the first-ever in-person Quad summit with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indo-US ties during his first, historic in-person bilateral summit with US President at the White House on Friday (September 24).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indo-US ties during his first, historic in-person bilateral summit with US President at the White House on Friday (September 24). In opening remarks at the Oval Office, PM Modi said, "In 2016 and 2014, I had the opportunity to talk to you in detail on the vision of India US partnership. Your vision was very inspiring. And today as the president, the initiative that you are taking to take it further, I welcome that." "I thank you for the warm welcome accorded to me and my delegation. Earlier, we had an opportunity to hold discussions and at that time you had laid out the vision for India-US bilateral relations. Today, you are taking initiatives to implement your vision for India-US relations," PM Modi added. PM Modi added, "This decade will be shaped by talent and people-to-people linkages. I am glad the Indian diaspora is making an active contribution towards USA’s progress." ALSO READ | COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad While the two leaders have met earlier when Biden was the US vice president, this is for the first time that Biden is meeting Modi after he became the 46th president of the US. Biden said that it is is a beginning of a new chapter in India-US relationship. He also pointed out that "four million Indian Americans every day are making America stronger". Ahead of the meet, President Biden tweeted, "This morning I'm hosting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House for a bilateral meeting." "I look forward to strengthening the deep ties between our two nations, working to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific, and tackling everything from COVID-19 to climate change." Watch the video here: Today we begin a new chapter in Indo - US relationships. Four Million Indian Americans everyday making America stronger : US President Joe Biden Report: Souvagya Karpic.twitter.com/gwlAnnyXvP — All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 24, 2021 × Earlier, Modi arrived at the White House and Acting Chief of Protocol greeted him at the West Wing door. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Washington DC: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the White House to hold a bilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden. pic.twitter.com/f4v129fLbG — ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2021 × Both leaders have spoken over the phone multiple times and attended a few virtual summits, including that of the Quad grouping in March, hosted by the US president. Their last telephone conversation between them took place on April 26. Previously, Modi had said his visit would be an occasion to strengthen the Indo-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest with President Biden. After this, Modi will attend the first-ever in-person Quad summit with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan.

Indian PM Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden hold first in-person bilateral summit

Now American President and then (1992) Senator from Delaware, Joseph R Biden played a crucial role in denying India the Cryogenic engine technology that powers India's GSLV series of heavy-lift rockets. The GSLV series of rockets are meant to launch payloads between 2 and 4 tons to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit(GTO), it is the heaviest rocket of this class, which will also launch India's Human Spaceflight mission Gaganyaan. "This is no minor sale; this is dangerous" he described the then Indo-Russian deal for the Russian 'KVD-1' Cryogenic engines, which are among the best in the world. Back then, America tried every dirty trick to scuttle India's rapidly progressing space programme. It is widely regarded that the Americans did succeed in eventually delaying India’s march into Space. Joseph R Biden was among the overt contributors in this act, which India (to its own peril) refused to resist effectively or immediately overcome.&nbsp;

Barely 35 years after having established the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in a ramshackle church-turned-laboratory in Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram, on India’s Southern Coast, the country was able to launch its PSLV rocket in 1994. This was a significant feat for a country that had been launching experiments ‘sounding rockets’ akin to fireworks until the late 1960s, when America landed Man on the Moon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-referred-to-pakistans-role-in-terrorism-during-meeting-with-pm-modi-shringla-415387">VP Kamala Harris referred to Pak's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi</a>

A large part of the PSLV rocket’s success and reliability is owed to its Vikas Engine, that was co-developed by ISRO and French SEP Engineers. It was Princeton-postgraduate ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan(now regarded as the Father of Liquid Propulsion engine technology in India) who led an ISRO team in co-developing the engine (which the French call Viking-3 and India calls Vikas). Notably, this engine powers the PSLV and GSLV rockets, even today.

Buoyed by the success in co-developing the Vikas Engine, India struck a deal, in 1991, with its all-weather ally Russia to procure a handful of KVD-1 engines and the technological know-why, hands-on training for producing the engines within India. Such a deal was India’s best and fastest shot at entering the global league of heavy-lift rockets. Valued at Rs.235crore, this Russian deal was barely 1/4th the price that the American company General Dynamics had quoted for selling India inferior American Cryogenic engines. However, the American intelligence apparatus caught wind of the Russian deal and tried every trick in the bag to scuttle it and eventually delay the Indian Space programme.&nbsp;

Among the methods used by the Americans included sanctions on the Indian and Russian Space Agencies, besides invoking an irrelevant ‘Missile Technology Control Regime’(MTCR) pact, that prevented the proliferation of long-range missiles. Ironically, Americans themselves had offered India the same Cryogenic technology for a higher price(which was then not objected under the MTCR). Also, it was well known to all military-powers that Cryogenic Engines found no use in missiles(which are powered by solid and not super-cooled fuels). When the sanctions did not impact the Indian or Russian space agencies, both of which did not do business in the US, the Americans started trying even harder to trash the deal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/risk-of-another-911-style-attack-on-us-very-real-former-nsa-john-bolton-to-wion-415498">Risk of another 9/11-style attack on US very real, says ex-NSA Bolton to WION</a>

The disintegration of the erstwhile Soviet Union had made matters easy for America to arm-twist and threaten Russia, by denying financial aid to the crumbling superpower. “I am confident that the Russian leaders will recognize the wisdom of stopping this sale once they see the risk of losing their economic aid. This is no minor sale; this is dangerous.” LA Times quotes Biden from 1992. The then Senate committee(of which Senator Joseph Biden was a member) threatened to block $24billion in aid to Russia, if Russians went ahead with the rocket deal with India. Despite all these threats, Russia and India went ahead with their deal and devised workarounds to circumnavigate American dirty tricks.&nbsp;

However, all of these efforts by India and Russia came crashing when compromised personnel of the Kerala Police and senior officials the Indian Intelligence Bureau, fabricated the famed ‘ISRO Spy Case’. The main victims of the case were those linked with India’s cryogenic engine project, specifically - Nambi Narayanan, Cryogenic Project Director at ISRO, who had also played a crucial role in developing India’s Vikas Engine. While Nambi Narayanan languished in jail and was tortured brutally by the IB and Kerala Police, the political fallout of this case in Kerala helped one faction of the then Kerala Congress to topple their own incumbent Chief Minister and install a new one.

After India’s Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) took over the case, it was established that the ‘ISRO Spy Case’ was a conspiracy fabricated by officials of IB and Kerala Police. However, given India’s excruciatingly slow Judicial system and labyrinthine processes, those who conspired against the National Space Programme are still scot-free(Court proceedings and probe ongoing).&nbsp;

The involvement of criminal elements in IB and Kerala Police might give rise to the question of how Joseph Biden or America are connected to this conspiracy. The answer is simple - the Americans were successful in delaying India’s Cryogenic engine project, to the advantage of their own Space Industry and global launch market dominance.&nbsp;

If all went as planned, had India developed its Cryogenic engine and deployed it on a GSLV rocket by the end of the millennium, India would possibly have had a significant share of the pie, in the US-dominated (then $330billion) global space economy. This would have enabled India to progress throughout the decades of the 21st century and grow into a significant space player. While India eventually did develop its Cryogenic engine, it is noteworthy that - as of 2021, India’s share of the $447bn global space economy is less than 2%.&nbsp;

In the last three decades, the India-US bilateral relationship has improved so much so that, ISRO and NASA will be launching a joint mission NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) in 2022. These days, the US Government dubs India as a “strategic partner”. What remains to be seen is, if the US will mean this in earnest and compensate the Indian Space Research Organization for the precious years lost and the significant damage done. Would the US, under Biden-Harris be open to involving India in high-end projects pertaining to the International Space Station, Space Force or advanced exploration missions, technological collaborations that could enable a quantum leap for India. Or will these projects remain open only to allies?&nbsp;

Whichever way it heads, it wont be an excuse to forget the bygone chapters of American evils perpetrated on India and also India’s own pathetically lackadaisical and sluggish responses to these historical injustices.&nbsp;

Now American President and then (1992) Senator from Delaware, Joseph R Biden played a crucial role in denying India the Cryogenic engine technology that powers India's GSLV series of heavy-lift rockets.

Now American President and then (1992) Senator from Delaware, Joseph R Biden played a crucial role in denying India the Cryogenic engine technology that powers India's GSLV series of heavy-lift rockets. The GSLV series of rockets are meant to launch payloads between 2 and 4 tons to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit(GTO), it is the heaviest rocket of this class, which will also launch India's Human Spaceflight mission Gaganyaan. "This is no minor sale; this is dangerous" he described the then Indo-Russian deal for the Russian 'KVD-1' Cryogenic engines, which are among the best in the world. Back then, America tried every dirty trick to scuttle India's rapidly progressing space programme. It is widely regarded that the Americans did succeed in eventually delaying India’s march into Space. Joseph R Biden was among the overt contributors in this act, which India (to its own peril) refused to resist effectively or immediately overcome. Barely 35 years after having established the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in a ramshackle church-turned-laboratory in Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram, on India’s Southern Coast, the country was able to launch its PSLV rocket in 1994. This was a significant feat for a country that had been launching experiments ‘sounding rockets’ akin to fireworks until the late 1960s, when America landed Man on the Moon. ALSO READ | VP Kamala Harris referred to Pak's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi A large part of the PSLV rocket’s success and reliability is owed to its Vikas Engine, that was co-developed by ISRO and French SEP Engineers. It was Princeton-postgraduate ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan(now regarded as the Father of Liquid Propulsion engine technology in India) who led an ISRO team in co-developing the engine (which the French call Viking-3 and India calls Vikas). Notably, this engine powers the PSLV and GSLV rockets, even today. Buoyed by the success in co-developing the Vikas Engine, India struck a deal, in 1991, with its all-weather ally Russia to procure a handful of KVD-1 engines and the technological know-why, hands-on training for producing the engines within India. Such a deal was India’s best and fastest shot at entering the global league of heavy-lift rockets. Valued at Rs.235crore, this Russian deal was barely 1/4th the price that the American company General Dynamics had quoted for selling India inferior American Cryogenic engines. However, the American intelligence apparatus caught wind of the Russian deal and tried every trick in the bag to scuttle it and eventually delay the Indian Space programme. Among the methods used by the Americans included sanctions on the Indian and Russian Space Agencies, besides invoking an irrelevant ‘Missile Technology Control Regime’(MTCR) pact, that prevented the proliferation of long-range missiles. Ironically, Americans themselves had offered India the same Cryogenic technology for a higher price(which was then not objected under the MTCR). Also, it was well known to all military-powers that Cryogenic Engines found no use in missiles(which are powered by solid and not super-cooled fuels). When the sanctions did not impact the Indian or Russian space agencies, both of which did not do business in the US, the Americans started trying even harder to trash the deal. ALSO READ | Risk of another 9/11-style attack on US very real, says ex-NSA Bolton to WION The disintegration of the erstwhile Soviet Union had made matters easy for America to arm-twist and threaten Russia, by denying financial aid to the crumbling superpower. “I am confident that the Russian leaders will recognize the wisdom of stopping this sale once they see the risk of losing their economic aid. This is no minor sale; this is dangerous.” LA Times quotes Biden from 1992. The then Senate committee(of which Senator Joseph Biden was a member) threatened to block $24billion in aid to Russia, if Russians went ahead with the rocket deal with India. Despite all these threats, Russia and India went ahead with their deal and devised workarounds to circumnavigate American dirty tricks. However, all of these efforts by India and Russia came crashing when compromised personnel of the Kerala Police and senior officials the Indian Intelligence Bureau, fabricated the famed ‘ISRO Spy Case’. The main victims of the case were those linked with India’s cryogenic engine project, specifically - Nambi Narayanan, Cryogenic Project Director at ISRO, who had also played a crucial role in developing India’s Vikas Engine. While Nambi Narayanan languished in jail and was tortured brutally by the IB and Kerala Police, the political fallout of this case in Kerala helped one faction of the then Kerala Congress to topple their own incumbent Chief Minister and install a new one. After India’s Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) took over the case, it was established that the ‘ISRO Spy Case’ was a conspiracy fabricated by officials of IB and Kerala Police. However, given India’s excruciatingly slow Judicial system and labyrinthine processes, those who conspired against the National Space Programme are still scot-free(Court proceedings and probe ongoing). The involvement of criminal elements in IB and Kerala Police might give rise to the question of how Joseph Biden or America are connected to this conspiracy. The answer is simple - the Americans were successful in delaying India’s Cryogenic engine project, to the advantage of their own Space Industry and global launch market dominance. If all went as planned, had India developed its Cryogenic engine and deployed it on a GSLV rocket by the end of the millennium, India would possibly have had a significant share of the pie, in the US-dominated (then $330billion) global space economy. This would have enabled India to progress throughout the decades of the 21st century and grow into a significant space player. While India eventually did develop its Cryogenic engine, it is noteworthy that - as of 2021, India’s share of the $447bn global space economy is less than 2%. In the last three decades, the India-US bilateral relationship has improved so much so that, ISRO and NASA will be launching a joint mission NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) in 2022. These days, the US Government dubs India as a “strategic partner”. What remains to be seen is, if the US will mean this in earnest and compensate the Indian Space Research Organization for the precious years lost and the significant damage done. Would the US, under Biden-Harris be open to involving India in high-end projects pertaining to the International Space Station, Space Force or advanced exploration missions, technological collaborations that could enable a quantum leap for India. Or will these projects remain open only to allies? Whichever way it heads, it wont be an excuse to forget the bygone chapters of American evils perpetrated on India and also India’s own pathetically lackadaisical and sluggish responses to these historical injustices.

When Joe Biden denied India space tech, called it 'dangerous', US delayed India's space programme

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has urged closer ties with India as he warned of China's growing might on its doorstep, amid a flurry of diplomacy between the world's two largest democracies. Watch report.

Mike Pompeo: India needs US as its ally

India witnessed an unprecedented welcome for a foreign head of state, it was the biggest crowd that US President Donald Trump has ever addressed.

India left no stone unturned to throw a grand reception for the American President. It's a visit that will be remembered for the pictures and the bonhomie between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-indians-love-us-president-donald-trump-282632">President Donald Trump</a> and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This visit certainly overshadows all previous State visits by American Presidents. Trump used this opportunity to cement his relationship with Prime Minister by the end of his trip.&nbsp;

The status of this relationship has now been elevated - India and America now call their relationship 'a comprehensive global partnership'. This is a significant move - experts see this as a vow by both parties to prioritise their partnership over other partners.

The conversations between America and India will now be closely watched, both sides are expanding their defence alliance. There is broad support over the issue of terrorism.

America has endorsed India positions on issues like Kashmir and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). There is renewed momentum to settle trade differences - both sides are now considering a major agreement that could be signed before the end of this agreement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/a-new-era-of-india-us-relations-has-begun-282824">Also Read:&nbsp;A new era of India-US relations has begun</a>

President Trump would prefer that the deal comes through before the Presidential elections in November. Both sides are sending the right signals, its time for India to now push for tangible gains.

There are several outstanding issues on the list. The major one is Visas &nbsp;- a report claims that the number of Indians on the waitlist for a US Greencard rose by 35 times.

New Delhi would also expect a more aggressive push from Washington against Pakistani terror groups.

America has supported India's bid for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council, a renewed diplomatic campaign for United Nations reforms is long overdue.&nbsp;

The fact that Trump took out time for a visit to India in an election year is a victory for New Delhi.

WATCH: High Expectations From India - US alliance

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It's becoming increasingly clear that the Indo-American alliance can play a definitive role in redefining the world order in the 21st century.

Irrespective of who wields power in the White House in the coming years &nbsp;- America and China will have an uneasy relationship. In fact, more clashes between both sides can be expected in the future.

Such circumstances will lead to a greater role for India in the region. It is likely that American businesses would look at India to protect their investments.

Washington will depend on New Delhi for a security partnership to protect its interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Trump's visit has heightened expectations from the Indo-American alliance. The world now expects more from India and the United States in the coming months.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world) 
&nbsp;

India witnessed an unprecedented welcome for a foreign head of state, it was the biggest crowd that US President Donald Trump has ever addressed. India left no stone unturned to throw a grand reception for the American President.

India witnessed an unprecedented welcome for a foreign head of state, it was the biggest crowd that US President Donald Trump has ever addressed. India left no stone unturned to throw a grand reception for the American President. It's a visit that will be remembered for the pictures and the bonhomie between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit certainly overshadows all previous State visits by American Presidents. Trump used this opportunity to cement his relationship with Prime Minister by the end of his trip. The status of this relationship has now been elevated - India and America now call their relationship 'a comprehensive global partnership'. This is a significant move - experts see this as a vow by both parties to prioritise their partnership over other partners. The conversations between America and India will now be closely watched, both sides are expanding their defence alliance. There is broad support over the issue of terrorism. America has endorsed India positions on issues like Kashmir and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). There is renewed momentum to settle trade differences - both sides are now considering a major agreement that could be signed before the end of this agreement. Also Read: A new era of India-US relations has begun President Trump would prefer that the deal comes through before the Presidential elections in November. Both sides are sending the right signals, its time for India to now push for tangible gains. There are several outstanding issues on the list. The major one is Visas - a report claims that the number of Indians on the waitlist for a US Greencard rose by 35 times. New Delhi would also expect a more aggressive push from Washington against Pakistani terror groups. America has supported India's bid for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council, a renewed diplomatic campaign for United Nations reforms is long overdue. The fact that Trump took out time for a visit to India in an election year is a victory for New Delhi. WATCH: High Expectations From India - US alliance × It's becoming increasingly clear that the Indo-American alliance can play a definitive role in redefining the world order in the 21st century. Irrespective of who wields power in the White House in the coming years - America and China will have an uneasy relationship. In fact, more clashes between both sides can be expected in the future. Such circumstances will lead to a greater role for India in the region. It is likely that American businesses would look at India to protect their investments. Washington will depend on New Delhi for a security partnership to protect its interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Trump's visit has heightened expectations from the Indo-American alliance. The world now expects more from India and the United States in the coming months. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Indo-US ties can play a definitive role in redefining world order

The US India strategic partnership is based on shared values of democracy, common geopolitical interests, mutual respect and understanding, and marked by warmth and friendship between the political leadership and its people. &nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump have met eight times in the last 3 years, of which they met bilaterally 4 times in the last year. That, President Trump, has chosen to visit India, in a busy election year, when Presidencies are focused on their campaigns and domestic agenda, is an indicator of the level of mutual comfort and trust between the leaders. &nbsp;

This visit may have more political and optic overtones than economic, but that does nothing to take away the bilateral significance of the visit, as well as, the significant progress made in the areas of strategic importance, like defence, counter-terror, security, oil &amp; gas and trade ties.

The key takeaways from the visit would probably be in the fields of Defence, Trade and Space.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The deepening of the defence ties between the two nations has witnessed steady progression with the Defence Trade and Technology Initiative (DTTI), 2+2 dialogues, increased frequency of military exercises, moving from the annual YUDH ABHYAAS series to TIGER TRIUMPH – a tri-services joint exercise facilitated by the signing of the LEMOA and Communication, Compatibility &amp; Security Agreement. &nbsp;

It is expected, that TIGER TRIUMPH tri-service exercise with India will become an annual event and it is a vindication of the India’s emergence as the strategic partner of the US not only in the region but outside of NATO, as the only nation to have been given the status of major defence partner, to whom the US has consented to share sensitive military technologies, weapons and equipment – in no small means catalysed by the STA-1 status that India enjoys. &nbsp;

Geopolitics: China, being the elephant in the room, the renaming of the PACOM as the Indo-Pacific Command is reflective of the growing strategic stature of India in US military strategy and for the enforcement of the free and open, rules-based international order in the Pacific region.&nbsp;

There is the convergence of interest for India and US to limit the Chinese influence in the South Asian &amp; ASEAN region. India has assiduously cultivated maritime security alliances with Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore in pursuit of a free to navigate the Pacific and Indian Ocean region and limiting the Chinese influence in the South China Sea. &nbsp;

A free democratic and emergent power, India, is the ideal counterweight to an authoritative and expansionist China and this balancing of the two Asian powers is reflected in the formation of the QUAD of India, US, Japan and Australia. The recognition of India as a Strategic Partner is an outcome of the designation of China as a competitor by the present Trump administration.&nbsp;

The US pivot to Asia precedes the Trump Presidency – and the focus on India, from President Bush to Obama and Trump. It also highlights the bipartisan support that India enjoys on Capitol. &nbsp;

In the recent past though, this has been strained with incidents with some political overtones, on Article 370 and Diversity, which India clearly views as internal matters. These issues may have local domestic political overtones fueled in no small measure by the hostile press that India has attracted in the recent past especially under Modi 2.0 government.&nbsp;

India has to clearly reach out and be proactive in putting forth the facts on Article 370, CAA and Diversity, to the US people to counter the narrative that is built based on part fact and part imagination such as the linkage of CAA with NRC/NPR.&nbsp;

Defence Trade: The defence trade between India &amp; US has moved from a few hundred thousand dollars to approx. $20 billion, if the present visit results in the widely anticipated sale of 24 MH60R helicopters for the Indian Navy and the 6 Apache helicopters for the Army Aviation – both deals which have been years in the making. However, with the present administration pulling out all stops – the anticipated sale of NASAM-II system, 30 Armed Sea Guardian drones, 6 more P8I aircraft with advanced onboard communication and surveillance systems and 13 Mk45 naval guns. &nbsp;

The cherry on the cake will be if the Indian Navy opts for FA 18 Super Hornet Block III, though the multi-role aircraft for IAF, with both Lockheed Martin and Boeing throwing their hats in the ring, may take more time than anticipated riding on the back of the sluggish economic growth with more funds being allocated for infrastructure and social sector.&nbsp;

The only threat to this otherwise thriving partnership could come from the potential acquisition of the S400 missile system by India – though the US has shown flexibility in the past in accommodation of key Indian strategic interests such as the Chabahar port for the land route to Afghanistan, support during Doklam crisis and the abrogation of Article 370, besides diplomatic support to Indian counter-terror initiatives, but S400 deal with Russia could test this resolve.&nbsp;

Energy has been an area of increased cooperation between India and the US, and the energy exports to India from the US (both oil and gas) have registered an impressive growth of nearly $8 billion and may touch $10 billion, with Petronet LNG ($2.5 billion) &nbsp;and other companies, investing a total of $4 billion in US &nbsp;and have contracted 9 million metric tons per annum of LNG. This has helped bridge the trade deficit and has the potential to meet the ever-growing demands of energy in India – both in conventional and non -conventional sources including Nuclear energy as a part of the clean energy initiative of the government. &nbsp;

Space is an area which has seen slow yet steady cooperation of ISRO with NASA, with the space agencies building the strategic NISAR satellite at an estimated cost of $1.5 billion for studying the hazards, environmental change and natural processes. NISAR will be launched aboard an Indian launch vehicle in 2022. India and the US have been collaborating on space missions, and space crafts have carried their scientific instruments. The confirmed discovery of water on the south surface of the moon is credited to Chandrayaan 1 which carried a NASA probe.&nbsp;

Space Industry: There is considerable scope for the Indian and US Space industry to work together leveraging their complementary strengths – marrying Indian frugal space engineering and lower costs of material, supply chain and production which as a significant small industry content, with the cutting edge technologies of US firms. &nbsp;

India and the US could potentially collaborate on the planned Indian space station as the ISS retires by 2030 and India’s planned space station is in place by that time. There could be planned human space flights as this is an area of interest for both the nations, moving forward.&nbsp;

Challenges: With all the good tidings, there are drags and challenges, to the growing partnership. Apart from US Administration’s desire to see India &amp; Pakistan engage more bilaterally, more so in view of the Afghanistan Peace Deal to be announced on February 29 and the impending withdrawal of US troops and the recent offers of mediation, US would like to see greater involvement of India in Afghanistan even though PM Modi has ruled out boots on ground and has its reservations on the role of Taliban in the new Afghan dispensation, which could embolden terror outfits in Kashmir, but India could support the new Afghan government in terms of assistance, lines of credit and trade through the Chabahar route.&nbsp;

Trade: Trade is a major challenge in the US –India bilateral relations. The US-India trade grew at 10 per cent annually for the last two years and crossed $160 billion in last year. The trade deficit – something that the present administration has constantly focused on, has narrowed by 9 per cent. Historically, India has had a trade surplus but it is changing with the US goods trade deficit with India was at $20.8 billion in 2018, a 9 per cent decrease ($2.1 billion) over 2017.&nbsp;

Though bilateral investment has room for much improvement but Indian companies have invested almost $18 Billion and created direct employment for US citizens, so have US companies in India. Major US companies as Google, Microsoft, GE, Honeywell, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Collins Aerospace have technology centers and joint ventures in India which have contributed to both the economies&nbsp;

The list of requests from the US TR is long with respect to access to the Indian markets, to single-brand retail, medical devices (reduction of duties /higher margins), pharma, insurance, banking and financial services. Higher FDI limits in the sectors not permitting more than 49 per cent FDI, data localisation, IPR protection, and e-commerce issues, have in the recent past been a bugbear for both the ministers – Lighthiser and Goyal. While India may have its share of issues such as the H1B visas for Indian technology giants, higher tariffs on aluminium &amp; metals, and the withdrawal of the GSP privileges.&nbsp;

President Trump has often quoted Indian tariffs and barriers, as an impediment. It is true that the US may be a more open market than India, but it can be said, that Indian tariff structure is WTO compliant with Japan and South Korea levying a higher tariff on certain goods. Apart from Harley &amp; Ford, there is scope for early outcomes in food, dairy, pharma, medical devices and IPR protection in trade talks between the two democracies.&nbsp;

Way Forward: Undoubtedly, these are barriers to entry and do not make for ease of doing business, but the way forward, could be - by breaking down into individual milestones, dividing their mutual interests into smaller segments, than to attempt a large all-encompassing deal that has been long in the making. &nbsp;

There is enough scope to work on this and the trade relationship between India and US is not a 100 meters dash but more akin to a long-distance marathon, where not stamina alone but technique, even pace and focusing each mile at a time ensures success.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

&nbsp;

The US India strategic partnership is based on shared values of democracy, common geopolitical interests, mutual respect and understanding, and marked by warmth and friendship between the political leadership and its people.

The US India strategic partnership is based on shared values of democracy, common geopolitical interests, mutual respect and understanding, and marked by warmth and friendship between the political leadership and its people. PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump have met eight times in the last 3 years, of which they met bilaterally 4 times in the last year. That, President Trump, has chosen to visit India, in a busy election year, when Presidencies are focused on their campaigns and domestic agenda, is an indicator of the level of mutual comfort and trust between the leaders. This visit may have more political and optic overtones than economic, but that does nothing to take away the bilateral significance of the visit, as well as, the significant progress made in the areas of strategic importance, like defence, counter-terror, security, oil & gas and trade ties. The key takeaways from the visit would probably be in the fields of Defence, Trade and Space. The deepening of the defence ties between the two nations has witnessed steady progression with the Defence Trade and Technology Initiative (DTTI), 2+2 dialogues, increased frequency of military exercises, moving from the annual YUDH ABHYAAS series to TIGER TRIUMPH – a tri-services joint exercise facilitated by the signing of the LEMOA and Communication, Compatibility & Security Agreement. It is expected, that TIGER TRIUMPH tri-service exercise with India will become an annual event and it is a vindication of the India’s emergence as the strategic partner of the US not only in the region but outside of NATO, as the only nation to have been given the status of major defence partner, to whom the US has consented to share sensitive military technologies, weapons and equipment – in no small means catalysed by the STA-1 status that India enjoys. Geopolitics: China, being the elephant in the room, the renaming of the PACOM as the Indo-Pacific Command is reflective of the growing strategic stature of India in US military strategy and for the enforcement of the free and open, rules-based international order in the Pacific region. There is the convergence of interest for India and US to limit the Chinese influence in the South Asian & ASEAN region. India has assiduously cultivated maritime security alliances with Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore in pursuit of a free to navigate the Pacific and Indian Ocean region and limiting the Chinese influence in the South China Sea. A free democratic and emergent power, India, is the ideal counterweight to an authoritative and expansionist China and this balancing of the two Asian powers is reflected in the formation of the QUAD of India, US, Japan and Australia. The recognition of India as a Strategic Partner is an outcome of the designation of China as a competitor by the present Trump administration. The US pivot to Asia precedes the Trump Presidency – and the focus on India, from President Bush to Obama and Trump. It also highlights the bipartisan support that India enjoys on Capitol. In the recent past though, this has been strained with incidents with some political overtones, on Article 370 and Diversity, which India clearly views as internal matters. These issues may have local domestic political overtones fueled in no small measure by the hostile press that India has attracted in the recent past especially under Modi 2.0 government. India has to clearly reach out and be proactive in putting forth the facts on Article 370, CAA and Diversity, to the US people to counter the narrative that is built based on part fact and part imagination such as the linkage of CAA with NRC/NPR. Defence Trade: The defence trade between India & US has moved from a few hundred thousand dollars to approx. $20 billion, if the present visit results in the widely anticipated sale of 24 MH60R helicopters for the Indian Navy and the 6 Apache helicopters for the Army Aviation – both deals which have been years in the making. However, with the present administration pulling out all stops – the anticipated sale of NASAM-II system, 30 Armed Sea Guardian drones, 6 more P8I aircraft with advanced onboard communication and surveillance systems and 13 Mk45 naval guns. The cherry on the cake will be if the Indian Navy opts for FA 18 Super Hornet Block III, though the multi-role aircraft for IAF, with both Lockheed Martin and Boeing throwing their hats in the ring, may take more time than anticipated riding on the back of the sluggish economic growth with more funds being allocated for infrastructure and social sector. The only threat to this otherwise thriving partnership could come from the potential acquisition of the S400 missile system by India – though the US has shown flexibility in the past in accommodation of key Indian strategic interests such as the Chabahar port for the land route to Afghanistan, support during Doklam crisis and the abrogation of Article 370, besides diplomatic support to Indian counter-terror initiatives, but S400 deal with Russia could test this resolve. Energy has been an area of increased cooperation between India and the US, and the energy exports to India from the US (both oil and gas) have registered an impressive growth of nearly $8 billion and may touch $10 billion, with Petronet LNG ($2.5 billion) and other companies, investing a total of $4 billion in US and have contracted 9 million metric tons per annum of LNG. This has helped bridge the trade deficit and has the potential to meet the ever-growing demands of energy in India – both in conventional and non -conventional sources including Nuclear energy as a part of the clean energy initiative of the government. Space is an area which has seen slow yet steady cooperation of ISRO with NASA, with the space agencies building the strategic NISAR satellite at an estimated cost of $1.5 billion for studying the hazards, environmental change and natural processes. NISAR will be launched aboard an Indian launch vehicle in 2022. India and the US have been collaborating on space missions, and space crafts have carried their scientific instruments. The confirmed discovery of water on the south surface of the moon is credited to Chandrayaan 1 which carried a NASA probe. Space Industry: There is considerable scope for the Indian and US Space industry to work together leveraging their complementary strengths – marrying Indian frugal space engineering and lower costs of material, supply chain and production which as a significant small industry content, with the cutting edge technologies of US firms. India and the US could potentially collaborate on the planned Indian space station as the ISS retires by 2030 and India’s planned space station is in place by that time. There could be planned human space flights as this is an area of interest for both the nations, moving forward. Challenges: With all the good tidings, there are drags and challenges, to the growing partnership. Apart from US Administration’s desire to see India & Pakistan engage more bilaterally, more so in view of the Afghanistan Peace Deal to be announced on February 29 and the impending withdrawal of US troops and the recent offers of mediation, US would like to see greater involvement of India in Afghanistan even though PM Modi has ruled out boots on ground and has its reservations on the role of Taliban in the new Afghan dispensation, which could embolden terror outfits in Kashmir, but India could support the new Afghan government in terms of assistance, lines of credit and trade through the Chabahar route. Trade: Trade is a major challenge in the US –India bilateral relations. The US-India trade grew at 10 per cent annually for the last two years and crossed $160 billion in last year. The trade deficit – something that the present administration has constantly focused on, has narrowed by 9 per cent. Historically, India has had a trade surplus but it is changing with the US goods trade deficit with India was at $20.8 billion in 2018, a 9 per cent decrease ($2.1 billion) over 2017. Though bilateral investment has room for much improvement but Indian companies have invested almost $18 Billion and created direct employment for US citizens, so have US companies in India. Major US companies as Google, Microsoft, GE, Honeywell, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Collins Aerospace have technology centers and joint ventures in India which have contributed to both the economies The list of requests from the US TR is long with respect to access to the Indian markets, to single-brand retail, medical devices (reduction of duties /higher margins), pharma, insurance, banking and financial services. Higher FDI limits in the sectors not permitting more than 49 per cent FDI, data localisation, IPR protection, and e-commerce issues, have in the recent past been a bugbear for both the ministers – Lighthiser and Goyal. While India may have its share of issues such as the H1B visas for Indian technology giants, higher tariffs on aluminium & metals, and the withdrawal of the GSP privileges. President Trump has often quoted Indian tariffs and barriers, as an impediment. It is true that the US may be a more open market than India, but it can be said, that Indian tariff structure is WTO compliant with Japan and South Korea levying a higher tariff on certain goods. Apart from Harley & Ford, there is scope for early outcomes in food, dairy, pharma, medical devices and IPR protection in trade talks between the two democracies. Way Forward: Undoubtedly, these are barriers to entry and do not make for ease of doing business, but the way forward, could be - by breaking down into individual milestones, dividing their mutual interests into smaller segments, than to attempt a large all-encompassing deal that has been long in the making. There is enough scope to work on this and the trade relationship between India and US is not a 100 meters dash but more akin to a long-distance marathon, where not stamina alone but technique, even pace and focusing each mile at a time ensures success. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Defence and trade will be the highlight of US President Donald Trump's India visit

Just days ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) approved a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-no-trade-deal-should-be-expected-during-donald-trumps-india-visit-281652">deal </a>to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed martin MH-60 Romeo helicopters from the US.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-in-a-hurry-for-a-trade-deal-says-india-ahead-of-trumps-visit-281638">Also Read:&nbsp;'Not in a hurry for a trade deal,' says India ahead of Trump's visit</a>

The deal is likely to be signed during Trump's two-day visit to India next week. The choppers equipped with hellfire air-to-surface missiles is expected to boost India's naval attack capability.

The helicopter for the Indian Navy is likely to be around $2.4 billion. Ahead of President Trump's visit, India said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal even as the US president said he was "saving the big deal for later on".

Watch Video:

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We’re doing a very big trade deal with India. We’ll have it. I don’t know if it’ll be done before the election, but we’ll have a very big deal with India," Trump told reporters in Washington.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preparations-in-full-swing-ahead-of-us-president-donald-trumps-india-visit-281468">Also Read: India to spend Rs 1.5 crore a minute during Trump's Ahmedabad visit</a>

India-US trade has been growing more than ten per cent per annum over the past two years and the trade deficit has been declining and expected to reduce as New Delhi imports more US oil and gas and purchase of civilian planes.&nbsp;

The US is India's sixth-largest importer of crude oil and India is now its fourth-largest customer.

Just days ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) approved a deal to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed martin MH-60 Romeo helicopters from the US.

Just days ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) approved a deal to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed martin MH-60 Romeo helicopters from the US. Also Read: 'Not in a hurry for a trade deal,' says India ahead of Trump's visit The deal is likely to be signed during Trump's two-day visit to India next week. The choppers equipped with hellfire air-to-surface missiles is expected to boost India's naval attack capability. The helicopter for the Indian Navy is likely to be around $2.4 billion. Ahead of President Trump's visit, India said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal even as the US president said he was "saving the big deal for later on". Watch Video: We’re doing a very big trade deal with India. We’ll have it. I don’t know if it’ll be done before the election, but we’ll have a very big deal with India," Trump told reporters in Washington. Also Read: India to spend Rs 1.5 crore a minute during Trump's Ahmedabad visit India-US trade has been growing more than ten per cent per annum over the past two years and the trade deficit has been declining and expected to reduce as New Delhi imports more US oil and gas and purchase of civilian planes. The US is India's sixth-largest importer of crude oil and India is now its fourth-largest customer.

Ahead of Trump's visit, cabinet committee on security approves US helicopter deal

Top democratic leader and speaker of US house of representatives Nancy Pelosi has lauded India-US ties and said support for New Delhi in the US Congress "is always bipartisan." Watch this video to know more.

Support for India in US Congress bipartisan: Nancy Pelosi

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/howdy-modi-in-houston-indian-parliamentarians-get-standing-ovation-for-scrapping-article-370-251364">India</a> and the US are committed to eradicate Islamic terrorism and to protect innocent civilians.

Addressing the issue of terrorism during the gala-event of 'Howdy Modi!' that was attended by more than 50,000 people in Houston, Trump stated that India and the US stand proudly in defence of liberty and "we are committed to protect innocent civilians from the threat of radical Islamic terrorism."

"To keep our communities safe, we must protect our borders Border security vital to the USA," he added.

Trump received a standing ovation from the Indian-American community over his remark.

Watch: Committed to fight radical Islamic terror, says Donald Trump

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The US President's comment holds importance as India last month reorganised Jammu and Kashmir to safeguard the region from the Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.

Trump also exuded confidence in the Prime Minister and said that Modi is doing a great job with the people of India.

"To keep our security safe we must protect our borders. Border security is vital to the two countries," he added.

He also said that the US has also increased its defence sales to India. India and America will also increase its space cooperation, the President assured, adding that the two countries will also hold a tri-service military exercise in November.

Upon his arrival, Trump was welcomed by PM Modi who hailed the US President for his sense of leadership.

PM Modi, in his style, vouched for Trump ahead of 2020 presidential polls, saying "ab ki baar Trump sarkar" - modifying the 'Ab ki Baar Modi sarkar' slogan coined for the 2014 BJP election campaign.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that India and the US are committed to eradicate Islamic terrorism and to protect innocent civilians. Addressing the issue of terrorism during the gala-event of 'Howdy Modi!

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that India and the US are committed to eradicate Islamic terrorism and to protect innocent civilians. Addressing the issue of terrorism during the gala-event of 'Howdy Modi!' that was attended by more than 50,000 people in Houston, Trump stated that India and the US stand proudly in defence of liberty and "we are committed to protect innocent civilians from the threat of radical Islamic terrorism." "To keep our communities safe, we must protect our borders Border security vital to the USA," he added. Trump received a standing ovation from the Indian-American community over his remark. Watch: Committed to fight radical Islamic terror, says Donald Trump The US President's comment holds importance as India last month reorganised Jammu and Kashmir to safeguard the region from the Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Trump also exuded confidence in the Prime Minister and said that Modi is doing a great job with the people of India. "To keep our security safe we must protect our borders. Border security is vital to the two countries," he added. He also said that the US has also increased its defence sales to India. India and America will also increase its space cooperation, the President assured, adding that the two countries will also hold a tri-service military exercise in November. Upon his arrival, Trump was welcomed by PM Modi who hailed the US President for his sense of leadership. PM Modi, in his style, vouched for Trump ahead of 2020 presidential polls, saying "ab ki baar Trump sarkar" - modifying the 'Ab ki Baar Modi sarkar' slogan coined for the 2014 BJP election campaign.

India, US committed to protect innocents from radical Islamic terrorism, says Trump at 'Howdy Modi!'

In front of a plethora of US Leaders and President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/howdy-modi-us-president-donald-trump-hints-he-might-visit-india-for-nba-next-month-251328">Donald Trump</a> himself, Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly reiterated that his government's move to bid farewell to Article 370 was aimed at ending 2 things - discrimination and terrorism.

Addressing the “<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/border-security-vital-for-both-us-and-india-says-trump-at-howdy-modi-event-in-houston-251331">Howdy, Mody</a>” event in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usa-loves-india-tweets-trump-after-howdy-modi-event-in-houston-251332">Houston</a>, Prime Minister Modi told the crowd to give a standing ovation to Indian parliamentarians for ensuring the nod to repeal key provisions of Article 370 that deal with Jammu and Kashmir.

The prime minister counted the move in Jammu and Kashmir as one of the major achievements of his government within its first 100 days.

He said that Article 370 had kept people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh away from the development and equal rights.

Watch: Loud cheers as PM Modi mentions Article 370

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"Separatist leaders and terrorism were taking advantage of this situation. Now, the people there are getting the same rights as enjoyed by the rest of the nation," PM Modi added.

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In pics: Sending a strong anti-terror message, <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> said, "We will jointly fight radical Islamic terrorists"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ModiInHouston?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ModiInHouston</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HowdyModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HowdyModi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USADirect?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USADirect</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a><a href="https://t.co/kiZEyjtLrk">https://t.co/kiZEyjtLrk</a>
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The issue of abrogation of article 370 had also resonated in the US. With President Trump too making a mention.

New Delhi had given a firm reminder that the Kashmir issue was a bilateral one between India and Pakistan and the current changes were part of an effort to bring development to the state where terrorism had flourished.

Launching a scathing attack at the Imran Khan government which has been flagging Kashmir at various international forums - including the United Nations, PM Modi said that 'What India is doing has troubled some people who can't even manage their own country'.

This remark drew loud cheers from the audience at the event.

Without naming Pakistan again - the Prime Minister said that one country (Pakistan) has made its hatred towards India the centre of their agenda.

Ever since Modi government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status, Pakistan has left no stone unturned to internationalise the issue.&nbsp;

However, to its embarrassment, Islamabad failed to garner support from the international community. Several countries, including the USA, have dubbed abrogation of article 370 as India's internal matter.

In front of a plethora of US Leaders and President Donald Trump himself, Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly reiterated that his government's move to bid farewell to Article 370 was aimed at ending 2 things - discrimination and terrorism.

In front of a plethora of US Leaders and President Donald Trump himself, Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly reiterated that his government's move to bid farewell to Article 370 was aimed at ending 2 things - discrimination and terrorism. Addressing the “Howdy, Mody” event in Houston, Prime Minister Modi told the crowd to give a standing ovation to Indian parliamentarians for ensuring the nod to repeal key provisions of Article 370 that deal with Jammu and Kashmir. The prime minister counted the move in Jammu and Kashmir as one of the major achievements of his government within its first 100 days. He said that Article 370 had kept people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh away from the development and equal rights. Watch: Loud cheers as PM Modi mentions Article 370 "Separatist leaders and terrorism were taking advantage of this situation. Now, the people there are getting the same rights as enjoyed by the rest of the nation," PM Modi added. In pics: Sending a strong anti-terror message, @realDonaldTrump said, "We will jointly fight radical Islamic terrorists"#ModiInHouston #HowdyModi#USADirect @narendramodihttps://t.co/kiZEyjtLrk — WION (@WIONews) September 22, 2019 × The issue of abrogation of article 370 had also resonated in the US. With President Trump too making a mention. New Delhi had given a firm reminder that the Kashmir issue was a bilateral one between India and Pakistan and the current changes were part of an effort to bring development to the state where terrorism had flourished. Launching a scathing attack at the Imran Khan government which has been flagging Kashmir at various international forums - including the United Nations, PM Modi said that 'What India is doing has troubled some people who can't even manage their own country'. This remark drew loud cheers from the audience at the event. Without naming Pakistan again - the Prime Minister said that one country (Pakistan) has made its hatred towards India the centre of their agenda. Ever since Modi government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status, Pakistan has left no stone unturned to internationalise the issue. However, to its embarrassment, Islamabad failed to garner support from the international community. Several countries, including the USA, have dubbed abrogation of article 370 as India's internal matter.

'Howdy, Modi' in Houston: Indian Parliamentarians get standing ovation for scrapping Article 370

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (local time) hailed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/investment-border-security-pro-growth-policies-donald-trumps-speech-at-howdy-modi-251341">Indian-American communit</a>y for its contributions in providing new heights and dynamics to the warm and friendly ties shared by India and the United States.

"You all have set the stage for a glorious future as far as India-USA ties are concerned. I thank you all for your team-work," the Prime Minister told the crowd gathered at the community reception in Houston.

Earlier today, Modi inaugurated the Eternal Gandhi Museum, during an event organised by the Indian community here.

Watch: Howdy Modi Event - Trump calls Modi 'the most loyal friend'

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Citing the relevance of the Mahatma's principles in the contemporary world, the Prime Minister said, "The Eternal Gandhi museum will be a prized cultural landmark in Houston. I have been associated with this effort for a while. It will surely make Gandhi Ji's&nbsp;thoughts popular among the youth."

During the same event, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the Gujarati Samaj of Houston Event Centre and Shri Siddhi Vinayak Temple in the US city of Texas.

"Wherever we go, we should stay connected with our mother tongue, it has its own strength. You're making a centre for Gujarati community, I request you to never grow distant from your mother tongue. This effort should be continuous for the upcoming generations," Modi stressed.

In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister further urged the Indian Diaspora to send at least five non-Indian families to India as tourists.

The Prime Minister said, "People don't visit a country after looking into maps. They do after somebody tells them about a place and its attractions.

"The reception follows the 'Howdy, Modi!'&nbsp;at NRG Stadium that saw nearly 50,000 people attending gala-event. The Indian Prime Minister shared the stage with US President Donald Trump and addressed issues such as terrorism, border security and energy cooperation between the two countries.

The Prime Minister has now emplaned for New York to attend the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (local time) hailed the Indian-American community for its contributions in providing new heights and dynamics to the warm and friendly ties shared by India and the United States.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (local time) hailed the Indian-American community for its contributions in providing new heights and dynamics to the warm and friendly ties shared by India and the United States. "You all have set the stage for a glorious future as far as India-USA ties are concerned. I thank you all for your team-work," the Prime Minister told the crowd gathered at the community reception in Houston. Earlier today, Modi inaugurated the Eternal Gandhi Museum, during an event organised by the Indian community here. Watch: Howdy Modi Event - Trump calls Modi 'the most loyal friend' × Citing the relevance of the Mahatma's principles in the contemporary world, the Prime Minister said, "The Eternal Gandhi museum will be a prized cultural landmark in Houston. I have been associated with this effort for a while. It will surely make Gandhi Ji's thoughts popular among the youth." During the same event, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the Gujarati Samaj of Houston Event Centre and Shri Siddhi Vinayak Temple in the US city of Texas. "Wherever we go, we should stay connected with our mother tongue, it has its own strength. You're making a centre for Gujarati community, I request you to never grow distant from your mother tongue. This effort should be continuous for the upcoming generations," Modi stressed. In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister further urged the Indian Diaspora to send at least five non-Indian families to India as tourists. The Prime Minister said, "People don't visit a country after looking into maps. They do after somebody tells them about a place and its attractions. "The reception follows the 'Howdy, Modi!' at NRG Stadium that saw nearly 50,000 people attending gala-event. The Indian Prime Minister shared the stage with US President Donald Trump and addressed issues such as terrorism, border security and energy cooperation between the two countries. The Prime Minister has now emplaned for New York to attend the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

PM Modi hails Indian community's contribution in strengthening India-US ties

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-visit-south-korea-as-pompeo-raises-hope-for-new-north-korea-talks-after-letter-230158">Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India.

Congressman Eliot L Engel, Chairman of House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in a letter urged Pompeo to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential.

"I am deeply concerned by the inconsistencies between the administration's rhetoric and actions toward India, which are further exacerbated by the lack of a confirmed assistant secretary more than two years into this administration's term," Engel said in his letter to Pompeo.

H said tensions have increased over each side's tariff policies, starting with the US "Section 232" tariffs on steel and aluminum.

There is a growing view that the administration is attempting to coerce India into complying with the US demands on a variety of issues, rather than negotiating with them as a strategic partner, Engel said.

Watch:&nbsp;Mike Pompeo to arrive in India on Tuesday; all eyes on strengthening defence ties

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"The threats to strip India of its privileges under the Generalized System of Preferences in the middle of the country's general election has furthered the notion that the administration sees the India relationship as a transactional one. And the decision to end waivers related to the US sanctions on Iran could alienate India when we need to be working with our partners to prevent destabilising Iranian activities," he said.

According to the top head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the administration's policies have not only failed to advance the US objectives, but have also introduced significant friction in its partnership with New Delhi.&nbsp;

The trade concerns are real, and the United States must continue to work with the Indian government on market access and other important issues like international child abduction and human rights, he said.&nbsp;

"But the administration must also demonstrate a predictable, coherent, and consistent strategy that strengthens the US-India cooperation, especially in areas where our interests and values align. It's critical that American engagement support those in India who seek to further strengthen India's ties to the United States," Engel demanded.

The measure and strength of bilateral relationships, he argued, cannot be boiled down to trade deficits and tariffs.

The inconsistent US approach toward India risks setting back the strategic partnership that the two countries have worked for decades to cultivate, he added.&nbsp;

"I urge you to use your visit to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential," Engel said.&nbsp;

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India.

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India. Congressman Eliot L Engel, Chairman of House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in a letter urged Pompeo to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential. "I am deeply concerned by the inconsistencies between the administration's rhetoric and actions toward India, which are further exacerbated by the lack of a confirmed assistant secretary more than two years into this administration's term," Engel said in his letter to Pompeo. H said tensions have increased over each side's tariff policies, starting with the US "Section 232" tariffs on steel and aluminum. There is a growing view that the administration is attempting to coerce India into complying with the US demands on a variety of issues, rather than negotiating with them as a strategic partner, Engel said. Watch: Mike Pompeo to arrive in India on Tuesday; all eyes on strengthening defence ties "The threats to strip India of its privileges under the Generalized System of Preferences in the middle of the country's general election has furthered the notion that the administration sees the India relationship as a transactional one. And the decision to end waivers related to the US sanctions on Iran could alienate India when we need to be working with our partners to prevent destabilising Iranian activities," he said. According to the top head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the administration's policies have not only failed to advance the US objectives, but have also introduced significant friction in its partnership with New Delhi. The trade concerns are real, and the United States must continue to work with the Indian government on market access and other important issues like international child abduction and human rights, he said. "But the administration must also demonstrate a predictable, coherent, and consistent strategy that strengthens the US-India cooperation, especially in areas where our interests and values align. It's critical that American engagement support those in India who seek to further strengthen India's ties to the United States," Engel demanded. The measure and strength of bilateral relationships, he argued, cannot be boiled down to trade deficits and tariffs. The inconsistent US approach toward India risks setting back the strategic partnership that the two countries have worked for decades to cultivate, he added. "I urge you to use your visit to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential," Engel said.

Lack of predictability, coherence in India-US strategic ties: Congressman tells Pompeo ahead of visit

Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon has said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/industry/india-can-benefit-from-us-china-trade-war-kkr-chief-183580">India is going to be a key ally</a> of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-warns-us-china-trade-war-will-jeopardize-2019-global-growth-221117">United States in countering China's hegemony</a> as it fights a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rare-earths-the-latest-weapon-in-the-us-china-trade-war-222578"> trade war</a>.

Speaking exclusively to WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon said, "I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering the economic war with China and India is going to be a key ally of that. If there is any country in the world that's exposed to this expansionist mentality of this radical cadre of the Chinese Communist Party which controls China, is India. And I think that Modi and Trump will be two natural allies."

Bannon said that China has been running in an economic war with the United States and the US is not going to back down. "The United States is now engaged with China on this economic war that China has been running against other democracies in the West and also Japan, India and other of the western allies. The Chinese, with western capital and western technology, is trying to become a hegemonic power in the Pacific and on the landmass Eurasia. We are trying to find out depths of what is going on in this Belt and Road situation. But I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering this economic war with China," he said.

Since last year, the United States and China have been locked in a trade conflict as Washington seeks to fix the trade balance, currently tilted in favour of Beijing. The two nations have raised or threatened to raise tariffs on each other's goods, moves that could re-draw trade flows and that have threatened to derail the global economy.

An analysis by S&amp;P Global Market Intelligence's trade data firm Panjiva showed recently that American companies are shifting purchases of affected products including furniture, refrigerators and car tyres to countries such as Vietnam and South Korea.

With the latest US tariffs on Chinese goods, India fears Beijing could also re-route exports of electronic items, toys, furniture and organic chemicals to India through other Southeast Asian nations.

Negotiations between the United States and China have soured dramatically since early May when Chinese officials sought major changes to the text of a proposed deal that the Trump administration says had been largely agreed.

A subsequent round of talks ended with no movement as US President Donald Trump increased tariffs to 25 per cent from 10 per cent on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports and threatened to impose duties on all remaining Chinese goods sold in the United States.

Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon has said that India is going to be a key ally of the United States in countering China's hegemony as it fights a trade war.

Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon has said that India is going to be a key ally of the United States in countering China's hegemony as it fights a trade war. Speaking exclusively to WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon said, "I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering the economic war with China and India is going to be a key ally of that. If there is any country in the world that's exposed to this expansionist mentality of this radical cadre of the Chinese Communist Party which controls China, is India. And I think that Modi and Trump will be two natural allies." Bannon said that China has been running in an economic war with the United States and the US is not going to back down. "The United States is now engaged with China on this economic war that China has been running against other democracies in the West and also Japan, India and other of the western allies. The Chinese, with western capital and western technology, is trying to become a hegemonic power in the Pacific and on the landmass Eurasia. We are trying to find out depths of what is going on in this Belt and Road situation. But I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering this economic war with China," he said. Since last year, the United States and China have been locked in a trade conflict as Washington seeks to fix the trade balance, currently tilted in favour of Beijing. The two nations have raised or threatened to raise tariffs on each other's goods, moves that could re-draw trade flows and that have threatened to derail the global economy. An analysis by S&P Global Market Intelligence's trade data firm Panjiva showed recently that American companies are shifting purchases of affected products including furniture, refrigerators and car tyres to countries such as Vietnam and South Korea. With the latest US tariffs on Chinese goods, India fears Beijing could also re-route exports of electronic items, toys, furniture and organic chemicals to India through other Southeast Asian nations. Negotiations between the United States and China have soured dramatically since early May when Chinese officials sought major changes to the text of a proposed deal that the Trump administration says had been largely agreed. A subsequent round of talks ended with no movement as US President Donald Trump increased tariffs to 25 per cent from 10 per cent on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports and threatened to impose duties on all remaining Chinese goods sold in the United States.

US-China trade war: India a key US ally to counter China's hegemony, Steve Bannon tells WION

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/after-nehru-and-indira-modi-becomes-third-prime-minister-to-return-to-power-with-huge-mandate-221300"> electoral victory this year</a> which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections.

Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist and media mogul, has said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-pm-modi-made-the-election-a-referendum-on-his-leadership-says-foreign-media-221210">western media is absolutely stunned by PM Modi's victory</a>. In an exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon, the former executive chairman of Breitbart News, said he has been incredibly impressed with Modi.

"When Modi first won five years ago, I was very proud of the fact that Breitbart, which is conservating and right-wing website in the United States, covered that election very closely. The day he won we put a headline that he was 'India's Reagan'. And I have been incredibly impressed with Modi since the first day I heard him and started following him in Indian politics. I would tell the people in India what I believe just happened is exactly like Ronald Reagan's second win in 1984 - his major landslide which is about him and personally the job he had done," Bannon said.

I think the western media is absolutely stunned by the scale of the Modi victory, he added.

Bannon said Modi's victory is good news for US-India relationship.

"It only bodes well for the future relationship between India and the United States. But the people of India should understand - you come with a lot of power, you have empowered Modi. Right now, on the world stage, I think he is one of the most powerful politicians, simply for the fact - not just how powerful India is but the mandate that Indian people gave him for the second term," he said.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Modi, won 303 of the 542 Lok Sabha (lower house of Indian Parliament) seats in the April-May election. Together with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies, the number of seats rose to a staggering 354. The win gave his party the first back-to-back majority for a single party since 1984.

His re-election reinforces a global trend of right-wing populists sweeping to victory, from the United States to Brazil and Italy.

Modi was showered with rose petals by some of the thousands of cheering supporters who waited for hours in a thunderstorm for his arrival at party headquarters after the results were announced on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an electoral victory this year which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an electoral victory this year which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections. Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist and media mogul, has said that the western media is absolutely stunned by PM Modi's victory. In an exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon, the former executive chairman of Breitbart News, said he has been incredibly impressed with Modi. "When Modi first won five years ago, I was very proud of the fact that Breitbart, which is conservating and right-wing website in the United States, covered that election very closely. The day he won we put a headline that he was 'India's Reagan'. And I have been incredibly impressed with Modi since the first day I heard him and started following him in Indian politics. I would tell the people in India what I believe just happened is exactly like Ronald Reagan's second win in 1984 - his major landslide which is about him and personally the job he had done," Bannon said. I think the western media is absolutely stunned by the scale of the Modi victory, he added. Bannon said Modi's victory is good news for US-India relationship. "It only bodes well for the future relationship between India and the United States. But the people of India should understand - you come with a lot of power, you have empowered Modi. Right now, on the world stage, I think he is one of the most powerful politicians, simply for the fact - not just how powerful India is but the mandate that Indian people gave him for the second term," he said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Modi, won 303 of the 542 Lok Sabha (lower house of Indian Parliament) seats in the April-May election. Together with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies, the number of seats rose to a staggering 354. The win gave his party the first back-to-back majority for a single party since 1984. His re-election reinforces a global trend of right-wing populists sweeping to victory, from the United States to Brazil and Italy. Modi was showered with rose petals by some of the thousands of cheering supporters who waited for hours in a thunderstorm for his arrival at party headquarters after the results were announced on May 23.

Impressed with Modi, his victory bodes well for India-US ties: Steve Bannon to WION

The new Indian ambassador to United States Harsh V. Shringla has lauded the role of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/relationship-between-india-us-is-on-a-very-positive-track-former-us-defence-secretary-william-cohen-195876">India caucus in strengthening India-US ties</a>. He was speaking at a Congressional Reception at Capitol Hill hosted by the co-chairs of the Senate India caucus and Congressional caucus on India and Indian-Americans Senator John Cornyn, Senator Mark Warner, Congressman Brad Sherman and Congressman George Holding.

The event was attended by an unprecedented 67 members of Congress, including Senators.

Recalling the "sterling role" played by the India caucus in "getting us past the finish line" on the civil nuclear agreement, the ambassador Shringla said,"the designation of India as a major defence partner was also codified into law by the US Congress in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2017, thanks to the unstinting support of the members of the India caucus."

In the US House of Representatives, the India caucus was founded in 1993 by Congressman Frank Pallone of New Jersey and Congressman Bill McCollum of Florida.

In the Senate, the caucus was founded by Senator Cornyn and Senator Hillary Clinton in 2004. The bi-partisan India caucus is the largest country-specific caucus at the Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

Talking about India-US ties, Shringla said, since 2008, the US has "bagged more than $18 billion in arms contracts with India including the C-17 Globemaster and C-130J transport planes, P-8 (I) maritime reconnaissance aircraft, M777 light-weight howitzer, Harpoon missiles and Apache and Chinook helicopters."

Private airlines in India has placed orders for 300 Boeing aircraft to be delivered over next 5 to 7 years whose total cost will be $39 billion and create 130,000 American Jobs. India has already started the import of US crude and natural gas worth $ 4.5 billion every year.

On geopolitics, ambassador Shringla said, India and US are "working closely in the Indo-Pacific including with our partners Japan and Australia" and in "Afghanistan, we have invested $3 billion for economic development and reconstruction efforts that are essential to bringing lasting peace and stability to the country."

The bilateral trade between India and the US currently stand at $140 billion with US exports to India growing around two-and-a-half times faster than Indian exports to the US.

The new Indian ambassador to United States Harsh V. Shringla has lauded the role of India caucus in strengthening India-US ties. He was speaking at a Congressional Reception at Capitol Hill hosted by the co-chairs of the Senate India caucus and Congressional caucus on India and Indian-Americans Senator John Cornyn, Senator Mark Warner, Congressman Brad Sherman and Congressman George Holding.

The new Indian ambassador to United States Harsh V. Shringla has lauded the role of India caucus in strengthening India-US ties. He was speaking at a Congressional Reception at Capitol Hill hosted by the co-chairs of the Senate India caucus and Congressional caucus on India and Indian-Americans Senator John Cornyn, Senator Mark Warner, Congressman Brad Sherman and Congressman George Holding. The event was attended by an unprecedented 67 members of Congress, including Senators. Recalling the "sterling role" played by the India caucus in "getting us past the finish line" on the civil nuclear agreement, the ambassador Shringla said,"the designation of India as a major defence partner was also codified into law by the US Congress in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2017, thanks to the unstinting support of the members of the India caucus." In the US House of Representatives, the India caucus was founded in 1993 by Congressman Frank Pallone of New Jersey and Congressman Bill McCollum of Florida. In the Senate, the caucus was founded by Senator Cornyn and Senator Hillary Clinton in 2004. The bi-partisan India caucus is the largest country-specific caucus at the Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Talking about India-US ties, Shringla said, since 2008, the US has "bagged more than $18 billion in arms contracts with India including the C-17 Globemaster and C-130J transport planes, P-8 (I) maritime reconnaissance aircraft, M777 light-weight howitzer, Harpoon missiles and Apache and Chinook helicopters." Private airlines in India has placed orders for 300 Boeing aircraft to be delivered over next 5 to 7 years whose total cost will be $39 billion and create 130,000 American Jobs. India has already started the import of US crude and natural gas worth $ 4.5 billion every year. On geopolitics, ambassador Shringla said, India and US are "working closely in the Indo-Pacific including with our partners Japan and Australia" and in "Afghanistan, we have invested $3 billion for economic development and reconstruction efforts that are essential to bringing lasting peace and stability to the country." The bilateral trade between India and the US currently stand at $140 billion with US exports to India growing around two-and-a-half times faster than Indian exports to the US.

New India ambassador to US Harsh Shringla lauds role of India caucus 'to get past finish line'

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