Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit the United States of America this week on 21 June at the invitation of US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. They will host Modi at a state dinner on 22 June. Several thousand Indian Americans are expected to attend the Welcome Ceremony on the South Lawns of the White House on Thursday when President Biden and First Lady Dr Jill Biden welcome him.

PM Modi’s US visit: Planning to visit India next year,' says Elon Musk after meeting PM Modi

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: Britain will host the latest Ukraine Recovery Conference in London on June 21 and 22 June. It is an international event focussed on the recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine, attended by governments, international organisations, and the private sector. Modi left on Tuesday on a state visit to the US billed as a turning point for bilateral relations, with deeper cooperation in defence and high technology in focus.

Ukraine reconstruction conference in UK | Landmark state visit: Indian PM in US

“How do you solve a problem like Pakeeestaan!” I do feel like singing aloud a parody of that famous song from ‘The Sound of Music’ that goes “How do you solve a problem like Maria!” 
 
As Indian prime minister Narendra Modi kicks off what seems like a promising strategic visit to the US, I wonder how strategic this is. That 'S' word is an overused one better measured in outcomes and ground-level action rather than fancy phrases of diplomats whose facility with glib words is a core competency that often gives away little in reality. 
 
While it is true that relations between the world’s top democracies have come a long way since the lows of the 1970s, and is now poised for new-age cooperation in technology and defence, I would still look out for the ultimate test: how the two deal with Pakistan. 
 
“Stronger together” is a nice way to describe the current cosiness between Washington and New Delhi in a geopolitical gambit to contain Chinese influence in Asia.&nbsp;But Mr. Modi needs to be gently reminded that Indo-American ties may be making history but geography is a different matter altogether. 
 
Geography does matter because India stands right next to Pakistan and right below China on the world map. Things have indeed come a long way since the 1990s when the US ignored Indian warnings and intelligence reports of growing Islamic militancy in the Afghanistan-Pakistan (AfPak) area that bit into Kashmir. Uncle Sam then was mentioned as a possible (not probable) mediator in India’s Kashmir dispute with Pakistan.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-india-has-vibrant-democracy-both-nations-will-continue-to-work-on-bilateral-relations-606720">ALSO READ|&nbsp;US says 'India has vibrant democracy,' both nations will continue to work on bilateral relations</a> 
 
Though the US didn’t play ball, there was a lot of superpower superciliousness in its behaviour. The 9/11 attacks was a rude awakening for the US and the rise of India's information technology and pharmaceutical industries showed strong business relations that put behind Cold War animosities. Nuclear tests by India in 1998 were a setback that was turned on its head in 2006 by a bilateral nuclear deal when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met his counterpart George W Bush. 
 
However, have things really, I mean really, changed from those days in a geopolitical sense? For me, the answer to that would depend on how the US relates to India on the Pakistan question in the coming days. 
 
For the record, at the UN, China has just supported Pakistan in stopping the blacklisting of 26/11 Mumbai attack conspirator Sajid Mir of the officially banned but unofficially entertained Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba. Beijing this month offered $1 billion to Islamabad in what looks like a rollover of an old loan. This is only part of a long list of economic investments and aid tying Pakistan to the Dragon’s apron strings. 
 
When the buck stops it is India’s neighbourhood that gets tense when Pakistan and China form an uneasy alliance between a shaky democracy and one that is not. The US is a faraway power that flew out of Afghanistan only recently after a messy couple of decades setting up military support that failed miserably with the return to power of the Taliban. 
 
India and the US now need to co-engage Pakistan in subtle ways so that bilateral interests are best served for regional stability. 
 
This means three things. First, a clear signal must go out inside and from the State Department that strategic engagement with India puts it at a different level where it is a part of the subcontinental solution and not part of the problem as it was once perceived to be. Second, the US with Indian guidance or partnership, must move to engage Pakistan beyond the arms of its state such as the government or the military. Pakistan needs social reform alongside political reform for long-term democratic governance and stability.&nbsp; 
 
Thirdly, economic aid through institutions like the IMF and World Bank may be used as levers with what I call creative diplomacy to reform Pakistan socially. This would require a structural adjustment going beyond the usual macroeconomic stability that the IMF prescribes in its one-size-fits-all approach. This requires social, diplomatic and cultural chutzpah that requires civilisational understanding of South Asia. Failing this we will have only short-term band-aid diplomacy. 
 
This is not the right time to discuss the details of what is going on inside Pakistan's murky political corridors. &nbsp;But this much can be said: without broad-basing Pakistan’s civil society, social fabric and economic middle classes, the country will remain in the grip of decadent feudal lords, opportunistic generals, self-serving politicians and assorted obscurantists. Each of these will happily serve Chinese interests unless they are approached with a sense of detail. Pakistan is not as homogenous as assumed by conventional diplomats. 
 
Some out-of-the-box thinking is required urgently.

(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.)&nbsp;

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“How do you solve a problem like Pakeeestaan!” I do feel like singing aloud a parody of that famous song from ‘The Sound of Music’ that goes “How do you solve a problem like Maria!

“How do you solve a problem like Pakeeestaan!” I do feel like singing aloud a parody of that famous song from ‘The Sound of Music’ that goes “How do you solve a problem like Maria!” As Indian prime minister Narendra Modi kicks off what seems like a promising strategic visit to the US, I wonder how strategic this is. That 'S' word is an overused one better measured in outcomes and ground-level action rather than fancy phrases of diplomats whose facility with glib words is a core competency that often gives away little in reality. While it is true that relations between the world’s top democracies have come a long way since the lows of the 1970s, and is now poised for new-age cooperation in technology and defence, I would still look out for the ultimate test: how the two deal with Pakistan. “Stronger together” is a nice way to describe the current cosiness between Washington and New Delhi in a geopolitical gambit to contain Chinese influence in Asia. But Mr. Modi needs to be gently reminded that Indo-American ties may be making history but geography is a different matter altogether. Geography does matter because India stands right next to Pakistan and right below China on the world map. Things have indeed come a long way since the 1990s when the US ignored Indian warnings and intelligence reports of growing Islamic militancy in the Afghanistan-Pakistan (AfPak) area that bit into Kashmir. Uncle Sam then was mentioned as a possible (not probable) mediator in India’s Kashmir dispute with Pakistan. ALSO READ| US says 'India has vibrant democracy,' both nations will continue to work on bilateral relations Though the US didn’t play ball, there was a lot of superpower superciliousness in its behaviour. The 9/11 attacks was a rude awakening for the US and the rise of India's information technology and pharmaceutical industries showed strong business relations that put behind Cold War animosities. Nuclear tests by India in 1998 were a setback that was turned on its head in 2006 by a bilateral nuclear deal when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met his counterpart George W Bush. However, have things really, I mean really, changed from those days in a geopolitical sense? For me, the answer to that would depend on how the US relates to India on the Pakistan question in the coming days. For the record, at the UN, China has just supported Pakistan in stopping the blacklisting of 26/11 Mumbai attack conspirator Sajid Mir of the officially banned but unofficially entertained Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba. Beijing this month offered $1 billion to Islamabad in what looks like a rollover of an old loan. This is only part of a long list of economic investments and aid tying Pakistan to the Dragon’s apron strings. When the buck stops it is India’s neighbourhood that gets tense when Pakistan and China form an uneasy alliance between a shaky democracy and one that is not. The US is a faraway power that flew out of Afghanistan only recently after a messy couple of decades setting up military support that failed miserably with the return to power of the Taliban. India and the US now need to co-engage Pakistan in subtle ways so that bilateral interests are best served for regional stability. This means three things. First, a clear signal must go out inside and from the State Department that strategic engagement with India puts it at a different level where it is a part of the subcontinental solution and not part of the problem as it was once perceived to be. Second, the US with Indian guidance or partnership, must move to engage Pakistan beyond the arms of its state such as the government or the military. Pakistan needs social reform alongside political reform for long-term democratic governance and stability. Thirdly, economic aid through institutions like the IMF and World Bank may be used as levers with what I call creative diplomacy to reform Pakistan socially. This would require a structural adjustment going beyond the usual macroeconomic stability that the IMF prescribes in its one-size-fits-all approach. This requires social, diplomatic and cultural chutzpah that requires civilisational understanding of South Asia. Failing this we will have only short-term band-aid diplomacy. This is not the right time to discuss the details of what is going on inside Pakistan's murky political corridors. But this much can be said: without broad-basing Pakistan’s civil society, social fabric and economic middle classes, the country will remain in the grip of decadent feudal lords, opportunistic generals, self-serving politicians and assorted obscurantists. Each of these will happily serve Chinese interests unless they are approached with a sense of detail. Pakistan is not as homogenous as assumed by conventional diplomats. Some out-of-the-box thinking is required urgently. (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

Modi in the US marks a new high in India ties but engagement with Pakistan is the real test

Speaking to WION, Kőrösi said that the yoga session is expected to witness a massive attendance with leading personalities and envoys from at least 180 countries participating in the event.

WION Exclusive: UNGA President Csaba Korosi highlights the significance of Yoga day

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - US reports rise in homelessness, PM Modi departs for the United States.

Prime Minister Modi's US Visit | US reports rise in homelessness

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for the United States for a visit that is being billed as a turning point for Washington-New Delhi bilateral relations.&nbsp;

As the Indian PM embarks on a visit that is anticipated to provide India with access to essential American technologies typically shared only with allied nations — a development that will enhance the growing relationship between the two countries — let's take a look at Modi's previous visits to the US.

<h2>Narendra Modi in US: The current visit</h2>

To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India.

However, the visit from June 21 to June 24 holds special importance due to its classification as a 'state visit,' which, as per diplomatic protocol, is the highest-ranked visit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-9-years-more-than-100-trips-here-are-indian-pm-narendra-modis-foreign-visits-in-numbers-604764">Explained: 9 years, over a 100 trips. A look at Indian PM Narendra Modi's foreign tours in numbers</a>

<h2>Modi in US: The previous visits</h2>

26–30 September 2014

In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, for what was categorised as a working visit. During the visit, delivered his maiden speech in the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly on 27 September 2014.

<img alt="Modi UN speech 2014" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2a000f2-6d24-4e90-9d20-9017401a8451" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2_32.png" />

As per the UN website, in his speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the global surge of democracy, expressed India's willingness to engage in bilateral dialogue with Pakistan, emphasised the need for global partnership to combat terrorism and pursue inclusive development, and promoted the practice of yoga for a sustainable world.

He also met with the-then US President Barack Obama and sought investment from prominent CEOs.

<img alt="Modi-Obama first meet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="040daa79-fe8e-4cdb-b396-44d28fc4df85" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1_28.png" />

24–30 September 2015

In 2015, Narendra Modi commenced his visit to the United States of America on September 24th. It was part of a trans-Atlantic trip that included a visit to Ireland.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-us-share-unprecedented-trust-says-prime-minister-narendra-modi-606318">India and US share ‘unprecedented’ trust, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>

During the first leg of the visit, in New York, he had a roundtable meeting with top American CEOs from the financial sector. As per narendramodi.in, he also had "extensive talks" with the-then PM of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, PM of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves and Guyana resident David Arthur Granger.

<img alt="Modi 2015 us" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="81aebb00-7bd8-4341-a73a-5de7d6c809da" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/7_0.png" />

Modi also met heads of various business firms.

March 31 - April 1 2016

The following year, Modi was in the US for the Nuclear Security Summit. During the official working visit, during which he met with Barack Obama at the White House.

As per the Obama White House archive website, during their third bilateral meeting, the two leaders reviewed and reaffirmed their deepening strategic partnership.

<img alt="Modi US 2016" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="11c2f13d-d535-49dd-a06c-cf91d9c2c8c1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/10.png" />

On the sidelines of the Nuclear summit, he also held bilateral meetings with Prime Minister David Cameron of the UK and Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada.

6–8&nbsp;June&nbsp;2016

Prime Minister Modi held a progress review meeting with President Barack Obama, focusing on defence, security, and energy. They discussed the advancement of these key areas of cooperation between India and the United States.&nbsp;

<img alt="Modi congress US" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3626da09-7c86-430c-a092-dbeef948db55" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/9.png" />

Additionally, Prime Minister Modi addressed a joint session of the United States Congress, where, as per the House of Representatives website, he promoted a strong relationship between the United States and India focused on cooperation, connectivity, respect for global commons, inclusiveness, and adherence to international rules and norms.

"Our relationship is primed for a momentous future," he said.

25–26 June&nbsp;2017 

During the second leg of his three-nation tour, Narendra Modi visited America, where he had his first bilateral meeting with the-then President Donald Trump. The two met at the White House for a 'working dinner'. His visit led to the US declaring the Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin as a "global terrorist".

<img alt="Modi-Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16cc5859-8af9-49cb-a8a6-8ba2a857a56e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/11.png" />

20–27 September 2019

Modi's 2019 visit to the US marked a notable moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. He was there to attend the 74th United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

<img alt="2019 Modi-Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c66d391d-ce02-49ab-949c-3458b5ccaae8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/12.png" />

During the visit,&nbsp;he participated in a significant event called "Howdy, Modi"&nbsp;in Houston, Texas.&nbsp;The event&nbsp;garnered attention both in India and the United States.&nbsp;

<img alt="2019 Modi-Trump Howdy Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98ad3694-f4eb-45f7-a8cf-da3dbb29cf33" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/13.png" />

The event took place on September 22nd at the NRG Stadium and attracted a crowd of over 50,000 people, making it one of the largest gatherings for a visiting foreign leader in the United States, excluding the Pope. The summit, supported by numerous volunteers and partner organizations, aimed to strengthen the relationship between India and the United States.

23–25 September 2021

On September 23, 2021, Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the US. The visit held significance, as it was his first visit since the outbreak of COVID-19 and also his first trip to the US after President Joe Biden assumed office.

<img alt="Modi-Biden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="55224e1a-01c1-462b-97fc-d6da60cfd0dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/14.png" />

In Washington, he met Biden and also held a meeting with United States Vice President Kamala Harris.

<img alt="Modi-Harris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1fb12e6d-60fa-44e1-a485-cdf620b7ba51" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/16_0.png" /> 
&nbsp; 
He also held bilateral meetings with several tech CEOs, Australia's Scott Morrison, America's VP Kamala Harris, and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga.&nbsp;

<img alt="Modi US 2021" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="477f51f9-3349-4b3f-9112-72ac8cee9d1b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/15_0.png" />

Modi also participated in the first in-person QUAD leaders' summit at the White House and addressed the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for the United States for a visit that is being billed as a turning point for Washington-New Delhi bilateral relations.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has left for the United States for a visit that is being billed as a turning point for Washington-New Delhi bilateral relations. As the Indian PM embarks on a visit that is anticipated to provide India with access to essential American technologies typically shared only with allied nations — a development that will enhance the growing relationship between the two countries — let's take a look at Modi's previous visits to the US. Narendra Modi in US: The current visit To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India. However, the visit from June 21 to June 24 holds special importance due to its classification as a 'state visit,' which, as per diplomatic protocol, is the highest-ranked visit. Also read | Explained: 9 years, over a 100 trips. A look at Indian PM Narendra Modi's foreign tours in numbers Modi in US: The previous visits 26–30 September 2014 In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, for what was categorised as a working visit. During the visit, delivered his maiden speech in the 69th session of the United Nations General Assembly on 27 September 2014. As per the UN website, in his speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the global surge of democracy, expressed India's willingness to engage in bilateral dialogue with Pakistan, emphasised the need for global partnership to combat terrorism and pursue inclusive development, and promoted the practice of yoga for a sustainable world. He also met with the-then US President Barack Obama and sought investment from prominent CEOs. 24–30 September 2015 In 2015, Narendra Modi commenced his visit to the United States of America on September 24th. It was part of a trans-Atlantic trip that included a visit to Ireland. Also read | India and US share ‘unprecedented’ trust, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi During the first leg of the visit, in New York, he had a roundtable meeting with top American CEOs from the financial sector. As per narendramodi.in, he also had "extensive talks" with the-then PM of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, PM of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Ralph Gonsalves and Guyana resident David Arthur Granger. Modi also met heads of various business firms. March 31 - April 1 2016 The following year, Modi was in the US for the Nuclear Security Summit. During the official working visit, during which he met with Barack Obama at the White House. As per the Obama White House archive website, during their third bilateral meeting, the two leaders reviewed and reaffirmed their deepening strategic partnership. On the sidelines of the Nuclear summit, he also held bilateral meetings with Prime Minister David Cameron of the UK and Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada. 6–8 June 2016 Prime Minister Modi held a progress review meeting with President Barack Obama, focusing on defence, security, and energy. They discussed the advancement of these key areas of cooperation between India and the United States. Additionally, Prime Minister Modi addressed a joint session of the United States Congress, where, as per the House of Representatives website, he promoted a strong relationship between the United States and India focused on cooperation, connectivity, respect for global commons, inclusiveness, and adherence to international rules and norms. "Our relationship is primed for a momentous future," he said. 25–26 June 2017 During the second leg of his three-nation tour, Narendra Modi visited America, where he had his first bilateral meeting with the-then President Donald Trump. The two met at the White House for a 'working dinner'. His visit led to the US declaring the Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin as a "global terrorist". 20–27 September 2019 Modi's 2019 visit to the US marked a notable moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. He was there to attend the 74th United Nations General Assembly. During the visit, he participated in a significant event called "Howdy, Modi" in Houston, Texas. The event garnered attention both in India and the United States. The event took place on September 22nd at the NRG Stadium and attracted a crowd of over 50,000 people, making it one of the largest gatherings for a visiting foreign leader in the United States, excluding the Pope. The summit, supported by numerous volunteers and partner organizations, aimed to strengthen the relationship between India and the United States. 23–25 September 2021 On September 23, 2021, Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the US. The visit held significance, as it was his first visit since the outbreak of COVID-19 and also his first trip to the US after President Joe Biden assumed office. In Washington, he met Biden and also held a meeting with United States Vice President Kamala Harris. He also held bilateral meetings with several tech CEOs, Australia's Scott Morrison, America's VP Kamala Harris, and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga. Modi also participated in the first in-person QUAD leaders' summit at the White House and addressed the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City. (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.

Explained: Modi in USA: How Indian PM's past trips unfolded

At the invitation of US President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden, Indian PM Narendra Modi is scheduled for an official state visit to the united states on June 21. This will be Modi's first state visit to the US during his nine year reign as prime minister. To welcome the Prime Minister's visit to US, Times Square will witness grand yoga celebrations. Watch to know more.

PM Modi's US Visit: Times Square in NYC to witness yoga celebrations

Members of the Indian American diaspora are organising marches in 20 major cities across the nation later today to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his historic State visit to the United States. The visit by PM Modi to the United States, which is being hosted by US President Joe Biden, will start on June 20 in New York and end on June 24.

Unity Day Marches held in 20 US cities to welcome PM Modi

Expectations surround Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to the United States. For decades, authorities on both sides have referred to the collaboration as a 'natural alliance', placing India's relations with the United States at risk of a turning point.

India-US Relations: From 'natural allies' to a new military partnership

Unity Day March to be held in cities like Boston, Chicago, Atlanta and Houston

India Unity Day March: Indian-American community plans to gather in front of White House

India Unity Day march in US ahead of Modi's visit

At the invitation of US President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden, Indian PM Narendra Modi is scheduled for an official state visit to the united states on June 21. This will be Modi's first state visit to the US during his nine year reign as prime minister.

Modi to address joint US Congress session on Thursday

Prime Minister Narendra Modi began the 102nd edition of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’. The monthly radio programme of the Prime Minister will be aired at 11 am. Meanwhile, PM Modi's monthly radio programme recently completed its 100th episode which was aired on April 26 live across the country.

'Mann Ki Baat': PM Modi calls Emergency a dark era in India's history

A momentous chapter in the history of these two great democracies. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his highly anticipated four-day state visit to the United States on Monday, the world eagerly awaits the dawn of a new era of partnership between the world's oldest and largest democracies. Modi joins an exclusive group of leaders, including Winston Churchill and Nelson Mandela who have twice addressed a joint meeting of the US Congress in the past.

Narendra Modi`s US Visit: A watershed moment for India-US ties

The pact finalising the joint manufacturing is anticipated to be unveiled during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's State visit next week. General Electric, located in the United States, would be able to construct engines for military aircraft on Indian territory under the terms of the agreement, which the Biden Administration is ready to sign.

India aims to produce over 350 fighter jets over next two decades

India and US are likely to sign some very crucial defence deals during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States which begins next week, according to reports. What are these deals and how will they strengthen India-US bilateral ties and consolidate India’s position in the Indo-Pacific region? Watch Vikram Chandra in conversation with Meera Shankar, Former Ambassador to the United States, and Trisha Ray, Deputy Director, Centre for Security, Strategy, and Technology, ORF.

'India-US fighter jet pact will be crucial'

India and US are likely to sign some very crucial defence deals during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States which begins next week, according to reports. What are these deals and how will they strengthen India-US bilateral ties and consolidate India’s position in the Indo-Pacific region? Watch Vikram Chandra in conversation with Meera Shankar, Former Ambassador to the United States, and Trisha Ray, Deputy Director, Centre for Security, Strategy and Technology, ORF

PM Modi’s US visit: What’s on the agenda?

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to the United States from June 21&nbsp;to June 24. The upcoming visit is one of the many visits the Indian PM has made to the US. However, as per reports, it is like none other. During the trip, he will be hosted by American President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden for an intimate visit.

Since assuming office in 2014, Narendra Modi, who is an active globetrotter, has made more than 100 foreign visits. His foreign visits have been aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, promoting economic cooperation, attracting investment, and enhancing India's global standing.&nbsp;

Here are Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trips in numbers:

<h2>Countries the Indian PM has visited</h2>

In total, as per the PM India website, Narendra Modi has flown out of the country a total of&nbsp;70 times, visiting&nbsp;124 countries over&nbsp;the nine years he has been the prime minister of India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-is-us-indian-pm-expected-to-meet-ceos-of-top-20-american-companies-604707">Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies</a>

During his foreign visits, he travelled to 64 nations. These included bilateral trips, as well as the various visits to participate in bi-lateral meetings, multi-lateral meetings and international summits and other meets.

<h2>Modi's maiden foreign visit&nbsp;</h2>

Narendra Modi's first foreign visit as prime minister was to Bhutan. The visit helped emphasise the importance of India's close ties with its neighbours.

As per NarendraModi.in, Modi said that Bhutan&nbsp;was&nbsp;a "natural choice"&nbsp;as his first foreign destination due to the "unique and special relationship"&nbsp;the two countries share.

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan, the two nations reiterated their commitment to achieving hydropower cooperation. Other key highlights included the inauguration of Bhutan's Supreme Court and the foundation stone laying for the 600MW Kholongchu hydroelectric project. The visit highlighted the importance of business-to-business ties and recognized Bhutan's unique focus on "Gross National Happiness" influenced by its neighbour, India.

<h2>Expenses incurred during Narendra Modi's foreign visits</h2>

As disclosed on the website pmindia.gov.in, the foreign visits incurred significant expenses.

These five foreign visits&nbsp;recorded the highest&nbsp;expense&nbsp;(Between 15 June, 2014 and 15 November, 2019): &nbsp;

1. USA (21 September – 28 September, 2019): Rs 23,27,09,000 
2. Brazil (13 July – 17 July, 2014): Rs 20,35,48,000 
3. France, Germany &amp; Canada (9 April – 17 April, 2015): Rs 31,25,78,000 
4. Myanmar, Australia &amp; Fiji (11 Nov – 20 Nov, 2014): Rs 22,58,65,000 
5. Ireland and USA (23 Sept – 29 Sept, 2015): Rs 18,46,95,000

The total expense incurred between May 2014 and November 2019 stands at INR 3,59,04,52,763 &nbsp;or around 43 million dollars ($43,696,215).

<h2>Narendra Modi in US</h2>

To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India.

However, in spite of the frequent visits, the upcoming visit from June 21&nbsp;to June 24&nbsp;holds special importance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-is-us-indian-pm-expected-to-meet-ceos-of-top-20-american-companies-604707">Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies</a>

The uniqueness of this visit lies in its classification as a state visit. While Modi has made multiple trips to the US in the past, none of them were officially recognised as state visits until this occasion.

As per diplomatic protocol, a state visit is the highest-ranked visit.&nbsp;

It is expected that the reverberations of this high-level visit will be seen in the grandiose with which the Indian prime minister will be received along with the diplomatic line-up during the trip.

<h2>Modi in US: Previous visits to America</h2>

In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, for what was categorised as a working visit.&nbsp;

Subsequently, in 2016, he made a working lunch visit, and in 2017, Modi's trip to the US was officially designated as an official working visit.&nbsp;

Modi's 2019 visit to the US marked a notable moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. During the Houston, Texas visit, he participated in a significant rally that garnered attention both in India and the United States.&nbsp;

On September 23, 2021, Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the US. The visit held significance, as it was his first visit since the outbreak of COVID-19 and also his first trip to the US after President Joe Biden assumed office.&nbsp;

During this visit, Modi had a tightly packed schedule that encompassed attending the Quad summit, delivering a speech at the 76th United Nations General Assembly, and engaging in a bilateral meeting with the US president.

As per the Institute of New Europe, Indian PM Narendra Modi "has made 109 foreign trips to 60 countries. Most often, he visited the United States (6 times), as well as China, France, and Russia (5 times)."

<img src="https://ine.org.pl/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Modi-ENG-1024x576.png" />

Image courtesy: The Institute of New Europe

Times of India reports that PM Modi's international engagements reached their peak in 2015, with a remarkable record of visiting 28 countries throughout the year. This period coincided with his first full year in office, following his inauguration in May 2014.

In 2018, PM Modi continued his active diplomatic outreach, undertaking more than 20 foreign visits. However, during the election year of 2019, the number of visits decreased to 14. The Covid pandemic also had a significant impact on the prime minister's foreign travels, leading to a significant reduction in the number of visits.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to the United States from June 21 to June 24. The upcoming visit is one of the many visits the Indian PM has made to the US.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to the United States from June 21 to June 24. The upcoming visit is one of the many visits the Indian PM has made to the US. However, as per reports, it is like none other. During the trip, he will be hosted by American President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden for an intimate visit. Since assuming office in 2014, Narendra Modi, who is an active globetrotter, has made more than 100 foreign visits. His foreign visits have been aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, promoting economic cooperation, attracting investment, and enhancing India's global standing. Here are Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trips in numbers: Countries the Indian PM has visited In total, as per the PM India website, Narendra Modi has flown out of the country a total of 70 times, visiting 124 countries over the nine years he has been the prime minister of India. Also read | Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies During his foreign visits, he travelled to 64 nations. These included bilateral trips, as well as the various visits to participate in bi-lateral meetings, multi-lateral meetings and international summits and other meets. Modi's maiden foreign visit Narendra Modi's first foreign visit as prime minister was to Bhutan. The visit helped emphasise the importance of India's close ties with its neighbours. As per NarendraModi.in, Modi said that Bhutan was a "natural choice" as his first foreign destination due to the "unique and special relationship" the two countries share. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Bhutan, the two nations reiterated their commitment to achieving hydropower cooperation. Other key highlights included the inauguration of Bhutan's Supreme Court and the foundation stone laying for the 600MW Kholongchu hydroelectric project. The visit highlighted the importance of business-to-business ties and recognized Bhutan's unique focus on "Gross National Happiness" influenced by its neighbour, India. Expenses incurred during Narendra Modi's foreign visits As disclosed on the website pmindia.gov.in, the foreign visits incurred significant expenses. These five foreign visits recorded the highest expense (Between 15 June, 2014 and 15 November, 2019): 1. USA (21 September – 28 September, 2019): Rs 23,27,09,000 2. Brazil (13 July – 17 July, 2014): Rs 20,35,48,000 3. France, Germany & Canada (9 April – 17 April, 2015): Rs 31,25,78,000 4. Myanmar, Australia & Fiji (11 Nov – 20 Nov, 2014): Rs 22,58,65,000 5. Ireland and USA (23 Sept – 29 Sept, 2015): Rs 18,46,95,000 The total expense incurred between May 2014 and November 2019 stands at INR 3,59,04,52,763 or around 43 million dollars ($43,696,215). Narendra Modi in US To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India. However, in spite of the frequent visits, the upcoming visit from June 21 to June 24 holds special importance. Also read | Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies The uniqueness of this visit lies in its classification as a state visit. While Modi has made multiple trips to the US in the past, none of them were officially recognised as state visits until this occasion. As per diplomatic protocol, a state visit is the highest-ranked visit. It is expected that the reverberations of this high-level visit will be seen in the grandiose with which the Indian prime minister will be received along with the diplomatic line-up during the trip. Modi in US: Previous visits to America In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, for what was categorised as a working visit. Subsequently, in 2016, he made a working lunch visit, and in 2017, Modi's trip to the US was officially designated as an official working visit. Modi's 2019 visit to the US marked a notable moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. During the Houston, Texas visit, he participated in a significant rally that garnered attention both in India and the United States. On September 23, 2021, Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the US. The visit held significance, as it was his first visit since the outbreak of COVID-19 and also his first trip to the US after President Joe Biden assumed office. During this visit, Modi had a tightly packed schedule that encompassed attending the Quad summit, delivering a speech at the 76th United Nations General Assembly, and engaging in a bilateral meeting with the US president. As per the Institute of New Europe, Indian PM Narendra Modi "has made 109 foreign trips to 60 countries. Most often, he visited the United States (6 times), as well as China, France, and Russia (5 times)." Image courtesy: The Institute of New Europe Times of India reports that PM Modi's international engagements reached their peak in 2015, with a remarkable record of visiting 28 countries throughout the year. This period coincided with his first full year in office, following his inauguration in May 2014. In 2018, PM Modi continued his active diplomatic outreach, undertaking more than 20 foreign visits. However, during the election year of 2019, the number of visits decreased to 14. The Covid pandemic also had a significant impact on the prime minister's foreign travels, leading to a significant reduction in the number of visits. (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.

Explained: 9 years, over a 100 trips. A look at Indian PM Narendra Modi's foreign tours in numbers

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be visiting the United States from June 21-24, is expected to meet the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of the top 20 American companies.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be visiting the United States from June 21-24, is expected to meet the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of the top 20 American companies. According to a report by the news agency ANI on Tuesday (June 13), these companies include Mastercard, Accenture, Adobe Systems and Visa, among others. On June 23, the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) will host "We The People: Celebrating the US-India Partnership" in Washington DC. A reception at the Hall of Nations Terrace (Kennedy Centre) will follow Modi's address. A person familiar with developments told ANI that the event will witness eminent industry leaders from across various sectors including IT, telecom, FMCG, logistics and industrials. Also read | What’s special about PM Modi’s visit to US this time? The event will have a get-together of not just business leaders but also some of the Biden administration's top leaders. The person told ANI, "More than 1,500 invites have been sent out for the Kennedy Centre event which includes some of the top CEOs and business leaders. Invites are also being sent to several officials in the Biden administration." 'A much more concrete relationship coming up between India, US' Mukesh Aghi, the president and CEO of USISPF, said on Monday that a much more concrete, deeper and broader relationship between India and the US was being witnessed. Aghi said India is taking an independent position at international forums but pointed out that India also supports the US position. He also recalled Indian PM Modi's address to a joint session of the Congress. On being asked about the change in New Delhi-Washington ties over the years, the USISPF president said, "Well when Prime Minister spoke for the first time to a joint session of the Congress, he said we need to overcome the hesitation of history. And I think what we are seeing is both sides are coming, getting over the suspiciousness of each other." Also read | Biden's to host PM Modi over intimate dinner on June 21, prior to official state dinner Ahead of Modi's US visit, American corporate sector leaders said they want to see a deepening of technological convergence between India and the US in industries like semiconductors, defence, cybersecurity and telecoms. On Tuesday, the US India Business Council (USIBC) hosted its annual India Ideas Summit, which was the largest gathering of Indian and American CEOs. Speaking to the news agency PTI, USIBC President Atul Keshap said, "The mood was great. Very positive mood. Everyone is happy about the State Visit coming up. Everybody wants to see our technological convergence deepen on things like semiconductors, defence as well, cybersecurity, telecoms, 5G, and 6G. There are so many areas of convergence in deep tech and future tech, everyone wants to see more work on that." (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.

Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies

With only a few days left for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the US, all eyes are now on the next chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries. In the run-up to the visit, a slew of press briefings, official visits, and expert commentaries have surfaced, underlining the various facets of the evolving India-US partnership, the global geopolitical dynamics, and what to expect next.&nbsp;

During the recent New Delhi visit, Pentagon official Ely Ratner underlined that PM Modi’s upcoming visit would be historic and set a new benchmark in the relationship. In another briefing in Washington DC, the US Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre remarked that the US and India share a resolve to elevate the bilateral strategic partnership, and the discussions would centre around strengthening the commitment toward the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

Beyond everything else, the tech partnership is emerging as the most keenly observed theme on the agenda, not just for India and the US but also for Russia, China, Europe, West Asia, and others.&nbsp;

Tech takes centre stage

With the signing of the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), the intent to craft a high-technology bilateral partnership has been signalled by the highest echelons of policymaking in both countries. It has been widely appreciated for moving toward realising the vast potential for strengthening the US-India relationship. Through this initiative, India and the US have sought to create coordination and cooperation mechanisms on semiconductor supply chains, quantum computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G and 6G, and other emerging technologies.&nbsp;

Taking the iCET forward, the inaugural meeting of the India-US Strategic Trade Dialogue (IUSTD) was held recently in Washington, DC, focusing on facilitating development and trade in critical domain technologies like AI, semiconductors, quantum, biotech, and telecom. To keep things on track, both have also agreed to set up a monitoring group to review the progress toward the bilateral high-tech trade and the deepening tech partnership.&nbsp;

Further, a new roadmap for defence industrial cooperation—expected to fast-track technology tie-ups and co-production of military platforms—has been adopted, along with the soon-to-be-launched‘ India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem’ (INDUS-X) for advancing cutting-edge technology cooperation. This will supplement the governmental mechanisms by partnerships between companies, investors, research institutions, and start-up accelerators in the two countries.&nbsp;

Impact on Tech Geopolitics&nbsp;

Today, the 'Make in India policy' is focused on attracting global investments in various sectors. This is now complemented by the evolving geopolitical dynamics, where American firms are reshaping their supply chains and manufacturing in line with the growing tech rivalry with China. &nbsp;

Beyond the bilateral track, India and the US could also seek to expand the tech partnership in other formats. For instance, pillar five under the new US national cybersecurity strategy emphasises utilising mechanisms like Quad to advance shared goals for cyberspace, in conjunction with other mechanisms like AUKUS to enable effective operational collaboration.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-president-biden-to-host-indias-pm-modi-on-june-22-white-house-591050">ALSO READ|&nbsp;US President Biden to host India's PM Modi on June 22: White House</a> 
 
At the Quad level, India is engaging in cooperation in the high-tech sector through mechanisms like the 'Quad Critical and Emerging Technology' working group, while the other AUKUS nations (Australia and the UK) are also strengthening tech partnerships with India. According to some reports, the UK has also proposed a trilateral cyber partnership between India, Australia, and the UK. A closer US-India tech partnership will only deepen India’s engagement in these frameworks.&nbsp;

However, not everything is as straightforward as the US and India would like. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has shaken the global geopolitical landscape. Along with other G7 members, the US has committed itself to ‘starving’ Russia of technology by disrupting the supply chains that fuel the Russian military and economy. In this light, Russia now aims to craft a Eurasian tech alliance where it sees both India and China as valuable partners.&nbsp;

Though a strong Russia-China partnership in the tech domain is inevitable, Russian companies are now seeking the Indian market for investments and engagement. This was displayed in the recent India-Russia business forums, where Russian firms presented their tech offerings for the Indian market. Moscow has declared 2022-2031 as the decade of science and technology, seeking to build self-reliance and closer partnerships with friendly countries. In the new foreign policy strategy released in April this year, Russia reaffirmed the partnership with India as privileged and strategic, emphasising increasing bilateral trade, strengthening investment, and technological ties.&nbsp;

On the other hand, China will see the growing India-US partnership as the next phase in its global tech competition with the US and its allies. It is now widely accepted that the US is at an inflexion point, with its tech superiority gradually waning compared to China. In its national strategies, the US now deems China as the “only country with both the intent to reshape the international order, and increasingly, having the economic, diplomatic, military, and technological power to do so.” A greater Indian partnership with the US and its allies, as well as with Taiwan; and India’s decisions in recent years to ban Chinese technologies and platforms, will be seen in Beijing as New Delhi’s stamp of approval for the unfolding tech war.&nbsp;

What’s next?

A closer India-US tech partnership will have ripple effects on the dynamics beyond bilateral levels. In the previous decade, China has been a significant partner in the tech domain for Europe. While for West Asia, Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia, China is now increasingly emerging as a major tech partner. As the war in Eastern Europe continues, US-led sanctions on Russia have pushed it into the Chinese tech ecosystem. However, Moscow is still looking to avoid complete dependence on Beijing. This is where India holds tremendous significance as a major tech hub for global tech dynamics.&nbsp;

On its part, New Delhi has looked to increase its tech outreach to West Asia and sought to strengthen cooperation with the ASEAN. A closer India-US partnership can boost India’s capacity and capability for further outreach in regions like Africa and Central Asia, where China continues to make inroads. However, though India continues to maintain strategic autonomy by balancing both the West and Russia, apprehensions in Moscow will peak regarding the feasibility of India as a tech partner as New Delhi becomes enmeshed in the overlapping groups and frameworks led by the US. Overall, strong signals are in the air that the upcoming visit might define the Indian strategic direction in the tech domain for the decade ahead.&nbsp;

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.

 
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With only a few days left for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the US, all eyes are now on the next chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries.

With only a few days left for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to the US, all eyes are now on the next chapter in the bilateral relations between the two countries. In the run-up to the visit, a slew of press briefings, official visits, and expert commentaries have surfaced, underlining the various facets of the evolving India-US partnership, the global geopolitical dynamics, and what to expect next. During the recent New Delhi visit, Pentagon official Ely Ratner underlined that PM Modi’s upcoming visit would be historic and set a new benchmark in the relationship. In another briefing in Washington DC, the US Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre remarked that the US and India share a resolve to elevate the bilateral strategic partnership, and the discussions would centre around strengthening the commitment toward the Indo-Pacific region. Beyond everything else, the tech partnership is emerging as the most keenly observed theme on the agenda, not just for India and the US but also for Russia, China, Europe, West Asia, and others. Tech takes centre stage With the signing of the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), the intent to craft a high-technology bilateral partnership has been signalled by the highest echelons of policymaking in both countries. It has been widely appreciated for moving toward realising the vast potential for strengthening the US-India relationship. Through this initiative, India and the US have sought to create coordination and cooperation mechanisms on semiconductor supply chains, quantum computing, Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G and 6G, and other emerging technologies. Taking the iCET forward, the inaugural meeting of the India-US Strategic Trade Dialogue (IUSTD) was held recently in Washington, DC, focusing on facilitating development and trade in critical domain technologies like AI, semiconductors, quantum, biotech, and telecom. To keep things on track, both have also agreed to set up a monitoring group to review the progress toward the bilateral high-tech trade and the deepening tech partnership. Further, a new roadmap for defence industrial cooperation—expected to fast-track technology tie-ups and co-production of military platforms—has been adopted, along with the soon-to-be-launched‘ India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem’ (INDUS-X) for advancing cutting-edge technology cooperation. This will supplement the governmental mechanisms by partnerships between companies, investors, research institutions, and start-up accelerators in the two countries. Impact on Tech Geopolitics Today, the 'Make in India policy' is focused on attracting global investments in various sectors. This is now complemented by the evolving geopolitical dynamics, where American firms are reshaping their supply chains and manufacturing in line with the growing tech rivalry with China. Beyond the bilateral track, India and the US could also seek to expand the tech partnership in other formats. For instance, pillar five under the new US national cybersecurity strategy emphasises utilising mechanisms like Quad to advance shared goals for cyberspace, in conjunction with other mechanisms like AUKUS to enable effective operational collaboration. ALSO READ| US President Biden to host India's PM Modi on June 22: White House At the Quad level, India is engaging in cooperation in the high-tech sector through mechanisms like the 'Quad Critical and Emerging Technology' working group, while the other AUKUS nations (Australia and the UK) are also strengthening tech partnerships with India. According to some reports, the UK has also proposed a trilateral cyber partnership between India, Australia, and the UK. A closer US-India tech partnership will only deepen India’s engagement in these frameworks. However, not everything is as straightforward as the US and India would like. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has shaken the global geopolitical landscape. Along with other G7 members, the US has committed itself to ‘starving’ Russia of technology by disrupting the supply chains that fuel the Russian military and economy. In this light, Russia now aims to craft a Eurasian tech alliance where it sees both India and China as valuable partners. Though a strong Russia-China partnership in the tech domain is inevitable, Russian companies are now seeking the Indian market for investments and engagement. This was displayed in the recent India-Russia business forums, where Russian firms presented their tech offerings for the Indian market. Moscow has declared 2022-2031 as the decade of science and technology, seeking to build self-reliance and closer partnerships with friendly countries. In the new foreign policy strategy released in April this year, Russia reaffirmed the partnership with India as privileged and strategic, emphasising increasing bilateral trade, strengthening investment, and technological ties. On the other hand, China will see the growing India-US partnership as the next phase in its global tech competition with the US and its allies. It is now widely accepted that the US is at an inflexion point, with its tech superiority gradually waning compared to China. In its national strategies, the US now deems China as the “only country with both the intent to reshape the international order, and increasingly, having the economic, diplomatic, military, and technological power to do so.” A greater Indian partnership with the US and its allies, as well as with Taiwan; and India’s decisions in recent years to ban Chinese technologies and platforms, will be seen in Beijing as New Delhi’s stamp of approval for the unfolding tech war. What’s next? A closer India-US tech partnership will have ripple effects on the dynamics beyond bilateral levels. In the previous decade, China has been a significant partner in the tech domain for Europe. While for West Asia, Africa, Latin America and Southeast Asia, China is now increasingly emerging as a major tech partner. As the war in Eastern Europe continues, US-led sanctions on Russia have pushed it into the Chinese tech ecosystem. However, Moscow is still looking to avoid complete dependence on Beijing. This is where India holds tremendous significance as a major tech hub for global tech dynamics. On its part, New Delhi has looked to increase its tech outreach to West Asia and sought to strengthen cooperation with the ASEAN. A closer India-US partnership can boost India’s capacity and capability for further outreach in regions like Africa and Central Asia, where China continues to make inroads. However, though India continues to maintain strategic autonomy by balancing both the West and Russia, apprehensions in Moscow will peak regarding the feasibility of India as a tech partner as New Delhi becomes enmeshed in the overlapping groups and frameworks led by the US. Overall, strong signals are in the air that the upcoming visit might define the Indian strategic direction in the tech domain for the decade ahead. 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

PM Modi’s US visit: A new chapter to be heralded for tech geopolitics

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Saturday as they reviewed progress in their bilateral cooperation, anchored in historical and strong people-to-people ties. Modi also thanked him for the relocation of 12 cheetahs to India earlier this year, according to a statement.

Indian PM discusses cooperation in BRICS with South African Prez during telephone conversation

Indian PM Modi, South African President speak on  phone, discuss bilateral ties, Ukraine

It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country.

In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work.

We have come a long way from there, haven't we?

Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be.

Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level.

But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest.

Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army.

The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016.

I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries.

Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to reach&nbsp;a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day.

Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-1994-visit-to-unga-2021-heres-a-look-at-modis-us-visits-415717">From 1994 visit to UNGA 2021, here's a look at Modi's US visits</a> 
 
It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that through media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I.

When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government."

The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then.

Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country.

Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what.

Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy.

On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India.

Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal. 
 
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.

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It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot.

It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country. In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work. We have come a long way from there, haven't we? Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be. Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level. But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest. Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army. The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016. I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries. Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to reach a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day. Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie. ALSO READ | From 1994 visit to UNGA 2021, here's a look at Modi's US visits It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that through media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I. When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government." The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then. Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country. Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what. Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy. On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India. Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal. 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

Modi's US visit a rebound from historic lows, but dissident notes of Track III diplomacy abound

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in the United States later this month to begin his State visit. The tour is anticipated to establish new benchmarks for the bilateral relations between the two countries, and significant announcements about defence cooperation are likely to be made.

Pentagon: PM Modi's 'historic' state visit to set new benchmarks

History is full of strange coincidences, and I may add quoting American poet T.S. Eliot, "cunning passages." It has been a weekend of fascinating coincidences if you believe in watching Turkey and India in a split-screen view. Both nations have chartered somewhat similar political paths in their respective nationalist upsurge. 
 
In New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new parliament building, the first one built after the end of British colonial rule in 1947, in a ceremony full of Hindu symbolism as saffron-clad Shaivaite gurus from Tamil Nadu helped him symbolically install a sceptre denoting a transfer of power -- or a reminder of the morally upright rule of Dharma, depending on who you are talking to. But in doing so, Modi was boycotted by a significant majority of opposition parties, who thought he had denigrated democracy with his authoritarian, personality-oriented inaugural ceremony. 
 
ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-voting-starts-in-historic-presidential-election-runoff-597392">Erdogan Vs Kilicdaroglu: Voting starts in Turkey’s first-ever presidential election runoff</a> 
 
That should ring a bell in Ankara, where President Recep Tayyip Erdogan won re-election in a controversial run-off marked by a shaky mandate slammed by opposition groups as unfair. Erdogan's Islamist AKP (Justice and Development Party) could be called Turkey's Muslim nationalist equivalent of Modi's proudly Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party.&nbsp;

<img alt="President Recep Tayyip Erdogan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bd856460-5576-45ee-86f5-19063b8d22a7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/President%20Recep%20Tayyip%20Erdogan.png" /> 
(Image:&nbsp;President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Credit: Reuters)

The thing is, both Turkey and India are officially secular ruled by a constitution that does not discriminate on the basis of religion. But both Erdogan and Modi represent ideologies that lean heavily on religious and cultural symbols.&nbsp;Erdogan's electoral victory coincided with the 570th anniversary of the capture of Istanbul by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II in 1453. Former Indian ambassador to West Asian countries, Talmiz Ahmad, describes Erdogan's return as a "triumph of Ottoman glory." 
 
Modi's parliament inauguration was on the birth anniversary of Veer Damodar Savarkar, considered the father of BJP's Hindutva ideology that places emphasis on the principle of India as the homeland of Hindus in which people of other origins or religious affiliations do not have equal prominence.&nbsp;

Under Erdogan, Turkey has become Turkiye, symbolising a return to the Ottoman past, while Modi's followers are keen to refer to India as Bharat, its local and ancient appellation linked to a civilisation preceding Muslim-led invasions and incursions or British colonial rule.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mahatma Gandhi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7a0f551c-c63f-4212-a121-282a8173f387" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mahatma%20Gandhi.png" /> 
(Image:&nbsp;Archive image of Mahatma Gandhi. Credit: AFP)

We need to back further into history for a deeper understanding. Mahatma Gandhi is considered the father of modern Indian nationalism and led the Indian National Congress that the BJP ousted from power in 2014. Modi pays tributes to Gandhi, but swears by the ideological thoughts of Savarkar, the man who opposed his secularist thought. Erdogan salutes Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the statesman who turned predominantly Islamic Turkey into a modern secular republic in 1923 after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire following the First World War but there is a catch. Though he says his country has "eternal respect" for Ataturk, a lot of what Erdogan does and says seems to fly in the face of Ataturk's liberal unifying outlook -- and that must sound familiar to Modi critics who say the BJP leader could not possibly be following both Savarkar and Gandhi at once.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mustafa Kemal Ataturk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b0a91e18-2864-4fa3-92fd-a413779474af" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Mustafa%20Kemal%20Ataturk.png" />

Image: Archive image of&nbsp;Mustafa Kemal Ataturk.&nbsp; 
 
More interesting stuff. The road right next to the one where India's prime ministerial residence is housed is named after none other than Ataturk -- a symbol of anti-colonial solidarity between India and Turkey. &nbsp;And yes, Ankara has its own Mahatma Gandhi Caddesi (Street). 
 
Gandhi, despite his awe-inspiring stature, has been controversial in India for his support to the 1919-2024 Khilafat (Caliphate) Movement against British policy in Turkey that ended the Ottoman empire, whose glory Erdogan wants to restore. The non-violent Gandhi supported &nbsp;Khilafat to help unite Hindus and Muslims in the subcontinent against British rule, but critics say the seeds of the painful, bloody Partition that led to the carving of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan from undivided India were watered by the Khilafat movement. Gandhi reluctantly agreed to the Partition and was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, an associate of Savarkar, who was tried in the murder case but set free. 
 
So where does all this leave bilateral relations between the two countries? Turkey has long been a supporter of Pakistan in international fora on the Kashmir dispute between the subcontinent's divided nations. Its decision to stay away from Srinagar in Kashmir where a G-20 countries' meeting on tourism took place this month is only the latest in a series of such events. 
 
Yet, it is the same Turkey that lauded India and Gandhi when Modi's government sent vaccines to help the country fight the Covid-19 pandemic. India also helped Turkey last February with "Operation Dost' -- a medical and search-and-rescue mission involving a 99-member army team, when Turkey was shaken by a severe earthquake that killed tens of thousands of people. If a friend in need is a friend indeed, it is time for Turkey to recall how from Khilafat to Covid-19 and quake aid, India has been a supporter of just causes.

<img alt="Kemal Kilicdaroglu" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34be1645-c370-4baf-b0da-87dcb9d094a8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kemal%20Kilicdaroglu%20%282%29.png" /> 
(Image:&nbsp;Kemal Kilicdaroglu. Credit: Reuters)

One thing Erdogan could do is to stop seeing India through the Pakistan prism. If his respect for Ataturk is not lip service, and if his gratitude to India runs deep, &nbsp;there are other ways to see India by engaging in meaningful conversations that recognise a new world order and stay mum on Kashmir. The Kashmir dispute is far more complex than simplistic Hindu-Muslim narratives would suggest -- and from distant Turkey, it is a blurred view. 
 
The most bizarre of coincidences is of course, the fact that the face of the man who narrowly lost to Erdogan, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, bears an uncanny resemblance to Mahatma Gandhi, or at least Ben Kingsley who played the independence leader in the Oscar-winning biopic. "Gandhi Kemal" is also famous for his humble style resembling the Mahatma and is a leader of CHP, the Republican People's Party founded by Ataturk. 
 
If that is what keeps Erdogan from recognising India in a new light, we should be looking at Freudian psychology than diplomatic principles to understand his mind. 
 
(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

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History is full of strange coincidences, and I may add quoting American poet T.S. Eliot, "cunning passages." It has been a weekend of fascinating coincidences if you believe in watching Turkey and India in a split-screen view.

History is full of strange coincidences, and I may add quoting American poet T.S. Eliot, "cunning passages." It has been a weekend of fascinating coincidences if you believe in watching Turkey and India in a split-screen view. Both nations have chartered somewhat similar political paths in their respective nationalist upsurge. In New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a new parliament building, the first one built after the end of British colonial rule in 1947, in a ceremony full of Hindu symbolism as saffron-clad Shaivaite gurus from Tamil Nadu helped him symbolically install a sceptre denoting a transfer of power -- or a reminder of the morally upright rule of Dharma, depending on who you are talking to. But in doing so, Modi was boycotted by a significant majority of opposition parties, who thought he had denigrated democracy with his authoritarian, personality-oriented inaugural ceremony. ALSO READ| Erdogan Vs Kilicdaroglu: Voting starts in Turkey’s first-ever presidential election runoff That should ring a bell in Ankara, where President Recep Tayyip Erdogan won re-election in a controversial run-off marked by a shaky mandate slammed by opposition groups as unfair. Erdogan's Islamist AKP (Justice and Development Party) could be called Turkey's Muslim nationalist equivalent of Modi's proudly Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party. (Image: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Credit: Reuters) The thing is, both Turkey and India are officially secular ruled by a constitution that does not discriminate on the basis of religion. But both Erdogan and Modi represent ideologies that lean heavily on religious and cultural symbols. Erdogan's electoral victory coincided with the 570th anniversary of the capture of Istanbul by Ottoman Sultan Mehmed II in 1453. Former Indian ambassador to West Asian countries, Talmiz Ahmad, describes Erdogan's return as a "triumph of Ottoman glory." Modi's parliament inauguration was on the birth anniversary of Veer Damodar Savarkar, considered the father of BJP's Hindutva ideology that places emphasis on the principle of India as the homeland of Hindus in which people of other origins or religious affiliations do not have equal prominence. Under Erdogan, Turkey has become Turkiye, symbolising a return to the Ottoman past, while Modi's followers are keen to refer to India as Bharat, its local and ancient appellation linked to a civilisation preceding Muslim-led invasions and incursions or British colonial rule. (Image: Archive image of Mahatma Gandhi. Credit: AFP) We need to back further into history for a deeper understanding. Mahatma Gandhi is considered the father of modern Indian nationalism and led the Indian National Congress that the BJP ousted from power in 2014. Modi pays tributes to Gandhi, but swears by the ideological thoughts of Savarkar, the man who opposed his secularist thought. Erdogan salutes Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the statesman who turned predominantly Islamic Turkey into a modern secular republic in 1923 after the collapse of the Ottoman Empire following the First World War but there is a catch. Though he says his country has "eternal respect" for Ataturk, a lot of what Erdogan does and says seems to fly in the face of Ataturk's liberal unifying outlook -- and that must sound familiar to Modi critics who say the BJP leader could not possibly be following both Savarkar and Gandhi at once. Image: Archive image of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. More interesting stuff. The road right next to the one where India's prime ministerial residence is housed is named after none other than Ataturk -- a symbol of anti-colonial solidarity between India and Turkey. And yes, Ankara has its own Mahatma Gandhi Caddesi (Street). Gandhi, despite his awe-inspiring stature, has been controversial in India for his support to the 1919-2024 Khilafat (Caliphate) Movement against British policy in Turkey that ended the Ottoman empire, whose glory Erdogan wants to restore. The non-violent Gandhi supported Khilafat to help unite Hindus and Muslims in the subcontinent against British rule, but critics say the seeds of the painful, bloody Partition that led to the carving of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan from undivided India were watered by the Khilafat movement. Gandhi reluctantly agreed to the Partition and was assassinated by Nathuram Godse, an associate of Savarkar, who was tried in the murder case but set free. So where does all this leave bilateral relations between the two countries? Turkey has long been a supporter of Pakistan in international fora on the Kashmir dispute between the subcontinent's divided nations. Its decision to stay away from Srinagar in Kashmir where a G-20 countries' meeting on tourism took place this month is only the latest in a series of such events. Yet, it is the same Turkey that lauded India and Gandhi when Modi's government sent vaccines to help the country fight the Covid-19 pandemic. India also helped Turkey last February with "Operation Dost' -- a medical and search-and-rescue mission involving a 99-member army team, when Turkey was shaken by a severe earthquake that killed tens of thousands of people. If a friend in need is a friend indeed, it is time for Turkey to recall how from Khilafat to Covid-19 and quake aid, India has been a supporter of just causes. (Image: Kemal Kilicdaroglu. Credit: Reuters) One thing Erdogan could do is to stop seeing India through the Pakistan prism. If his respect for Ataturk is not lip service, and if his gratitude to India runs deep, there are other ways to see India by engaging in meaningful conversations that recognise a new world order and stay mum on Kashmir. The Kashmir dispute is far more complex than simplistic Hindu-Muslim narratives would suggest -- and from distant Turkey, it is a blurred view. The most bizarre of coincidences is of course, the fact that the face of the man who narrowly lost to Erdogan, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, bears an uncanny resemblance to Mahatma Gandhi, or at least Ben Kingsley who played the independence leader in the Oscar-winning biopic. "Gandhi Kemal" is also famous for his humble style resembling the Mahatma and is a leader of CHP, the Republican People's Party founded by Ataturk. If that is what keeps Erdogan from recognising India in a new light, we should be looking at Freudian psychology than diplomatic principles to understand his mind. (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

From Khilafat to quake aid: Why re-elected Erdogan must see Gandhi and Modi's India in a new light

Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin's diplomatic visit to India is the centre of attention. The US defence secretary has arrived in India's capital city of New Delhi after taking part in the Shangri-La Summit in Singapore. Austin is currently in India for a two-day visit to discuss a variety of bilateral issues with India's defence minister, Rajnath Singh. This is the defence secretary's second visit to India; the previous one was in March 2021.

US praises India's vibrant democracy ahead of PM Modi's visit

It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country.

In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work.

We have come a long way from there, haven't we?

Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be.

Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level.

But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest.

Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army.

The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016.

I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries.

Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to read a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day.

Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie.

It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I.

When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government."

The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then.

Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country.

Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what.

Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy.

On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India.

Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal. 
 
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

&nbsp;

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It is indeed an honour for an Indian prime minister when he is invited to address a joint session of the Congress (parliament) of the United States, which, despite its hiccups, remains the world's sole superpower and the most powerful democracy to boot. The honour due this month for Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doubled when you realise that about 18 years ago, he was denied a visa by the same country. In 2005, Modi, then Gujarat chief minister and nowhere seen to be in the race to become the PM of the world's most populous democracy, was denied a diplomatic visa by the State Department because he was not qualified for that purpose and on top of that his existing tourist/business visa was revoked in a move clearly linked to Hindu-Muslim riots in his state in 2002. The visa denial was on the ground that Modi was seen as a person under the Immigration and Nationality Act "responsible for or directly carried out, at any time, particularly severe violations of religious freedom." The then-Congress party-led UPA government in New Delhi did request the US to review the decision in favour of its opposition BJP leader, but that did not work. We have come a long way from there, haven't we? Modi has indeed visited the US five times after assuming office in 2014 and things have changed a lot but it is time to add a few caveats because diplomacy is simply not what it used to be. Relations between countries are broadly seen as relations between its peoples, but in a world where liberalism, freedom of speech and democracy are expected to hang together (at least in principle), leaders have to contend with many facets of diplomacy. That is exactly the reality check Modi needs as he heads to the US for what is clearly a strategic bilateral relationship being taken to the next level. But first, the small detail of whether Modi's honour is rare as Indian prime ministers go. The rarity of his visit would come more from the fact that the joint Congress session delegates would be listening to a man to whom the State Department once denied a mere tourist visa than from his stature as the Indian PM, as his gushing followers on WhatsApp forwards suggest. Modi is the sixth Indian PM after Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajiv Gandhi, P.V. Narasimha Rao, Atal Behari Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh to address the joint session. I believe the significance is greater now more because of the geopolitical situation in which the US keen to enlarge its Asian influence to contain China amid India emerging as a key economic power with a vast technological army. The fact that Modi's June 22 speech would be his second to a joint Congress session after the visa denial makes it truly unprecedented and magnificent. He last addressed the House of Representatives and Senate members together in 2016. I have, however, little doubt that Track III diplomacy will continue to nag Modi. I define Track III diplomacy as a new-age term in a world connected by the Internet and social media to describe close contact, conversations, shouting matches and coordinated protests done by political dissidents and civil society groups of various countries. Track II diplomacy is a term normally used to describe informal and unofficial meetings between private individuals to read a common ground between official negotiators of two countries. These could be academics, activists, business leaders or non-governmental organisations. They usually have the blessings of the government of the day. Track III is a study in contrast. You could call it contra diplomacy that influences bilateral relations beyond the hugs, kisses and photo opportunities that show official bonhomie. It is now a hard reality because most democracies are now strained by concerns on extremism, dissidence and right-wing politics that bring race, religion, freedom of speech and human rights into mainstream diplomacy focused on security and trade. The reality gets harder when you realise that media conversations and Congressional hearings, Track III can influence Track II and I. When Modi faced Washington's visa ban in 2005, US Ambassador David Mulford mentioned that the "two great and vibrant democracies share common values on the freedom of speech, freedom of religion and representative government." The simple fact is that a lot has changed in both the US and India since then. Democrat President Joe Biden's Republican predecessor Donald Trump has faced extensive criticism or allegations of racism. In India, Modi has right-wing ideologues who frown on American "wokeism" that is now questioning the Indian practice of caste on US soil. And these wokes are close to Biden's Democratic party, whether Modi likes it or not. Anti-US protests are so common in India, that individual American presidents would be least bothered unlike Modi supporters fretting over US 'wokeism'. Trump and Modi both have fans and critics in each other's country. Modi's biggest baiter, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, has been in the US addressing the Indian diaspora, Stanford University dons and students and other forums slamming Modi's politics, policies and personality. US civil rights groups will continue to target Modi, no matter what. Modi's followers see this as an "anti-national" move as they expect (somewhat naively) that post-colonial ideas of national unity should be the norm. But India is no longer a freshly-minted independent nation. It is a colourful, noisy, reasonably mature democracy. On a recent visit to Australia, Modi pointed to the fact that his address to the Indian diaspora was attended by both the current Labor Prime Minister and the previous one from the Liberal Party sitting now in the opposition. While he did get a rockstar tag for his Sydney Olympic Park address to a 21,000-strong crowd, it is equally true that he was criticised in Canberra by Indian dissidents and human rights groups joining hands with Australian Greens at a private event hosted in Australia's national parliament premises where a BBC documentary critical of Modi was screened -- whereas it is banned in India. Historians and rights activists do not forget things in a hurry -- and that is the beauty of liberalism and democracy. As significantly liberal democracies, Australia and the US are more accepting of this truth. When he actually lands in the US, private conversations on Modi will not be limited to what is said in public by officials. Track III realism is part of the new normal. 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

Modi's US visit a rebound from historic lows, but dissident notes abound

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited by the US House speaker to address a joint meeting of the Congress on the 22nd of June during his State visit. This move underscores the efforts by the United States to strengthen ties between the oldest and the largest democracy in the world.

US house speaker extends invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Pakistan's Defence Minister, has warned that former prime minister Imran Khan is a "bigger threat" to the nation than Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On the other hand, India has emerged as one of the top buyers of Russian oil after Moscow invaded Ukraine. Historically allies, the two countries are settling a greater share of the trade in national currencies after Russia was cut off from the US dollar-dominated global payments systems.

Click on the news headline to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-declares-imran-khan-more-dangerous-than-indian-pm-narendra-modi-599722">Imran Khan 'more dangerous' than Indian PM Narendra Modi, warns Pakistan defence minister</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356394-imran-khan-and-narendra-modi.png?imwidth=1920" />

Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Pakistan's Defence Minister, has warned&nbsp;that former prime minister Imran Khan is a "bigger threat" to the nation than Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

The explosive comments were made on-air while Asif was speaking to a journalist on a Pakistani TV channel, "Your foreign enemy is known to you. In Pakistan, the people are still unable to identify the enemy who was born here and is a bigger threat than the enemy from that nation (India)."&nbsp;

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India has emerged as one of the top buyers of Russian oil after Moscow invaded Ukraine. Historically allies, the two countries are settling a greater share of the trade in national currencies after Russia was cut off from the US dollar-dominated global payments systems. Though it seems like a win-win situation for everybody, there is a problem. Russia does not know how to reap the benefits of this trade.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-coromandel-express-derails-in-odishas-balasore-several-passengers-injured-in-accident-599773">India: Coromandel Express derails in Odisha's Balasore, several passengers injured in accident</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356449-visuals-from-the-train-derailment.png?imwidth=1920" />

In an unfortunate turn of events on Friday evening, the Coromandel Express derailed close to Bahanaga Station in Balasore city in the Indian state of Odisha in which several passengers sustained injuries. As per local media reports, the cause of the accident was the collision of the express train with a goods train. A search and rescue operation is currently underway.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/akhan-bharat-mural-row-nepali-leaders-get-agitated-urges-prachanda-to-raise-issue-with-indian-officials-599638">'Akhand Bharat' mural row: Nepali leaders get irked, urge Prachanda to raise issue with Indian officials</a>

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The inauguration of the new Indian Parliament seems to be marred with a fresh controversy, this time a diplomatic one, over a mural inside the building that shows all the key kingdoms and ancient cities portraying ancient India. One of the cities shown in the mural which drew severe criticism is Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The mural, appears to have come from the concept of 'Akhand Bharat', a term that refers to the undivided India whose geographical area included present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/feel-sorry-for-him-he-faced-planet-earths-most-dangerous-bowlers-akhtar-on-tendulkar-hails-his-greatness-599684">'Feel sorry for him, he faced planet Earth’s most dangerous bowlers': Akhtar on Tendulkar, hails his greatness</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356376-shoaib-akhtar-hails-master-blaster.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Sachin Tendulkar had a stellar run in international cricket. He debuted at the age of 16 and played his last match at the age of 40, in late 2013. The Master Blaster ended with over 34,000 runs overall, along with as many as 100 centuries at the highest level. Thus, he is hailed as one of the greatest of all time. Recently, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar pointed out how Tendulkar battled against some of the greatest bowlers during his playing days and yet managed to dominate them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-explained-how-digital-doubles-ai-generated-trailers-put-hollywood-in-quandary-599643">Explained: How digital doubles, AI-generated trailers put Hollywood in a quandary</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356343-artificial-intelligence-in-movies.png?imwidth=1920" />

The rapid advancements of technology always ushered in new eras in Hollywood. The latest in this is the use of artificial intelligence (AI), which is both fascinating and deeply troubling. The rise of digital doubles and fake trailers generated by &nbsp;AI tools has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, leaving many horrified by the potential consequences. From rumours of digital creations of deceased actors to the de-aging of stars using AI, the line between reality and illusion is becoming increasingly blurred. One of the most disturbing reports circulating in Hollywood is the supposed cameo of a digital creation of the late Christopher Reeve in the upcoming film&nbsp;The Flash.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/milky-way-galaxy-has-hundreds-of-millions-of-potentially-habitable-planets-says-a-new-study-599720">Milky Way Galaxy has hundreds of millions of potentially habitable planets, says a new study</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356406-milky-way.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

A new study has suggested that the Milky Way Galaxy harbours one-third of planets that have water and as a consequence, are suitable for life. This study, based on recent telescope data provided by the Kepler Mission, states that there are billions of planets—which are smaller and cooler, with half the mass of the Sun —that revolve around M dwarfs (also knowns Red dwarf).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanzania-declares-end-of-deadly-outbreak-of-marburg-virus-says-who-599633">Tanzania declares end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak, says WHO</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356360-succession-86.png?imwidth=1920" />

World Health Organization released a statement on Friday informing that Tanzania has declared an end of the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus, the cases o which were first reported in the month of March this year.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-students-launch-indefinite-protests-in-canada-amid-growing-threat-of-deportation-599778">Former students launch indefinite protests in Canada amid growing threat of deportation</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/02/356451-succession-89.png?imwidth=1920" />

Several international students in Canada are staging indefinite protests amid a growing threat of their potential removal from the country. The demonstration, which began in the Greater Toronto Area &nbsp;(GTA) this week, is expected to continue till the deportation process is stopped.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-catholic-church-probe-reveals-728-priests-abused-children-over-eight-decades-599760">Spain's Catholic church probe reveals 728 priests abused children over eight decades</a>

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The issue of sexual abuse scandals in Catholic Churches continues to make headlines. The&nbsp;latest probe by the Spanish Catholic Church into such cases has unearthed even more grim details, reported Reuters. The investigation report identified as many as 728 alleged abusers, clergy and non-clerical staff, and 927 victims, over eight decades since the 1940s.&nbsp;

Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Pakistan's Defence Minister, has warned that former prime minister Imran Khan is a "bigger threat" to the nation than Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Pakistan's Defence Minister, has warned that former prime minister Imran Khan is a "bigger threat" to the nation than Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. On the other hand, India has emerged as one of the top buyers of Russian oil after Moscow invaded Ukraine. Historically allies, the two countries are settling a greater share of the trade in national currencies after Russia was cut off from the US dollar-dominated global payments systems. Click on the news headline to read more: Imran Khan 'more dangerous' than Indian PM Narendra Modi, warns Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Pakistan's Defence Minister, has warned that former prime minister Imran Khan is a "bigger threat" to the nation than Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The explosive comments were made on-air while Asif was speaking to a journalist on a Pakistani TV channel, "Your foreign enemy is known to you. In Pakistan, the people are still unable to identify the enemy who was born here and is a bigger threat than the enemy from that nation (India)." Russia does not know what to do with $147bn in rupees it has amassed India has emerged as one of the top buyers of Russian oil after Moscow invaded Ukraine. Historically allies, the two countries are settling a greater share of the trade in national currencies after Russia was cut off from the US dollar-dominated global payments systems. Though it seems like a win-win situation for everybody, there is a problem. Russia does not know how to reap the benefits of this trade. India: Coromandel Express derails in Odisha's Balasore, several passengers injured in accident In an unfortunate turn of events on Friday evening, the Coromandel Express derailed close to Bahanaga Station in Balasore city in the Indian state of Odisha in which several passengers sustained injuries. As per local media reports, the cause of the accident was the collision of the express train with a goods train. A search and rescue operation is currently underway. 'Akhand Bharat' mural row: Nepali leaders get irked, urge Prachanda to raise issue with Indian officials The inauguration of the new Indian Parliament seems to be marred with a fresh controversy, this time a diplomatic one, over a mural inside the building that shows all the key kingdoms and ancient cities portraying ancient India. One of the cities shown in the mural which drew severe criticism is Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The mural, appears to have come from the concept of 'Akhand Bharat', a term that refers to the undivided India whose geographical area included present-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand. 'Feel sorry for him, he faced planet Earth’s most dangerous bowlers': Akhtar on Tendulkar, hails his greatness Sachin Tendulkar had a stellar run in international cricket. He debuted at the age of 16 and played his last match at the age of 40, in late 2013. The Master Blaster ended with over 34,000 runs overall, along with as many as 100 centuries at the highest level. Thus, he is hailed as one of the greatest of all time. Recently, Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar pointed out how Tendulkar battled against some of the greatest bowlers during his playing days and yet managed to dominate them. Explained: How digital doubles, AI-generated trailers put Hollywood in a quandary The rapid advancements of technology always ushered in new eras in Hollywood. The latest in this is the use of artificial intelligence (AI), which is both fascinating and deeply troubling. The rise of digital doubles and fake trailers generated by AI tools has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, leaving many horrified by the potential consequences. From rumours of digital creations of deceased actors to the de-aging of stars using AI, the line between reality and illusion is becoming increasingly blurred. One of the most disturbing reports circulating in Hollywood is the supposed cameo of a digital creation of the late Christopher Reeve in the upcoming film The Flash. Milky Way Galaxy has hundreds of millions of potentially habitable planets, says a new study A new study has suggested that the Milky Way Galaxy harbours one-third of planets that have water and as a consequence, are suitable for life. This study, based on recent telescope data provided by the Kepler Mission, states that there are billions of planets—which are smaller and cooler, with half the mass of the Sun —that revolve around M dwarfs (also knowns Red dwarf). Tanzania declares end of deadly Marburg virus outbreak, says WHO World Health Organization released a statement on Friday informing that Tanzania has declared an end of the deadly outbreak of the Marburg virus, the cases o which were first reported in the month of March this year. Former students launch indefinite protests in Canada amid growing threat of deportation Several international students in Canada are staging indefinite protests amid a growing threat of their potential removal from the country. The demonstration, which began in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) this week, is expected to continue till the deportation process is stopped. Spain's Catholic church probe reveals 728 priests abused children over eight decades The issue of sexual abuse scandals in Catholic Churches continues to make headlines. The latest probe by the Spanish Catholic Church into such cases has unearthed even more grim details, reported Reuters. The investigation report identified as many as 728 alleged abusers, clergy and non-clerical staff, and 927 victims, over eight decades since the 1940s.

Top 10 world news: Pak defence min calls Imran Khan threat to nation, Train derails in Odisha, and more

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar met with visiting Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni in New Delhi on Tuesday to address important concerns such as capacity building, defence, and parliamentary cooperation, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

President Droupadi Murmu had earlier given King Sihamoni a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also present&nbsp;to receive the king at Rashtrapati Bhavan's forecourts, reported PTI.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a tweet said he was honoured to meet King Sihamoni.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It was a pleasure to interact with His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia today. We had a positive exchange of views on our close cultural and people to people ties and development partnership. <a href="https://twitter.com/PeacePalaceKH?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PeacePalaceKH</a> <a href="https://t.co/vx8H8wOYSO">pic.twitter.com/vx8H8wOYSO</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1663567939289890817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“His visit, as our two countries celebrate 70th anniversary of our diplomatic relations, reaffirms the strong civilisational bond between us.

“Today that is expressed in cooperation in heritage conservation, demining, water conservation and socio-economic projects,” he said.

The talks between Dhankhar and the Cambodian king "covered multiple areas of bilateral relations, including capacity building, conservation of architectural monuments, defence cooperation, including de-mining, and parliamentary cooperation," according to MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi.

The Vice President Secretariat said in a second tweet that Dhankhar recalled the warm welcome and good discussions he had during his visit to Cambodia for the India-ASEAN and East Asia Summits in November 2022.

This morning, a visiting dignitary paid respect to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat.

The Cambodian King landed here on Monday for his first state visit. He is joined by a 27-member high-level delegation&nbsp;that includes the minister of the royal palace, the minister of foreign affairs, and other top officials.

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-khalistan-references-dropped-from-class-12-political-science-textbook-598572">&nbsp;India: 'Khalistan' references dropped from Class 12 political science textbook</a>

<h2>India-Cambodia relations</h2>

The state visit concludes the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Cambodia, which were established in 1952, according to a statement from the MEA.

Bagchi stated that the visit was a chance to strengthen civilisational ties between India and Cambodia. This is the first visit by a Cambodian king in over six decades, the latest being that of the present king's father in 1963.

King Sihamoni will also hold discussions&nbsp;with the President Murmu and PM Modi on a bilateral basis. President&nbsp;Murmu will also host&nbsp;a state banquet&nbsp;in his honour.

ALSO WATCH | India faces massive youth unemployment crisis

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According to the MEA, India and Cambodia have friendly and cordial relations characterised by civilisational, cultural, and economic links as well as deep-rooted people-to-people relationships.

The multifaceted partnership is founded on similar cultural values, a commitment to fostering economic progress, defence and security coordination, and convergence on regional and global challenges.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar met with visiting Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni in New Delhi on Tuesday to address important concerns such as capacity building, defence, and parliamentary cooperation, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar met with visiting Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni in New Delhi on Tuesday to address important concerns such as capacity building, defence, and parliamentary cooperation, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. President Droupadi Murmu had earlier given King Sihamoni a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also present to receive the king at Rashtrapati Bhavan's forecourts, reported PTI. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a tweet said he was honoured to meet King Sihamoni. It was a pleasure to interact with His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni of Cambodia today. We had a positive exchange of views on our close cultural and people to people ties and development partnership. @PeacePalaceKH pic.twitter.com/vx8H8wOYSO — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 30, 2023 × “His visit, as our two countries celebrate 70th anniversary of our diplomatic relations, reaffirms the strong civilisational bond between us. “Today that is expressed in cooperation in heritage conservation, demining, water conservation and socio-economic projects,” he said. The talks between Dhankhar and the Cambodian king "covered multiple areas of bilateral relations, including capacity building, conservation of architectural monuments, defence cooperation, including de-mining, and parliamentary cooperation," according to MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi. The Vice President Secretariat said in a second tweet that Dhankhar recalled the warm welcome and good discussions he had during his visit to Cambodia for the India-ASEAN and East Asia Summits in November 2022. This morning, a visiting dignitary paid respect to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat. The Cambodian King landed here on Monday for his first state visit. He is joined by a 27-member high-level delegation that includes the minister of the royal palace, the minister of foreign affairs, and other top officials. ALSO READ | India: 'Khalistan' references dropped from Class 12 political science textbook India-Cambodia relations The state visit concludes the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between India and Cambodia, which were established in 1952, according to a statement from the MEA. Bagchi stated that the visit was a chance to strengthen civilisational ties between India and Cambodia. This is the first visit by a Cambodian king in over six decades, the latest being that of the present king's father in 1963. King Sihamoni will also hold discussions with the President Murmu and PM Modi on a bilateral basis. President Murmu will also host a state banquet in his honour. ALSO WATCH | India faces massive youth unemployment crisis According to the MEA, India and Cambodia have friendly and cordial relations characterised by civilisational, cultural, and economic links as well as deep-rooted people-to-people relationships. The multifaceted partnership is founded on similar cultural values, a commitment to fostering economic progress, defence and security coordination, and convergence on regional and global challenges. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: VP Dhankar, Cambodian king discuss defence, parliamentary cooperation

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