<p>Micron Technology Inc., the Idaho-headquartered semiconductor major&nbsp;is reportedly&nbsp;nearing an agreement to invest at least $1 billion in establishing a semiconductor packaging factory in India.</p>

<p>The move aims to diversify Micron's geographic presence amid growing geopolitical competition between the United States and China. An official announcement formalising the deal could be made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to the United States next week.</p>

<p>The individuals familiar with the matter cited by Bloomberg&nbsp;mentioned that the committed amount could potentially reach $2 billion.</p>

<h2><strong>What would it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>If the deal formalises, it would signify a triumph for India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious 'Make in India' initiative. For Washington, it presents an opportunity to strengthen its critical supply chains outside of China.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chip-war-intensifies-lawmakers-want-us-to-blacklist-chinese-firm-after-micron-ban-596235">Chip war intensifies: Lawmakers want US to 'blacklist' Chinese firm after Micron ban</a></strong></p>

<p>Enhancing technological trade between the two countries is a key focus of Modi's state visit, as highlighted by US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan during his visit to New Delhi earlier this week.</p>

<h2><strong>China's ban on Micron chips</strong></h2>

<p>This investment in India follows the Chinese ban on the use of Micron chips in what Beijing deemed as critical infrastructure, which introduced uncertainty regarding the status of US chipmakers in the world's largest semiconductor market.</p>

<h2><b>American efforts to diversify chips supply</b></h2>

<p>Amid rising tensions with China and concerns about dependence on manufacturing hubs like Taiwan, the United States is actively promoting the diversification of advanced chip production.</p>

<p>In line with this, Micron, the largest American memory chipmaker, has also secured financial assistance for a planned $3.6 billion next-generation plant in Japan.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi's US visit</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to embark on his inaugural formal state visit on June 21, where he will be hosted by President Joe Biden for a banquet the following day. Modi will also address the US Congress during his visit.</p>

<p>As part of his efforts to attract chipmakers to India, Modi has pledged $10 billion, with his administration committing to cover&nbsp;half the cost of establishing all semiconductor facilities.</p>

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Micron Technology Inc., the Idaho-headquartered semiconductor major is reportedly nearing an agreement to invest at least $1 billion in establishing a semiconductor packaging factory in India.

Micron Technology Inc., the Idaho-headquartered semiconductor major is reportedly nearing an agreement to invest at least $1 billion in establishing a semiconductor packaging factory in India. The move aims to diversify Micron's geographic presence amid growing geopolitical competition between the United States and China. An official announcement formalising the deal could be made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to the United States next week. The individuals familiar with the matter cited by Bloomberg mentioned that the committed amount could potentially reach $2 billion. What would it mean? If the deal formalises, it would signify a triumph for India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambitious 'Make in India' initiative. For Washington, it presents an opportunity to strengthen its critical supply chains outside of China. Also read | Chip war intensifies: Lawmakers want US to 'blacklist' Chinese firm after Micron ban Enhancing technological trade between the two countries is a key focus of Modi's state visit, as highlighted by US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan during his visit to New Delhi earlier this week. China's ban on Micron chips This investment in India follows the Chinese ban on the use of Micron chips in what Beijing deemed as critical infrastructure, which introduced uncertainty regarding the status of US chipmakers in the world's largest semiconductor market. American efforts to diversify chips supply Amid rising tensions with China and concerns about dependence on manufacturing hubs like Taiwan, the United States is actively promoting the diversification of advanced chip production. In line with this, Micron, the largest American memory chipmaker, has also secured financial assistance for a planned $3.6 billion next-generation plant in Japan. Modi's US visit Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to embark on his inaugural formal state visit on June 21, where he will be hosted by President Joe Biden for a banquet the following day. Modi will also address the US Congress during his visit. As part of his efforts to attract chipmakers to India, Modi has pledged $10 billion, with his administration committing to cover half the cost of establishing all semiconductor facilities. 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 expects to trump China with landmark semiconductor deal during US visit

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India and the United States share an “unprecedented” trust, and added that New Delhi had not faced widespread criticism over its stance on the Russia-Ukraine war.</p>

<p>In an interview to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) ahead of his official state visit to US, Modi said that the growth in trust is underlined by growing defence cooperation between the two countries as “an important pillar of our partnership,” which “extends to trade, technology and energy”.</p>

<p>The ties between the two democratic nations have attained new heights in recent years, especially in the wake of China’s growing assertiveness at&nbsp;the border&nbsp;near India, and the South China Sea.</p>

<p>However, there have been some concerns in Washington over India’s close ties with Russia, one of the major exporters of arms and oil to New Delhi. Washington has long sought to replace Russia as the major defence supplier to India.</p>

<h2><strong>On Russia-Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Responding to the reports that Washington has been pressurising India to ditch Russian oil and equipment, and take a more assertive stance in the war, Modi said, “I don’t think this type of perception is widespread in the US.”</p>

<p>“I think India’s position is well known and well understood in the entire world. The world has full confidence that India’s topmost priority is peace.”</p>

<p>The Indian leader said that he had spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky several times, and added that India would do whatever it could and supported "all genuine efforts to bring an end to the conflict and ensure enduring peace and stability.”</p>

<h2><strong>Defence on agenda of Biden-Modi talks</strong></h2>

<p>Defence and trade would be the key talking points of Prime Minister Modi and US President Joe Biden’s impending bilateral meeting at the White House.</p>

<h2><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-first-state-visit-to-us-eye-on-chinas-territorial-ambitions-606315/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></h2>

<p>Modi is expected to announce key defence pacts signed between India and US, including joint manufacturing of General Electric fighter jet engines, India’s purchase of 31 armed MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones made by General Atomics worth $3 billion, and smoother trade in defence and technology.</p>

<p>Modi said that unlike its earlier vision for non-alignment (the idea propounded by India’s first PM Jawaharlal Nehru), India’s foreign policy is guided by advancing its interests by forging tries with a range of global powers, including those in conflict with each other.</p>

<p>He said that since he is the first prime minister to be born in free India, his thought process is influenced by the country’s attributes and traditions.</p>

<p>“India deserves a much higher, deeper and wider profile and a role," Modi told WSJ.</p>

<h2><strong>On China </strong></h2>

<p>India and China’s relations have seen a sharp decline since the Galwan Valley clash in 2020 near Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives.</p>

<p>Both countries have held 18 rounds of military talks since 2020 aimed at curbing the dispute from spiralling into wider conflict.</p>

<p>Speaking on the fraught relations with China, Modi said, “For normal bilateral ties with China, peace and tranquillity in the border areas is essential.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opportunity-to-enrich-indo-us-partnership-says-pm-modi-as-he-leaves-for-us-606290">Opportunity to enrich Indo-US partnership, says PM Modi as he leaves for US</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;“We have a core belief in respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, observing the rule of law and peaceful resolution of differences and disputes. At the same time, India is fully prepared and committed to protect its sovereignty and dignity.”</p>

<h2><strong>On UN reforms</strong></h2>

<p>Modi highlighted that United Nations Security Council needs urgent reform and called for India’s growing role in the all-powerful institution citing its contribution of troops for peacekeeping operations around the world.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vegetarian-chef-grammy-winning-violinist-how-white-house-is-preparing-for-pm-modis-state-visit-606223">Vegetarian chef, Grammy-winning violinist: How White House is preparing for PM Modi's state visit</a></p>

<p>“There has to be an evaluation of the current membership” of the council “and the world should be asked if it wants India to be there.”</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India and the United States share an “unprecedented” trust, and added that New Delhi had not faced widespread criticism over its stance on the Russia-Ukraine war.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India and the United States share an “unprecedented” trust, and added that New Delhi had not faced widespread criticism over its stance on the Russia-Ukraine war. In an interview to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) ahead of his official state visit to US, Modi said that the growth in trust is underlined by growing defence cooperation between the two countries as “an important pillar of our partnership,” which “extends to trade, technology and energy”. The ties between the two democratic nations have attained new heights in recent years, especially in the wake of China’s growing assertiveness at the border near India, and the South China Sea. However, there have been some concerns in Washington over India’s close ties with Russia, one of the major exporters of arms and oil to New Delhi. Washington has long sought to replace Russia as the major defence supplier to India. On Russia-Ukraine Responding to the reports that Washington has been pressurising India to ditch Russian oil and equipment, and take a more assertive stance in the war, Modi said, “I don’t think this type of perception is widespread in the US.” “I think India’s position is well known and well understood in the entire world. The world has full confidence that India’s topmost priority is peace.” The Indian leader said that he had spoken to Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky several times, and added that India would do whatever it could and supported "all genuine efforts to bring an end to the conflict and ensure enduring peace and stability.” Defence on agenda of Biden-Modi talks Defence and trade would be the key talking points of Prime Minister Modi and US President Joe Biden’s impending bilateral meeting at the White House. Modi is expected to announce key defence pacts signed between India and US, including joint manufacturing of General Electric fighter jet engines, India’s purchase of 31 armed MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones made by General Atomics worth $3 billion, and smoother trade in defence and technology. Modi said that unlike its earlier vision for non-alignment (the idea propounded by India’s first PM Jawaharlal Nehru), India’s foreign policy is guided by advancing its interests by forging tries with a range of global powers, including those in conflict with each other. He said that since he is the first prime minister to be born in free India, his thought process is influenced by the country’s attributes and traditions. “India deserves a much higher, deeper and wider profile and a role," Modi told WSJ. On China India and China’s relations have seen a sharp decline since the Galwan Valley clash in 2020 near Ladakh in which 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives. Both countries have held 18 rounds of military talks since 2020 aimed at curbing the dispute from spiralling into wider conflict. Speaking on the fraught relations with China, Modi said, “For normal bilateral ties with China, peace and tranquillity in the border areas is essential. Also read | Opportunity to enrich Indo-US partnership, says PM Modi as he leaves for US “We have a core belief in respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, observing the rule of law and peaceful resolution of differences and disputes. At the same time, India is fully prepared and committed to protect its sovereignty and dignity.” On UN reforms Modi highlighted that United Nations Security Council needs urgent reform and called for India’s growing role in the all-powerful institution citing its contribution of troops for peacekeeping operations around the world. Also read | Vegetarian chef, Grammy-winning violinist: How White House is preparing for PM Modi's state visit “There has to be an evaluation of the current membership” of the council “and the world should be asked if it wants India to be there.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India and US share ‘unprecedented’ trust, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi

<p>Nina Curtis, a plant-based chef from Sacramento, California, will be the dinner's guest chef when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States for the state dinner, CNN reported quoting first lady Dr Jill Biden's office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Curtis will be working with White House Executive Chef Cris Comerford, and White House Executive Pastry Chef Susie Morrison to develop the menu, the report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The US President Joe Biden and the first lady will welcome PM Modi to Washington for an official state visit on Thursday and the preparations are underway at the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local reports have mentioned that the White House has given close attention to all the details in advance, which includes catering, dietary restrictions of the guests, entertainment, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi is a vegetarian and the media outlet quoted a White House official as saying that "the First Lady selected Chef Curtis for her experience with plant-based cuisine".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-us-visit-pm-modi-to-address-indian-diaspora-in-two-hour-long-event-top-5-points-605981">PM Modi's US visit: PM Modi to address Indian diaspora in two-hour-long event | Top 5 points</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>The office of the first lady further mentioned that Grammy Award-winning American violinist and conductor Joshua Bell will provide the evening's entertainment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Entertainment is a key element of state dinners. American artists have performed at the White House for more than two hundred years, and the showcase performances have often reflected the musical tastes of first families or their guests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>White House mentioned in a document that the Marine Band has been a presence at the President's House since it first played for President John Adams and First Lady Abigail Adams's New Year's Day reception in 1801.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;PM Modi's US visit: New Delhi keen to get the know-how to make aircraft engines&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The document authored by former White House curator Betty Monkman said that state dinners are "a courtesy, an expression of goodwill, and a way of extending hospitality," as well as "an event that also showcases global power and influence".&nbsp;</p>

<p>These extravagant dinners are organised with the office of the first lady working closely with her social team, executive residence staff from the calligraphers to the florists to the pastry chefs and the State Department in preparation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of PM Modi's visit, US National security adviser Jake Sullivan travelled to India and met with the Indian prime minister and other officials.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
A readout of Sullivan's trip mentioned: "He reviewed preparations for the upcoming official state visit of the prime minister, and discussed a range of strategic, regional, and bilateral issues including steps to advance the strategic technology and defense partnership between the United States and India."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>People in US sharing enthusiasm</strong></h2>

<p>Modi on Monday said that people from all walks of life have been sharing their enthusiasm on his upcoming visit to that country, and said such diverse support underlines the depth of the India-US relationship.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"People from all walks of life including Members of Congress, thought leaders and others have been sharing their enthusiasm on my upcoming USA visit," Modi said in a tweet.</p>

<p>"I thank them for their kind words. Such diverse support underlines the depth of the India-USA relationship," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">People from all walks of life including Members of Congress, thought leaders and others have been sharing their enthusiasm on my upcoming USA visit. I thank them for their kind words. Such diverse support underlines the depth of the India-USA relationship. <a href="https://t.co/lNXuQxtzJs">https://t.co/lNXuQxtzJs</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1670831442178490372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Nina Curtis, a plant-based chef from Sacramento, California, will be the dinner's guest chef when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States for the state dinner, CNN reported quoting first lady Dr Jill Biden's office.

Nina Curtis, a plant-based chef from Sacramento, California, will be the dinner's guest chef when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the United States for the state dinner, CNN reported quoting first lady Dr Jill Biden's office. Curtis will be working with White House Executive Chef Cris Comerford, and White House Executive Pastry Chef Susie Morrison to develop the menu, the report added. The US President Joe Biden and the first lady will welcome PM Modi to Washington for an official state visit on Thursday and the preparations are underway at the White House. Local reports have mentioned that the White House has given close attention to all the details in advance, which includes catering, dietary restrictions of the guests, entertainment, and more. PM Modi is a vegetarian and the media outlet quoted a White House official as saying that "the First Lady selected Chef Curtis for her experience with plant-based cuisine". Also read: PM Modi's US visit: PM Modi to address Indian diaspora in two-hour-long event | Top 5 points The office of the first lady further mentioned that Grammy Award-winning American violinist and conductor Joshua Bell will provide the evening's entertainment. Entertainment is a key element of state dinners. American artists have performed at the White House for more than two hundred years, and the showcase performances have often reflected the musical tastes of first families or their guests. White House mentioned in a document that the Marine Band has been a presence at the President's House since it first played for President John Adams and First Lady Abigail Adams's New Year's Day reception in 1801. Watch: PM Modi's US visit: New Delhi keen to get the know-how to make aircraft engines × The document authored by former White House curator Betty Monkman said that state dinners are "a courtesy, an expression of goodwill, and a way of extending hospitality," as well as "an event that also showcases global power and influence". These extravagant dinners are organised with the office of the first lady working closely with her social team, executive residence staff from the calligraphers to the florists to the pastry chefs and the State Department in preparation. Ahead of PM Modi's visit, US National security adviser Jake Sullivan travelled to India and met with the Indian prime minister and other officials. A readout of Sullivan's trip mentioned: "He reviewed preparations for the upcoming official state visit of the prime minister, and discussed a range of strategic, regional, and bilateral issues including steps to advance the strategic technology and defense partnership between the United States and India." People in US sharing enthusiasm Modi on Monday said that people from all walks of life have been sharing their enthusiasm on his upcoming visit to that country, and said such diverse support underlines the depth of the India-US relationship. "People from all walks of life including Members of Congress, thought leaders and others have been sharing their enthusiasm on my upcoming USA visit," Modi said in a tweet. "I thank them for their kind words. Such diverse support underlines the depth of the India-USA relationship," he said. People from all walks of life including Members of Congress, thought leaders and others have been sharing their enthusiasm on my upcoming USA visit. I thank them for their kind words. Such diverse support underlines the depth of the India-USA relationship. https://t.co/lNXuQxtzJs — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 19, 2023 × (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.

Vegetarian chef, Grammy-winning violinist: How White House is preparing for PM Modi's state visit

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Narendra Modi in US: The current visit</strong></h2>

<p>To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Modi in US: The previous visits</strong></h2>

<p><em><strong>26–30 September 2014</strong></em></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>He also met with the-then US President Barack Obama and sought investment from prominent CEOs.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p><strong><em>24–30 September 2015</em></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>Modi also met heads of various business firms.</p>

<p><em><strong>March 31 - April 1 2016</strong></em></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>As per the Obama White House archive website, during their third bilateral meeting, the two leaders reviewed and reaffirmed their deepening strategic partnership.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em><strong>6–8&nbsp;June&nbsp;2016</strong></em></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"Our relationship is primed for a momentous future," he said.</p>

<p><em><strong>25–26 June&nbsp;2017 </strong></em></p>

<p>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".</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p><em><strong>20–27 September 2019</strong></em></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em><strong>23–25 September 2021</strong></em></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>In Washington, he met Biden and also held a meeting with United States Vice President Kamala Harris.</p>

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&nbsp;<br />
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;</p>

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<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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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

<p>An ardent fan of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Maryland, United States, got a car number plate 'NMODI'.<br />
<br />
NRI Raghavendra, speaking to the news agency ANI, said that the prime minister is an inspiration to him and he has been waiting eagerly to welcome PM Modi in the US.<br />
<br />
"I took this plate back in 2016, November. Narendra Modi is an inspiration to me. He inspires me to do something good for the nation, for society, for the world. PM Modi is coming here so I'm eagerly waiting to welcome him," Raghavendra stated.<br />
<br />
Apart from the name of the prime minister, the car also has the state name Virginia written on it.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | A 'fan' of PM Narendra Modi flaunts "NMODI" car number plate in Maryland, USA <a href="https://t.co/AO5WRwdGoa">pic.twitter.com/AO5WRwdGoa</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1669898905214156800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, ahead of PM Narendra Modi's upcoming US visit, the Indian Tricolour was seen fluttering outside the White House, in Washington, DC on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/narendra-modis-us-visit-a-watershed-moment-for-india-us-ties-605341">Narendra Modi's US Visit: A watershed moment for India-US ties</a></p>

<p>Speaking about Modi's awaited US visit, an Indian national living in New Jersey, Jesal Nar, said, "It's really an honour and pride to see the tricolour. I go across the United States for my work purpose carrying a tricolour."</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's US visit</strong></h2>

<p>Indian prime minister will be embarking on his first state visit to the United States next week. PM Modi is set to address the Joint Sitting of the US Congress from June 20-24 and is also set to meet various American politicians, noted personalities and prominent citizens from the diaspora.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, practice for the ceremonial welcome of the prime minister is underway on the South Lawn of the White House. Children were seen practising for the welcome ceremony of the Indian PM Modi.<br />
<br />
The prime minister will be visiting the United States after&nbsp;receiving invitations from US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden.<br />
<br />
PM Modi's visit will commence in New York where he will lead the International Day of Yoga's celebrations at the United Nations Headquarters on June 21.<br />
<br />
Recently, US Congressman Buddy Carter stated that the nation is waiting to hear PM Modi address a joint session of the US Congress.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;PM Modi’s US visit: What’s on the agenda?</strong></p>

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<p>"US-India relationship is very important. We are looking forward to hearing PM Modi address the joint session. PM Modi has served the people well," stated Carter on PM Modi's visit to the US.<br />
<br />
Speaking on PM Modi's visit, US Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith said, "Next week, we will be honoured to have him (PM Modi) address a joint meeting of the Congress underscoring the significance of the relationship between the US and India."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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An ardent fan of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Maryland, United States, got a car number plate 'NMODI'. NRI Raghavendra, speaking to the news agency ANI, said that the prime minister is an inspiration to him and he has been waiting eagerly to welcome PM Modi in the US.

An ardent fan of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Maryland, United States, got a car number plate 'NMODI'. NRI Raghavendra, speaking to the news agency ANI, said that the prime minister is an inspiration to him and he has been waiting eagerly to welcome PM Modi in the US. "I took this plate back in 2016, November. Narendra Modi is an inspiration to me. He inspires me to do something good for the nation, for society, for the world. PM Modi is coming here so I'm eagerly waiting to welcome him," Raghavendra stated. Apart from the name of the prime minister, the car also has the state name Virginia written on it. #WATCH | A 'fan' of PM Narendra Modi flaunts "NMODI" car number plate in Maryland, USA pic.twitter.com/AO5WRwdGoa — ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2023 × Meanwhile, ahead of PM Narendra Modi's upcoming US visit, the Indian Tricolour was seen fluttering outside the White House, in Washington, DC on Friday. ALSO READ | Narendra Modi's US Visit: A watershed moment for India-US ties Speaking about Modi's awaited US visit, an Indian national living in New Jersey, Jesal Nar, said, "It's really an honour and pride to see the tricolour. I go across the United States for my work purpose carrying a tricolour." PM Modi's US visit Indian prime minister will be embarking on his first state visit to the United States next week. PM Modi is set to address the Joint Sitting of the US Congress from June 20-24 and is also set to meet various American politicians, noted personalities and prominent citizens from the diaspora. Meanwhile, practice for the ceremonial welcome of the prime minister is underway on the South Lawn of the White House. Children were seen practising for the welcome ceremony of the Indian PM Modi. The prime minister will be visiting the United States after receiving invitations from US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. PM Modi's visit will commence in New York where he will lead the International Day of Yoga's celebrations at the United Nations Headquarters on June 21. Recently, US Congressman Buddy Carter stated that the nation is waiting to hear PM Modi address a joint session of the US Congress. WATCH | PM Modi’s US visit: What’s on the agenda? "US-India relationship is very important. We are looking forward to hearing PM Modi address the joint session. PM Modi has served the people well," stated Carter on PM Modi's visit to the US. Speaking on PM Modi's visit, US Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith said, "Next week, we will be honoured to have him (PM Modi) address a joint meeting of the Congress underscoring the significance of the relationship between the US and India." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: PM Narendra Modi's fan gets car number plate 'NMODI', elated over his US visit

<p>India’s permanent representative to the United Nations Ruchira Kamboj underscored the importance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi presiding Yoga Day celebrations at the UN headquarters in New York, saying that it is one of the most anticipated events in which representatives from 195 countries are expected to participate in it.</p>

<p>Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the Indian envoy said that Modi leading yoga celebrations on June 21 is historic and is reflective of India’s standing in the world order.</p>

<p>“There are three things why I think this year’s yoga day is significant. First and foremost is the very inclusive aspect of it, because all 195 countries are expected to participate in it. This event sort of unites people with different cultural backgrounds. Second is the alignment of yoga with the UN sustainable development goals with an emphasis on health and well-being, as yoga aligns well with SDG 3 (health), and SDG 4 (Education).”</p>

<p>“And with its emphasis on mindfulness, and being very conscious of oneself and the environment, it is also related to SDG Goal 12 (mindful consumption and production) and SDG Goal 13 (environment),” Kamboj told WION.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi's US Visit: Times Square in NYC to witness yoga celebrations</strong></h2>

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<p>Highlighting the importance of this event, Kamboj added, “We all know yoga is very popular, but this time another layer is being added and that is the popularity of the PM himself. So many people are thrilled that he will be leading us, and it is also the reflection of the standing of the country.”</p>

<p>Speaking about the long-anticipated United Nations reforms, Kamboj said that the debate, which was first raised by India, is gradually gaining ground among other nations who are calling for urgent restructuring of the present order.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-proposes-african-unions-full-membership-at-new-delhis-g20-summit-605618">Indian PM Modi proposes African Union’s full membership at New Delhi G20 Summit</a></p>

<p>“The issue of UNSC reform is linked to the broader reform of the international architecture, which is clearly outdated, be it the financial institutions or the UN. So, there is broad support across the UN.”</p>

<p>“During 77th UNGA in September, about 75 heads of state agreed that the Security Council needs to be reformed. As the debate has progressed this year, there are many voices who feel that this is something that is long overdue and that action must be taken forward.”</p>

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India’s permanent representative to the United Nations Ruchira Kamboj underscored the importance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi presiding Yoga Day celebrations at the UN headquarters in New York, saying that it is one of the most anticipated events in which representatives from 195 countries are expected to participate in it.

India’s permanent representative to the United Nations Ruchira Kamboj underscored the importance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi presiding Yoga Day celebrations at the UN headquarters in New York, saying that it is one of the most anticipated events in which representatives from 195 countries are expected to participate in it. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the Indian envoy said that Modi leading yoga celebrations on June 21 is historic and is reflective of India’s standing in the world order. “There are three things why I think this year’s yoga day is significant. First and foremost is the very inclusive aspect of it, because all 195 countries are expected to participate in it. This event sort of unites people with different cultural backgrounds. Second is the alignment of yoga with the UN sustainable development goals with an emphasis on health and well-being, as yoga aligns well with SDG 3 (health), and SDG 4 (Education).” “And with its emphasis on mindfulness, and being very conscious of oneself and the environment, it is also related to SDG Goal 12 (mindful consumption and production) and SDG Goal 13 (environment),” Kamboj told WION. PM Modi's US Visit: Times Square in NYC to witness yoga celebrations Highlighting the importance of this event, Kamboj added, “We all know yoga is very popular, but this time another layer is being added and that is the popularity of the PM himself. So many people are thrilled that he will be leading us, and it is also the reflection of the standing of the country.” Speaking about the long-anticipated United Nations reforms, Kamboj said that the debate, which was first raised by India, is gradually gaining ground among other nations who are calling for urgent restructuring of the present order. Also read | Indian PM Modi proposes African Union’s full membership at New Delhi G20 Summit “The issue of UNSC reform is linked to the broader reform of the international architecture, which is clearly outdated, be it the financial institutions or the UN. So, there is broad support across the UN.” “During 77th UNGA in September, about 75 heads of state agreed that the Security Council needs to be reformed. As the debate has progressed this year, there are many voices who feel that this is something that is long overdue and that action must be taken forward.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Many thrilled that PM Modi is leading Yoga Day event at UN: Indian envoy Ruchira Kamboj

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This will be Modi's sixth overall visit to the US since taking over as PM in 2014. However, this visit is significant as he has been invited by President Joe Biden for his first state visit to the US. A state visit to the US is a coveted and unique honour, the US President accords to his closest friends and allies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This visit is poised to witness the forging of significant deals, fostering bonhomie between leaders, and shaping the course of global geopolitics. With a shared commitment to democratic values, the US and India are set to deepen their cooperation across various sectors, from trade to technology and from security to climate change. The visit is set to bolster economic ties and strengthen diplomatic relations.</p>

<p>One of the key deals likely to be announced is the $1.8 billion deal for 18 Predator-B armed drones. These drones can long-range precision strikes and surveillance along borders and maritime areas. India and the US&nbsp;are also close to signing a military deal that would allow them to jointly develop fighter jet engines. Massachusetts-based aerospace manufacturing giant General Electric Co. (GE) will join hands with state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. to produce the engines for the Tejas light-combat aircraft.</p>

<p><strong>Watch this report:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>On June 22, Modi will also address a joint session of the US Congress, becoming the sixth Indian Prime Minister to do so. While the Democrats and Republicans disagree on most of the issues, the two political rivals got together to send a bipartisan invite to Modi to address the joint meeting of Congress.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Modi's visit comes at a time when India and the US are facing multiple challenges as well as opportunities in a rapidly changing world. The two countries have forged a close strategic partnership over the years, based on shared values and interests. They have cooperated on various global issues, such as combating terrorism, promoting democracy and human rights, advancing clean energy and fighting COVID-19.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The visit will also bring into focus the growing people-to-people ties between the two countries, especially among the youth and diaspora. The US&nbsp;is home to over four&nbsp;million Indian Americans, who have made significant contributions to various sectors. Modi enjoys high popularity among them and has addressed several large gatherings of them during his previous visits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two countries have had a long cultural and intellectual exchange history since the late 19th century. One of the earliest examples was Swami Vivekananda's visit to America in 1893. As a young monk, he introduced Hinduism to the US&nbsp;at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. He delivered a landmark speech celebrating toleration and universal acceptance of all religions.</p>

<p>Since then, many Indian leaders have visited the US and many American presidents have visited India. Some of these visits have been memorable for their impact on bilateral relations and global affairs.</p>

<p>- India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's visit to Washington in 1949 marked the beginning of diplomatic ties between independent India and the US.</p>
<img alt="Nehru" data-caption="&lt;strong&gt;File photo:&lt;/strong&gt; Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru visits physicist Albert Einstein at Princeton University 8 November 1949. &lt;strong&gt;Credit: AFP&lt;/strong&gt;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6c5271e2-3f30-4ffd-a9d9-dac507168bfe" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_APP2001012403920.jpg" />
<p>-Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. visited India in 1959 for a month-long tour. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent struggle for national independence, King said said 'Non-violence is the most potent weapon available to oppressed people in their struggle for justice and human dignity.'</p>

<p>- Dwight Eisenhower's visit to New Delhi in 1959 was the first by a US&nbsp;president to India and boosted cooperation on agriculture and development. He also addressed the Indian parliament.</p>
<img alt="Dwight Eisenhower" data-caption="&lt;strong&gt;Archive photo:&amp;nbsp;&lt;/strong&gt;Dwight Eisenhower became the first serving US president to visit the country." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="549ef15f-8974-40a2-96e0-931049a4a474" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dwight%20Eisenhower.png" />
<p>- John F. Kennedy's meeting with Indira Gandhi in Washington in 1961 laid the foundation for a strategic partnership on defence and security.</p>

<p>- Richard Nixon's visit to New Delhi in 1969 was marred by protests over his support for Pakistan during the Bangladesh conflict.</p>

<p>- Indira Gandhi's visit to Washington in 1982 revived ties after a period of estrangement due to India's nuclear test in 1974.</p>
<img alt="Gandhi" data-caption="&lt;strong&gt;Archive photo:&lt;/strong&gt; Indira Gandhi meets with President Ronald Reagan during a state visit." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="10cc9415-4402-45a1-b54c-8f4a78e26e9c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/gandhi.png" />
<p>-In 1978 U.S. President Jimmy Carter visited India on a three-day official trip. He visited a Gurugram village, Daulatpur Nasirabad, which was renamed Carterpuri.</p>

<p>- Bill Clinton's visit to India in 2000 was hailed as a watershed moment for transforming relations into a 'natural alliance'.&nbsp;</p>
<img alt="Bill Clinton" data-caption="&lt;strong&gt;File photo:&amp;nbsp;&lt;/strong&gt;Bill Clinton is showered with flower petals as he dances with local villagers to folk music after touring Nayla Village, 23 March 2000 in Nayla, India.&lt;strong&gt; Credit: AFP&lt;/strong&gt;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60eb97d3-b945-4036-85e1-ded9d229a966" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Bill%20Clinton.jpg" />
<p>- Atal Bihari Vajpayee's visit to Washington in 2000&nbsp;declared that India and the US&nbsp;were 'natural allies' and signed a landmark civil nuclear deal.</p>
<img alt="atal" data-caption="&lt;strong&gt;File photo: &lt;/strong&gt;Bill Clinton (R) and Atal Behari Vajpayee sit as they review US troops during an arrival ceremony, 15 September 2000 at the White House in Washington, DC. &lt;strong&gt;Credit: AFP&amp;nbsp;&lt;/strong&gt;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="deb2630c-7f4f-484d-9764-376833cead2a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_APW2000091535920.jpg" />
<p>-In 2006 President George Bush visited India, where he and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh finalised the framework of the civil nuclear deal, boosting security and economic ties.&nbsp;</p>
<img alt="Bush" data-caption="&lt;strong&gt;File photo: &lt;/strong&gt;George W. Bush (L) shakes hands with Manmohan Singh (R) at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi 02 March 2006.&lt;strong&gt; Credit: AFP&lt;/strong&gt;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7fe6b49a-1510-4cb7-ab01-6aad2c88562d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Del25663.jpg" />
<p>-In 2009 U.S. President Barack Obama hosted the inaugural state visit of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. A visit which highlighted the growing bonhomie between New Delhi &amp; Washington.</p>

<p>- A year later, Barack Obama's visit to India was historic as he became the first US&nbsp;president to attend the Republic Day parade as chief guest.</p>
<img alt="US President Barack Obama (2L) waves to spectators as he leaves with US First Lady Michelle Obama (2R), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (L) and Indian President Pranab Mukherjee (R) after attending India's Republic Day parade on Rajpath in New Delhi on January 26, 2015." data-caption="&lt;strong&gt;File photo: &lt;/strong&gt;Barack Obama (2L) waves to spectators as he leaves with Michelle Obama (2R), Narendra Modi (L) and Pranab Mukherjee (R) after attending India's Republic Day parade on Rajpath in New Delhi on January 26, 2015. &lt;strong&gt;Credit: AFP&lt;/strong&gt;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c1ef7f96-b40f-4e11-93cd-384a34db0493" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_Del6389987_0.jpg" />
<p>These visits have shaped the India-US ties over the past seven decades and have reflected their changing priorities and challenges. Modi's visit in 2023 will be another landmark in this journey and will pave the way for a stronger and deeper partnership between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi will also interact with CEOs of leading American companies including FedEx, MasterCard and Adobe.<br />
It will follow the official state dinner on June 22 at the White House with President Joe Biden - a celebration billed as a milestone in relations between the two democracies.</p>

<p>Indian Americans have also made their mark in politics, with several holding high positions in federal, state, and local governments. The most prominent example is Vice President Kamala Harris, who is the first person of Indian origin to hold such a post. Other notable Indian Americans include Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah, Congressman Ami Bera, Senator Raja Krishnamoorthi, Governor Nikki Haley, and Mayor Ravi Bhalla, among others.</p>

<p>Indian Americans have also been influential in shaping public opinion and discourse on various issues. They have been active in media, academia, think tanks, civil society organisations, and advocacy groups. They have also been vocal supporters of India-US&nbsp;relations and have played a bridging role between the two countries.<br />
<br />
<strong>(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.)</strong><br />
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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.

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. This will be Modi's sixth overall visit to the US since taking over as PM in 2014. However, this visit is significant as he has been invited by President Joe Biden for his first state visit to the US. A state visit to the US is a coveted and unique honour, the US President accords to his closest friends and allies. This visit is poised to witness the forging of significant deals, fostering bonhomie between leaders, and shaping the course of global geopolitics. With a shared commitment to democratic values, the US and India are set to deepen their cooperation across various sectors, from trade to technology and from security to climate change. The visit is set to bolster economic ties and strengthen diplomatic relations. One of the key deals likely to be announced is the $1.8 billion deal for 18 Predator-B armed drones. These drones can long-range precision strikes and surveillance along borders and maritime areas. India and the US are also close to signing a military deal that would allow them to jointly develop fighter jet engines. Massachusetts-based aerospace manufacturing giant General Electric Co. (GE) will join hands with state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. to produce the engines for the Tejas light-combat aircraft. Watch this report: × On June 22, Modi will also address a joint session of the US Congress, becoming the sixth Indian Prime Minister to do so. While the Democrats and Republicans disagree on most of the issues, the two political rivals got together to send a bipartisan invite to Modi to address the joint meeting of Congress. Modi's visit comes at a time when India and the US are facing multiple challenges as well as opportunities in a rapidly changing world. The two countries have forged a close strategic partnership over the years, based on shared values and interests. They have cooperated on various global issues, such as combating terrorism, promoting democracy and human rights, advancing clean energy and fighting COVID-19. The visit will also bring into focus the growing people-to-people ties between the two countries, especially among the youth and diaspora. The US is home to over four million Indian Americans, who have made significant contributions to various sectors. Modi enjoys high popularity among them and has addressed several large gatherings of them during his previous visits. The two countries have had a long cultural and intellectual exchange history since the late 19th century. One of the earliest examples was Swami Vivekananda's visit to America in 1893. As a young monk, he introduced Hinduism to the US at the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. He delivered a landmark speech celebrating toleration and universal acceptance of all religions. Since then, many Indian leaders have visited the US and many American presidents have visited India. Some of these visits have been memorable for their impact on bilateral relations and global affairs. - India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's visit to Washington in 1949 marked the beginning of diplomatic ties between independent India and the US. -Civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. visited India in 1959 for a month-long tour. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent struggle for national independence, King said said 'Non-violence is the most potent weapon available to oppressed people in their struggle for justice and human dignity.' - Dwight Eisenhower's visit to New Delhi in 1959 was the first by a US president to India and boosted cooperation on agriculture and development. He also addressed the Indian parliament. - John F. Kennedy's meeting with Indira Gandhi in Washington in 1961 laid the foundation for a strategic partnership on defence and security. - Richard Nixon's visit to New Delhi in 1969 was marred by protests over his support for Pakistan during the Bangladesh conflict. - Indira Gandhi's visit to Washington in 1982 revived ties after a period of estrangement due to India's nuclear test in 1974. -In 1978 U.S. President Jimmy Carter visited India on a three-day official trip. He visited a Gurugram village, Daulatpur Nasirabad, which was renamed Carterpuri. - Bill Clinton's visit to India in 2000 was hailed as a watershed moment for transforming relations into a 'natural alliance'. - Atal Bihari Vajpayee's visit to Washington in 2000 declared that India and the US were 'natural allies' and signed a landmark civil nuclear deal. -In 2006 President George Bush visited India, where he and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh finalised the framework of the civil nuclear deal, boosting security and economic ties. -In 2009 U.S. President Barack Obama hosted the inaugural state visit of Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. A visit which highlighted the growing bonhomie between New Delhi & Washington. - A year later, Barack Obama's visit to India was historic as he became the first US president to attend the Republic Day parade as chief guest. These visits have shaped the India-US ties over the past seven decades and have reflected their changing priorities and challenges. Modi's visit in 2023 will be another landmark in this journey and will pave the way for a stronger and deeper partnership between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi will also interact with CEOs of leading American companies including FedEx, MasterCard and Adobe. It will follow the official state dinner on June 22 at the White House with President Joe Biden - a celebration billed as a milestone in relations between the two democracies. Indian Americans have also made their mark in politics, with several holding high positions in federal, state, and local governments. The most prominent example is Vice President Kamala Harris, who is the first person of Indian origin to hold such a post. Other notable Indian Americans include Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, USAID Administrator Rajiv Shah, Congressman Ami Bera, Senator Raja Krishnamoorthi, Governor Nikki Haley, and Mayor Ravi Bhalla, among others. Indian Americans have also been influential in shaping public opinion and discourse on various issues. They have been active in media, academia, think tanks, civil society organisations, and advocacy groups. They have also been vocal supporters of India-US relations and have played a bridging role between the two countries. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

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

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead a yoga session at UN headquarters for the first time in New York.</p>

<p>June 21 marks the International Day of Yoga, during which Modi will be landing in the city as part of his four-day visit to the United States.</p>

<p>“On the occasion of the 9th International Day of Yoga, the Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations cordially invites you to join a Yoga session led by H. E. Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi,” an advisory for the event said, according to PTI news agency.</p>

<p>It was PM Modi who first proposed from the UN General Assembly podium to mark International Yoga Day as an annual commemoration.</p>

<h2><strong>First time</strong></h2>

<p>This will be the first time that the Indian leader will lead the yoga session at the UN Headquarters in a historic commemoration of the day.</p>

<p>The one-hour session from&nbsp;8 am&nbsp;will begin at the expansive North Lawn in the UN Headquarters, where a bust of Mahatma Gandhi—a gift from India to the UN—was installed in December last year during the country's presidency of the UN Security Council.</p>

<h2><strong>VIP guests expected</strong></h2>

<p>The historic yoga session is expected to be attended by top UN officials, ambassadors, envoys, delegates from member states as well as prominent members of the global and diaspora community.</p>

<p>“I am looking forward to participating in the 9th International Day of Yoga celebrations @UN with Prime Minister @NarendraModi at the UNHQ North Lawn next week,” President of the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly Csaba Korosi said in a tweet Thursday.</p>

<p>The tweet accompanies a photograph of Korosi with PM Modi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&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:&nbsp;Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies</a></p>

<p>The first International Day of Yoga was commemorated in 2015 and has since then been marked with several sessions and events highlighting the benefits and universal appeal of Yoga at the UN, Times Square and iconic locations across the world.</p>

<h2><strong>Tight schedule</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Modi is visiting the US from June 21 to June 24 at the invitation of US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/indian-pm-modi-has-gone-to-us-almost-every-year-but-this-year-its-special-604728">Indian PM Modi has gone to US almost every year, but this year it’s special</a></p>

<p>They will host PM Modi at a state dinner on June 22. The visit also includes an address to the Joint Session of the Congress on June 22.</p>

<p>Modi will then address an invitation-only gathering of diaspora leaders from across the country at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington on June 23.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead a yoga session at UN headquarters for the first time in New York. June 21 marks the International Day of Yoga, during which Modi will be landing in the city as part of his four-day visit to the United States.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead a yoga session at UN headquarters for the first time in New York. June 21 marks the International Day of Yoga, during which Modi will be landing in the city as part of his four-day visit to the United States. “On the occasion of the 9th International Day of Yoga, the Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations cordially invites you to join a Yoga session led by H. E. Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi,” an advisory for the event said, according to PTI news agency. It was PM Modi who first proposed from the UN General Assembly podium to mark International Yoga Day as an annual commemoration. First time This will be the first time that the Indian leader will lead the yoga session at the UN Headquarters in a historic commemoration of the day. The one-hour session from 8 am will begin at the expansive North Lawn in the UN Headquarters, where a bust of Mahatma Gandhi—a gift from India to the UN—was installed in December last year during the country's presidency of the UN Security Council. VIP guests expected The historic yoga session is expected to be attended by top UN officials, ambassadors, envoys, delegates from member states as well as prominent members of the global and diaspora community. “I am looking forward to participating in the 9th International Day of Yoga celebrations @UN with Prime Minister @NarendraModi at the UNHQ North Lawn next week,” President of the 77th session of the United Nations General Assembly Csaba Korosi said in a tweet Thursday. The tweet accompanies a photograph of Korosi with PM Modi. Also read | Modi in US: Indian PM expected to meet CEOs of top 20 American companies The first International Day of Yoga was commemorated in 2015 and has since then been marked with several sessions and events highlighting the benefits and universal appeal of Yoga at the UN, Times Square and iconic locations across the world. Tight schedule Prime Minister Modi is visiting the US from June 21 to June 24 at the invitation of US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. Also read | Indian PM Modi has gone to US almost every year, but this year it’s special They will host PM Modi at a state dinner on June 22. The visit also includes an address to the Joint Session of the Congress on June 22. Modi will then address an invitation-only gathering of diaspora leaders from across the country at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington on June 23. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian PM Narendra Modi to lead yoga session for first time at UN headquarters

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Here are Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trips in numbers:</p>

<h2><strong>Countries the Indian PM has visited</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi's maiden foreign visit&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Expenses incurred during Narendra Modi's foreign visits</strong></h2>

<p>As disclosed on the website pmindia.gov.in, the foreign visits incurred significant expenses.</p>

<p>These five foreign visits&nbsp;recorded the highest&nbsp;expense&nbsp;(Between 15 June, 2014 and 15 November, 2019): &nbsp;</p>

<p>1. USA (21 September – 28 September, 2019): Rs 23,27,09,000<br />
2. Brazil (13 July – 17 July, 2014): Rs 20,35,48,000<br />
3. France, Germany &amp; Canada (9 April – 17 April, 2015): Rs 31,25,78,000<br />
4. Myanmar, Australia &amp; Fiji (11 Nov – 20 Nov, 2014): Rs 22,58,65,000<br />
5. Ireland and USA (23 Sept – 29 Sept, 2015): Rs 18,46,95,000</p>

<p>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).</p>

<h2><strong>Narendra Modi in US</strong></h2>

<p>To date, Narendra Modi has visited the United States six times in his capacity as the Prime Minister of India.</p>

<p>However, in spite of the frequent visits, the upcoming visit from June 21&nbsp;to June 24&nbsp;holds special importance.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>As per diplomatic protocol, a state visit is the highest-ranked visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi in US: Previous visits to America</strong></h2>

<p>In 2014, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the US, for what was categorised as a working visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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)."</p>

<p><img src="https://ine.org.pl/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Modi-ENG-1024x576.png" /></p>

<p><sup><em><strong>Image courtesy: The Institute of New Europe</strong></em></sup></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
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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

<p data-label="Package" data-qa-component="item-headline" dir="auto" title="Exclusive: US pushing India to seal big armed drone buy for Modi visit - sources">Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Washington, the Biden administration is pushing New Delhi to cut through its own red tape and advance a deal for dozens of U.S.-made armed drones, two people familiar with the matter said.</p>

<p>India has long expressed interest in buying large armed drones from the United States. But bureaucratic stumbling blocks have hampered a hoped-for deal for SeaGuardian drones that could be worth $2 billion to $3 billion for years.</p>

<p>US&nbsp;negotiators are counting on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's White House visit on June 22 to break the log jam.</p>

<p>Since the date for Modi's visit was fixed, the US&nbsp;State Department, Pentagon and White House have asked India to be able to "show" progress on the deal for as many as 30 armable MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones made by General Atomics, two sources said.</p>

<p>Modi and Biden are also expected to discuss co-production of munitions and ground vehicles, like armoured personnel carriers, while Modi is in Washington, the sources said.</p>

<p>Spokespeople for the White House, Department of State and the Pentagon declined to comment on the negotiations.</p>

<p>U.S. President Joe Biden has made deepening ties with India a cornerstone of his policy to counter China's growing influence, placing special attention this year on collaboration between the world's two largest democracies on advanced military technologies, despite their lack of a formal security alliance.</p>

<p>New Delhi, which often prizes its non-alignment in conflicts between great powers abroad, has frustrated Washington by maintaining some defence and economic ties with Russia after the invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>Breaking India's bureaucratic log jam on drones hinges on an internal meeting to generate an "Acceptance of Necessity" document, an Indian precursor to a formal "Letter of Request" which kicks off the foreign military sale process. As of Tuesday, the sources did not know if New Delhi had generated the necessary internal document.</p>

<p>"That's gonna be a decision that the government of India needs to make," said a senior Biden administration official. "We think it would be good for them to go through with the purchase of MQ-9s. But those decisions are sort of more in the hands of India than they are of us."</p>

<p>The topic was expected to be on the agenda as Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday to finalize preparations ahead of Modi's visit.</p>

<p>As of last week, India's defence ministry had still not made up its mind about the number of drones it wants to buy, according to a person familiar with the discussions. Earlier, the number was pegged at 30, but that was later revised to 24, and then further down to 18 last month. Sources cautioned that none of the numbers were final.</p>

<p>India is also seeking components of the equipment to be domestically manufactured, something that could complicate any deal.</p>

<p>The Quad grouping of countries - the United States, India, Australia and Japan - all operate, or have operated, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. Currently, India is leasing MQ-9Bs as part of an intelligence-gathering operation.</p>

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Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Washington, the Biden administration is pushing New Delhi to cut through its own red tape and advance a deal for dozens of U.

Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Washington, the Biden administration is pushing New Delhi to cut through its own red tape and advance a deal for dozens of U.S.-made armed drones, two people familiar with the matter said. India has long expressed interest in buying large armed drones from the United States. But bureaucratic stumbling blocks have hampered a hoped-for deal for SeaGuardian drones that could be worth $2 billion to $3 billion for years. US negotiators are counting on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's White House visit on June 22 to break the log jam. Since the date for Modi's visit was fixed, the US State Department, Pentagon and White House have asked India to be able to "show" progress on the deal for as many as 30 armable MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones made by General Atomics, two sources said. Modi and Biden are also expected to discuss co-production of munitions and ground vehicles, like armoured personnel carriers, while Modi is in Washington, the sources said. Spokespeople for the White House, Department of State and the Pentagon declined to comment on the negotiations. U.S. President Joe Biden has made deepening ties with India a cornerstone of his policy to counter China's growing influence, placing special attention this year on collaboration between the world's two largest democracies on advanced military technologies, despite their lack of a formal security alliance. New Delhi, which often prizes its non-alignment in conflicts between great powers abroad, has frustrated Washington by maintaining some defence and economic ties with Russia after the invasion of Ukraine. Breaking India's bureaucratic log jam on drones hinges on an internal meeting to generate an "Acceptance of Necessity" document, an Indian precursor to a formal "Letter of Request" which kicks off the foreign military sale process. As of Tuesday, the sources did not know if New Delhi had generated the necessary internal document. "That's gonna be a decision that the government of India needs to make," said a senior Biden administration official. "We think it would be good for them to go through with the purchase of MQ-9s. But those decisions are sort of more in the hands of India than they are of us." The topic was expected to be on the agenda as Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday to finalize preparations ahead of Modi's visit. As of last week, India's defence ministry had still not made up its mind about the number of drones it wants to buy, according to a person familiar with the discussions. Earlier, the number was pegged at 30, but that was later revised to 24, and then further down to 18 last month. Sources cautioned that none of the numbers were final. India is also seeking components of the equipment to be domestically manufactured, something that could complicate any deal. The Quad grouping of countries - the United States, India, Australia and Japan - all operate, or have operated, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. Currently, India is leasing MQ-9Bs as part of an intelligence-gathering operation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US pushing India to seal big armed drone buy for Modi visit: Report

<p>Calling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US as “historic”, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said the visit will solidify the “defining relationship’ of the 21st century.”</p>

<p>Blinken made these remarks at the annual India Ideas Summit of the US-India Business Council (USIBC) in Washington on Monday ahead of Modi’s visit.</p>

<p>&nbsp;“We’re here almost literally, on the eve of what we believe will be a historic state visit by Prime Minister Modi – one that will further solidify what President Biden has called a ‘defining relationship’ of the 21st century.”</p>

<p>He added that India-US ties are centred by economic linkages and that the two nations are working together to design future technologies and the rules regulating them.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | We see this (India-US) defining relationship as a unique connection between the world's oldest and largest democracies, with a special obligation now to demonstrate that our governments can deliver for &amp; empower all of our citizens: Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State <a href="https://t.co/u2QGavpgDW">pic.twitter.com/u2QGavpgDW</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1668409949100343296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>“At the heart of our strategic partnership is our economic ties. And under the leadership of President Biden and Prime Minister Modi – and private sector leaders like you – it is growing stronger by the day,” he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Robust trade</strong></h2>

<p>In his address, Blinken highlighted the robust trade relations between India and the US which has reached a record $191 billion, making Washington the largest trading partner for New Delhi.</p>

<p>“American companies have invested at least $54 billion in India – from manufacturing to telecommunications.”</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine takes 90 sq km of area from Russia, seven settlements taken over in last week | WION</strong></h2>

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<p>Similarly, Indian companies have also invested heavily in US with over $40 billion investment in IT, pharmaceuticals fired and more, and supporting 4,25,000 jobs from California to Georgia.</p>

<p>This February, Air India announced the historic purchase of more than 200 Boeing aircraft that will support an estimated one million-plus jobs across 44 states, the diplomat said.</p>

<p>“We see this defining relationship in our unique connection as the world’s oldest and largest democracies, with a special obligation to demonstrate that our governments can deliver for and empower all our citizens.”</p>

<h2><strong>Both committed to boost economic growth</strong></h2>

<p>With Biden’s $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Modi’s Rs 100 trillion infrastructure plan, the top US diplomat claimed that both countries are investing significantly in their own nations to boost economic growth and attract foreign capital.</p>

<p>“India has joined three pillars of our new Indo-Pacific Economic Framework – committing to build more resilient supply chains, seize clean energy opportunities and combat corruption,” he said.</p>

<p>“Together, we are helping shape the innovations of the future and the norms governing them – from artificial intelligence to quantum computing,” Blinken said and added that in January, USIBC co-hosted a roundtable where the two governments inaugurated a new Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies.</p>

<p>Blinken noted that the trajectory of the Indo-US partnership is unmistakable and filled with promise.</p>

<p>“It is being written in places like North Carolina, where our growing engagement is benefiting both our countries,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Calling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US as “historic”, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said the visit will solidify the “defining relationship’ of the 21st century.

Calling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US as “historic”, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has said the visit will solidify the “defining relationship’ of the 21st century.” Blinken made these remarks at the annual India Ideas Summit of the US-India Business Council (USIBC) in Washington on Monday ahead of Modi’s visit. “We’re here almost literally, on the eve of what we believe will be a historic state visit by Prime Minister Modi – one that will further solidify what President Biden has called a ‘defining relationship’ of the 21st century.” He added that India-US ties are centred by economic linkages and that the two nations are working together to design future technologies and the rules regulating them. #WATCH | We see this (India-US) defining relationship as a unique connection between the world's oldest and largest democracies, with a special obligation now to demonstrate that our governments can deliver for & empower all of our citizens: Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State pic.twitter.com/u2QGavpgDW — ANI (@ANI) June 13, 2023 × “At the heart of our strategic partnership is our economic ties. And under the leadership of President Biden and Prime Minister Modi – and private sector leaders like you – it is growing stronger by the day,” he said. Robust trade In his address, Blinken highlighted the robust trade relations between India and the US which has reached a record $191 billion, making Washington the largest trading partner for New Delhi. “American companies have invested at least $54 billion in India – from manufacturing to telecommunications.” Ukraine takes 90 sq km of area from Russia, seven settlements taken over in last week | WION Similarly, Indian companies have also invested heavily in US with over $40 billion investment in IT, pharmaceuticals fired and more, and supporting 4,25,000 jobs from California to Georgia. This February, Air India announced the historic purchase of more than 200 Boeing aircraft that will support an estimated one million-plus jobs across 44 states, the diplomat said. “We see this defining relationship in our unique connection as the world’s oldest and largest democracies, with a special obligation to demonstrate that our governments can deliver for and empower all our citizens.” Both committed to boost economic growth With Biden’s $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Modi’s Rs 100 trillion infrastructure plan, the top US diplomat claimed that both countries are investing significantly in their own nations to boost economic growth and attract foreign capital. “India has joined three pillars of our new Indo-Pacific Economic Framework – committing to build more resilient supply chains, seize clean energy opportunities and combat corruption,” he said. “Together, we are helping shape the innovations of the future and the norms governing them – from artificial intelligence to quantum computing,” Blinken said and added that in January, USIBC co-hosted a roundtable where the two governments inaugurated a new Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies. Blinken noted that the trajectory of the Indo-US partnership is unmistakable and filled with promise. “It is being written in places like North Carolina, where our growing engagement is benefiting both our countries,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi's ‘historic visit’ will solidify India-US relationship, says Antony Blinken

<p>United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Tuesday (June 13) met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Sullivan's visit came ahead of PM Modi's upcoming US visit.</p>

<p>"Reviewed progress under India-US Initiative on Critical &amp; Emerging Technologies (iCET) and other issues of bilateral cooperation. Look forward to meeting US President Joe Biden during my upcoming State Visit to the US,"&nbsp;tweeted&nbsp;PM&nbsp;Modi soon after meeting Sullivan.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Glad to receive US National Security Advisor <a href="https://twitter.com/JakeSullivan46?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JakeSullivan46</a>. Reviewed progress under India-US Initiative on Critical &amp; Emerging Technologies (iCET) and other issues of bilateral cooperation. Look forward to meeting <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> during my upcoming State Visit to the US. <a href="https://t.co/jqG77WgMIE">pic.twitter.com/jqG77WgMIE</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1668627731704352771?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Before meeting PM Modi, Sullivan met India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Both officials unveiled an ambitious roadmap for Indo-US collaboration in seven specific high-technology areas. These would include semiconductors, next-generation telecommunication, defence and more.</p>

<p>This roadmap was announced at the second Track-1.5 dialogue on Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). The event was organised by the industry chamber CII.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US NSA Jake Sullivan meets Indian counterpart Ajit Doval in New Delhi</strong></p>

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<p>"Both our nations are fundamentally on the trajectory of growth and strength," said Sullivan during his speech at the event.</p>

<p>"Together, we have deep wells of talents, capital, innovations and expertise and these are going to be put to good use," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-nsa-in-india-to-hammer-out-bilateral-deals-ahead-of-pm-modis-state-visit-603727">US NSA in India to hammer out bilateral deals ahead of PM Modi's state visit</a></strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the Track 1.5 dialogue, Doval and Sullivan held restricted talks. They covered a number of bilateral and regional issues.</p>

<p>Sullivan arrived in India on Tuesday for a two-day visit. He has held talks with PM Modi, NSA Doval, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and other senior Indian officials ahead of PM Narendra Modi's visit to Washington.</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden and PM Narendra Modi made a big move in May last year when they announced the elevation of the US-India iCET and plans for expansion in the strategic technology partnership between India and the US. Both leaders also leaned in for better defence industrial cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The iCET is expected to forge closer linkages between the government, academia and industry of the two countries in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, 5G and 6G, biotech, space and semiconductors.</p>

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United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Tuesday (June 13) met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Sullivan's visit came ahead of PM Modi's upcoming US visit.

United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Tuesday (June 13) met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Sullivan's visit came ahead of PM Modi's upcoming US visit. "Reviewed progress under India-US Initiative on Critical & Emerging Technologies (iCET) and other issues of bilateral cooperation. Look forward to meeting US President Joe Biden during my upcoming State Visit to the US," tweeted PM Modi soon after meeting Sullivan. Glad to receive US National Security Advisor @JakeSullivan46. Reviewed progress under India-US Initiative on Critical & Emerging Technologies (iCET) and other issues of bilateral cooperation. Look forward to meeting @POTUS @JoeBiden during my upcoming State Visit to the US. pic.twitter.com/jqG77WgMIE — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 13, 2023 × Before meeting PM Modi, Sullivan met India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Both officials unveiled an ambitious roadmap for Indo-US collaboration in seven specific high-technology areas. These would include semiconductors, next-generation telecommunication, defence and more. This roadmap was announced at the second Track-1.5 dialogue on Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). The event was organised by the industry chamber CII. Watch | US NSA Jake Sullivan meets Indian counterpart Ajit Doval in New Delhi × "Both our nations are fundamentally on the trajectory of growth and strength," said Sullivan during his speech at the event. "Together, we have deep wells of talents, capital, innovations and expertise and these are going to be put to good use," he added. Also Read | US NSA in India to hammer out bilateral deals ahead of PM Modi's state visit Ahead of the Track 1.5 dialogue, Doval and Sullivan held restricted talks. They covered a number of bilateral and regional issues. Sullivan arrived in India on Tuesday for a two-day visit. He has held talks with PM Modi, NSA Doval, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and other senior Indian officials ahead of PM Narendra Modi's visit to Washington. US President Joe Biden and PM Narendra Modi made a big move in May last year when they announced the elevation of the US-India iCET and plans for expansion in the strategic technology partnership between India and the US. Both leaders also leaned in for better defence industrial cooperation between the two countries. The iCET is expected to forge closer linkages between the government, academia and industry of the two countries in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, 5G and 6G, biotech, space and semiconductors. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US NSA Jake Sullivan meets PM Narendra Modi ahead of latter's visit to US

<p>A special thali has been launched by a New Jersey-based restaurant which is dedicated to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his scheduled visit to the United States, reported ANI.<br />
<br />
Shripad Kulkarni, who is the owner of the restaurant and is of Indian origin, stated that they have curated the thali, especially on the demands of the Indian community, who have been living there.</p>

<h2><strong>Colourful thali filled with mouth-watering dishes</strong></h2>

<p>In the video, posted by news agency ANI, Kulkarni is seen sharing details of the "Modi Ji" thali. The colourful thali, which has been curated included mouth-watering dishes from across India, including items like - Khichdi, rasgulla, sarson ka saag, Kashmiri dum aloo, idli, dhokla, chaach, papad.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | A New Jersey-based restaurant launches 'Modi Ji' Thali for PM Narendra Modi's upcoming State Visit to the US. Restaurant owner Shripad Kulkarni gives details on the Thali. <a href="https://t.co/XpOEtx9EDg">pic.twitter.com/XpOEtx9EDg</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1667913912736681984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The restaurant owner further stated that the special thali has already been tried by many people. Various customers, who are also seen making an appearance in the video, stated that they were in love with the food served and added that the thali has been extremely popular amongst New Jersey's Indian community. The price of the thali was not mentioned in the video.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-modis-us-visit-american-lawmakers-urge-govt-to-address-visa-wait-time-issue-in-india-on-priority-601974">Ahead of Modi's US visit, American lawmakers urge govt to address visa wait time issue in India on priority</a></p>

<p>The thali has also paid tribute to 2023 being declared by the United Nations as the International Year of Millets after the Indian government's recommendation, by adding dishes to the thali which are prepared using millets.<br />
<br />
The restaurant owner added that they plan to launch another special thali which will be dedicated to India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar soon.<br />
<br />
"We plan to launch this thali soon. I'm very positive that it's going to gain popularity. Once this does well I also plan to launch a Dr Jaishankar Thali, because he too has that rockstar appeal amongst the Indian American community," the owner stated.<br />
<br />
This is not the first time that a special culinary offering has been created dedicated to Indian PM Modi. Last year, a 'thali' was launched by a Delhi-based restaurant dedicated to the prime minister on his birthday. Ardor 2.1 restaurant, which is situated in Connaught Place, came up with a big-sized thali which included 56 items with the customers having the choice of going for veg and non-veg food.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: PM Modi’s state visit to US: What should you expect?</strong></p>

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<p>Prime Minister Modi will be visiting the US at the invitation of US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden from June 21-24.<br />
<br />
During his four-day visit, the US president and the First Lady will host the Indian prime minister for a state dinner on June 22. Meanwhile, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will reach New Delhi on June 13 for his two-day visit during which he will discuss various issues, a week ahead of the prime minister's US visit.</p>

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A special thali has been launched by a New Jersey-based restaurant which is dedicated to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his scheduled visit to the United States, reported ANI.

A special thali has been launched by a New Jersey-based restaurant which is dedicated to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of his scheduled visit to the United States, reported ANI. Shripad Kulkarni, who is the owner of the restaurant and is of Indian origin, stated that they have curated the thali, especially on the demands of the Indian community, who have been living there. Colourful thali filled with mouth-watering dishes In the video, posted by news agency ANI, Kulkarni is seen sharing details of the "Modi Ji" thali. The colourful thali, which has been curated included mouth-watering dishes from across India, including items like - Khichdi, rasgulla, sarson ka saag, Kashmiri dum aloo, idli, dhokla, chaach, papad. #WATCH | A New Jersey-based restaurant launches 'Modi Ji' Thali for PM Narendra Modi's upcoming State Visit to the US. Restaurant owner Shripad Kulkarni gives details on the Thali. pic.twitter.com/XpOEtx9EDg — ANI (@ANI) June 11, 2023 × The restaurant owner further stated that the special thali has already been tried by many people. Various customers, who are also seen making an appearance in the video, stated that they were in love with the food served and added that the thali has been extremely popular amongst New Jersey's Indian community. The price of the thali was not mentioned in the video. ALSO READ | Ahead of Modi's US visit, American lawmakers urge govt to address visa wait time issue in India on priority The thali has also paid tribute to 2023 being declared by the United Nations as the International Year of Millets after the Indian government's recommendation, by adding dishes to the thali which are prepared using millets. The restaurant owner added that they plan to launch another special thali which will be dedicated to India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar soon. "We plan to launch this thali soon. I'm very positive that it's going to gain popularity. Once this does well I also plan to launch a Dr Jaishankar Thali, because he too has that rockstar appeal amongst the Indian American community," the owner stated. This is not the first time that a special culinary offering has been created dedicated to Indian PM Modi. Last year, a 'thali' was launched by a Delhi-based restaurant dedicated to the prime minister on his birthday. Ardor 2.1 restaurant, which is situated in Connaught Place, came up with a big-sized thali which included 56 items with the customers having the choice of going for veg and non-veg food. WATCH | Gravitas Plus: PM Modi’s state visit to US: What should you expect? Prime Minister Modi will be visiting the US at the invitation of US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden from June 21-24. During his four-day visit, the US president and the First Lady will host the Indian prime minister for a state dinner on June 22. Meanwhile, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will reach New Delhi on June 13 for his two-day visit during which he will discuss various issues, a week ahead of the prime minister's US visit. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch | Restaurant launches 'Modi Ji' thali in New Jersey ahead of PM's US visit

<p>Egypt has said India is providing it with a credit line of unspecified value, in the latest moment of bilateral support from New Delhi for Cairo's difficult economic landscape.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Egypt's Supply Minister Ai El-Mosilhy informed on Monday about India's latest gesture of elevated bilateral outreach towards the North African nation.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-visit-egypt-this-month-as-delhi-cairo-firm-up-ties-601433">PM Modi to visit Egypt this month as Delhi and Cairo firm up ties</a></strong></p>

<p>Egypt is one of those nations that have faced significant economic ramifications of the Russia-Ukraine war. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's administration is also financially committed towards some of the country's most ambitious development projects, such as developing a new capital near existing Cairo and a web of highways for enhanced connectivity.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India-Egypt ties: What this Credit Line will be used for?</strong></h2>

<p>Credit lines are typically used to import key commodities, mostly edible items and related raw materials. India has provided similar credit lines to rescue the troubled economy of its southern neighbour Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For Egypt, the Indian move could ease pressures on the economy, amid signs of progress in Egypt’s plan to sell state assets and expectations that the authorities will hold off a devaluation of the currency until at least September.</p>

<p>India and Egypt have built closer ties in recent years, with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi becoming a special guest at India’s Republic Day parade in January.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-remains-indias-indispensable-afro-arab-ally-556082">President El-Sisi visits as R-Day chief guest, Egypt remains Delhi’s indispensable Afro-Arab ally</a></strong></p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will next visit Egypt later in June.</p>

<h2><strong>Egyptian economy gets support from allies and friends</strong></h2>

<p>Egypt has agreed on a $3 billion deal with the International Monetary Fund.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Egypt to import a million tons of Indian wheat amid shortage due to Russia-Ukraine war</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, its Gulf Arab allies, specifically Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Kuwait have deposited support of up to $13 billion in 2022 alone to fix a damaging fiscal policy that used foreign reserves as a means of protecting an overvalued currency.</p>

<h2><strong>India-Egypt ties: Why are they important?</strong></h2>

<p>Egypt’s dual identity as an Afro-Arab nation makes Cairo an indispensable ally of India in West Asia, Africa, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Red Sea, according to Mohammed Soliman, a strategist who conceptualised the "Indo-Abrahamic" framework, WION’s Heena Sharma <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/egypt-remains-indias-indispensable-afro-arab-ally-556082">reported</a> on January 26, 2023.</p>

<p>On the trade prospects, Soliman had said, "Egypt is very open to Indian investment, given the historical relations between the two countries and Egypt’s appreciation of India’s global role."</p>

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Egypt has said India is providing it with a credit line of unspecified value, in the latest moment of bilateral support from New Delhi for Cairo's difficult economic landscape.

Egypt has said India is providing it with a credit line of unspecified value, in the latest moment of bilateral support from New Delhi for Cairo's difficult economic landscape. Egypt's Supply Minister Ai El-Mosilhy informed on Monday about India's latest gesture of elevated bilateral outreach towards the North African nation. Also read | PM Modi to visit Egypt this month as Delhi and Cairo firm up ties Egypt is one of those nations that have faced significant economic ramifications of the Russia-Ukraine war. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's administration is also financially committed towards some of the country's most ambitious development projects, such as developing a new capital near existing Cairo and a web of highways for enhanced connectivity. India-Egypt ties: What this Credit Line will be used for? Credit lines are typically used to import key commodities, mostly edible items and related raw materials. India has provided similar credit lines to rescue the troubled economy of its southern neighbour Sri Lanka. For Egypt, the Indian move could ease pressures on the economy, amid signs of progress in Egypt’s plan to sell state assets and expectations that the authorities will hold off a devaluation of the currency until at least September. India and Egypt have built closer ties in recent years, with Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi becoming a special guest at India’s Republic Day parade in January. Also read | President El-Sisi visits as R-Day chief guest, Egypt remains Delhi’s indispensable Afro-Arab ally Prime Minister Narendra Modi will next visit Egypt later in June. Egyptian economy gets support from allies and friends Egypt has agreed on a $3 billion deal with the International Monetary Fund. Also watch | Egypt to import a million tons of Indian wheat amid shortage due to Russia-Ukraine war × Meanwhile, its Gulf Arab allies, specifically Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Kuwait have deposited support of up to $13 billion in 2022 alone to fix a damaging fiscal policy that used foreign reserves as a means of protecting an overvalued currency. India-Egypt ties: Why are they important? Egypt’s dual identity as an Afro-Arab nation makes Cairo an indispensable ally of India in West Asia, Africa, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Red Sea, according to Mohammed Soliman, a strategist who conceptualised the "Indo-Abrahamic" framework, WION’s Heena Sharma reported on January 26, 2023. On the trade prospects, Soliman had said, "Egypt is very open to Indian investment, given the historical relations between the two countries and Egypt’s appreciation of India’s global role." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's credit line to boost Egypt's race to economic stability

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to travel to Egypt later this month, marking his first trip to the country since assuming office in 2014. The&nbsp;Cairo trip will be an extension of&nbsp;PM Modi's US tour. The visit comes as India and Egypt seek to strengthen their bilateral ties, with a particular focus on defence cooperation and education.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visited India in January of this year, where he was the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations. This upcoming visit by PM Modi can be seen as a reciprocal gesture, further deepening the relationship between the two nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leaders have engaged on multiple fronts, and defence collaboration has taken centre stage. Egypt has expressed interest in acquiring various defence equipment from India, including the LCA Tejas aircraft, the Akash missile system, and the DRDO's Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW). In response, India has been open to sharing technology and exploring possibilities for co-production. The growing defence cooperation was evident when Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Egypt last year, resulting in a pact on cooperation in the defence sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Education is another key area of focus for both countries. Egypt has expressed a desire to establish an Indian higher education centre, similar to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). With its large economy and large population, Egypt is viewed as a natural partner for India. The country's strategic location with free trade agreements in place can potentially serve as a gateway for Indian investors seeking opportunities in West Asia and Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Egypt's reputation as a moderate and influential voice in the Islamic world has further bolstered the relationship between the two nations. Egypt has consistently condemned terrorism and has not supported Pakistani policies within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to travel to Egypt later this month, marking his first trip to the country since assuming office in 2014. The Cairo trip will be an extension of PM Modi's US tour.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to travel to Egypt later this month, marking his first trip to the country since assuming office in 2014. The Cairo trip will be an extension of PM Modi's US tour. The visit comes as India and Egypt seek to strengthen their bilateral ties, with a particular focus on defence cooperation and education. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi visited India in January of this year, where he was the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations. This upcoming visit by PM Modi can be seen as a reciprocal gesture, further deepening the relationship between the two nations. The two leaders have engaged on multiple fronts, and defence collaboration has taken centre stage. Egypt has expressed interest in acquiring various defence equipment from India, including the LCA Tejas aircraft, the Akash missile system, and the DRDO's Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW). In response, India has been open to sharing technology and exploring possibilities for co-production. The growing defence cooperation was evident when Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Egypt last year, resulting in a pact on cooperation in the defence sector. Education is another key area of focus for both countries. Egypt has expressed a desire to establish an Indian higher education centre, similar to the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). With its large economy and large population, Egypt is viewed as a natural partner for India. The country's strategic location with free trade agreements in place can potentially serve as a gateway for Indian investors seeking opportunities in West Asia and Africa. Egypt's reputation as a moderate and influential voice in the Islamic world has further bolstered the relationship between the two nations. Egypt has consistently condemned terrorism and has not supported Pakistani policies within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. 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.

PM Modi to visit Egypt this month as Delhi and Cairo firm up ties

<p>Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official visit to the US, the White House on Monday dismissed concerns about the health of the Indian democracy and said that it is in fact "vibrant" and that anybody who happens to go to New Delhi can witness that.</p>

<h2><strong>US and India's 'vibrant' democracy</strong></h2>

<p>Speaking at a press conference, John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, stated: "India is a vibrant democracy. Anybody that, you know, happens to go to New Delhi can see that for themselves. And certainly, I would expect that the strength and health of democratic institutions will be part of the discussion."</p>

<p>As per PTI, he was responding to a question on the health of Indian democracy under Prime Minister Modi.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-us-intelligence-officer-turns-whistleblower-reveals-american-govt-has-ufos-alien-vehicles-601082">Explained: US intelligence officer turns whistleblower, reveals American govt has UFOs, alien vehicles</a></strong></p>

<p>"And, look, we never shy away. And you can do that with friends; you're supposed to do that with friends. You never shy away from expressing concerns that we might have with anyone around the world," said Kirby.</p>

<p>"But this (State) visit is really about advancing what is now and what we hope will be a deeper, stronger partnership and friendship going forward," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Kirby on Modi's upcoming visit</strong></h2>

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a state visit to America later this month. His June 22 visit, as per the White House, will boost the US and India's "shared commitment to a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific."</p>

<p>Kirby said Modi's visit is about advancing "what is now and what we hope will be a deeper, stronger partnership and friendship going forward".</p>

<p>During the visit, Indian PM Modi will be hosted by US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at a state dinner at the White House.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinken-says-us-wont-let-iran-get-nuclear-weapons-600982">US won't allow Iran get nuclear weapons, says Secretary of State Antony Blinken</a></strong></p>

<p>The reason behind this, as per Kirby, is that Biden wants to meet his Indian counterpart to advance and deepen bilateral partnership and friendship.</p>

<p>"There are innumerable reasons why India certainly matters not just bilaterally between the two of our nations, but multilaterally on very many levels. And the President is looking forward very much to having Prime Minister Modi here to talk about all those issues and to advance and deepen that partnership and that friendship," Kirby said.</p>

<p>Modi has also been invited by the US Congress to address a joint meeting of the House of Representatives and Senate.</p>

<p>Reportedly, the theme of his address will be focused on the Indian PM's vision for India's future and the global challenges faced by India and the United States.</p>

<p>"India is a strong partner on very, very many levels with the United States. You saw that, in Shangri-La, Secretary Austin (Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin) announced some additional defence cooperation now that we're going to pursue with India. Of course, there's an awful lot of economic trade between our two countries. India is a member of the Pacific Quad and a key friend and partner with respect to Indo-Pacific security," added Kirby.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official visit to the US, the White House on Monday dismissed concerns about the health of the Indian democracy and said that it is in fact "vibrant" and that anybody who happens to go to New Delhi can witness that.

Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's official visit to the US, the White House on Monday dismissed concerns about the health of the Indian democracy and said that it is in fact "vibrant" and that anybody who happens to go to New Delhi can witness that. US and India's 'vibrant' democracy Speaking at a press conference, John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, stated: "India is a vibrant democracy. Anybody that, you know, happens to go to New Delhi can see that for themselves. And certainly, I would expect that the strength and health of democratic institutions will be part of the discussion." As per PTI, he was responding to a question on the health of Indian democracy under Prime Minister Modi. Also read | Explained: US intelligence officer turns whistleblower, reveals American govt has UFOs, alien vehicles "And, look, we never shy away. And you can do that with friends; you're supposed to do that with friends. You never shy away from expressing concerns that we might have with anyone around the world," said Kirby. "But this (State) visit is really about advancing what is now and what we hope will be a deeper, stronger partnership and friendship going forward," he added. Kirby on Modi's upcoming visit Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a state visit to America later this month. His June 22 visit, as per the White House, will boost the US and India's "shared commitment to a free, open, prosperous and secure Indo-Pacific." Kirby said Modi's visit is about advancing "what is now and what we hope will be a deeper, stronger partnership and friendship going forward". During the visit, Indian PM Modi will be hosted by US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden at a state dinner at the White House. Also read | US won't allow Iran get nuclear weapons, says Secretary of State Antony Blinken The reason behind this, as per Kirby, is that Biden wants to meet his Indian counterpart to advance and deepen bilateral partnership and friendship. "There are innumerable reasons why India certainly matters not just bilaterally between the two of our nations, but multilaterally on very many levels. And the President is looking forward very much to having Prime Minister Modi here to talk about all those issues and to advance and deepen that partnership and that friendship," Kirby said. Modi has also been invited by the US Congress to address a joint meeting of the House of Representatives and Senate. Reportedly, the theme of his address will be focused on the Indian PM's vision for India's future and the global challenges faced by India and the United States. "India is a strong partner on very, very many levels with the United States. You saw that, in Shangri-La, Secretary Austin (Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin) announced some additional defence cooperation now that we're going to pursue with India. Of course, there's an awful lot of economic trade between our two countries. India is a member of the Pacific Quad and a key friend and partner with respect to Indo-Pacific security," added Kirby. (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.

Ahead of Modi's US trip, White House says India a strong partner on many levels

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a joint session of the US Congress on June 22 during his official state visit to the country.&nbsp;The news was announced with an invitation letter addressed to PM Modi and signed by top congressional leaders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The letter dated June 1 read, "On behalf of the bipartisan leadership of the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate, it is our honour to invite you (Prime Minister Modi) to address a joint meeting of Congress on Thursday, June 22."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement was signed by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi's address will revolve around his mission and vision for India's future and also the global challenges faced by both nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi is scheduled to travel to the United States for an official state visit from June 21 to 24 and will be hosted by US President Joe Biden at the White House, including a state dinner.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It is my honor to invite <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to address a Joint Meeting of Congress on Thursday, June 22nd.<br />
<br />
This will be an opportunity to celebrate the enduring friendship between the United States and India and speak to the global challenges our countries both face. <a href="https://t.co/gu68UjJltG">pic.twitter.com/gu68UjJltG</a></p>
— Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpeakerMcCarthy/status/1664630165802983427?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>McCarthy said in a tweet, "It is my honor to invite @PMOIndia @narendramodi to address a Joint Meeting of Congress on Thursday, June 22nd."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This will be an opportunity to celebrate the enduring friendship between the United States and India and speak to the global challenges our countries both face," the tweet added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the invitation letter, McCarthy reminisced PM Modi's last address to the US Congress seven years ago, which according to the house speaker "left a lasting impact".&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a joint session of the US Congress on June 22 during his official state visit to the country. The news was announced with an invitation letter addressed to PM Modi and signed by top congressional leaders.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a joint session of the US Congress on June 22 during his official state visit to the country. The news was announced with an invitation letter addressed to PM Modi and signed by top congressional leaders. The letter dated June 1 read, "On behalf of the bipartisan leadership of the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate, it is our honour to invite you (Prime Minister Modi) to address a joint meeting of Congress on Thursday, June 22." The statement was signed by House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries. PM Modi's address will revolve around his mission and vision for India's future and also the global challenges faced by both nations. PM Modi is scheduled to travel to the United States for an official state visit from June 21 to 24 and will be hosted by US President Joe Biden at the White House, including a state dinner. It is my honor to invite @PMOIndia@narendramodi to address a Joint Meeting of Congress on Thursday, June 22nd. This will be an opportunity to celebrate the enduring friendship between the United States and India and speak to the global challenges our countries both face. pic.twitter.com/gu68UjJltG — Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) June 2, 2023 × McCarthy said in a tweet, "It is my honor to invite @PMOIndia @narendramodi to address a Joint Meeting of Congress on Thursday, June 22nd." "This will be an opportunity to celebrate the enduring friendship between the United States and India and speak to the global challenges our countries both face," the tweet added. In the invitation letter, McCarthy reminisced PM Modi's last address to the US Congress seven years ago, which according to the house speaker "left a lasting impact". (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.

Indian PM Narendra Modi to address joint session of US Congress during state visit

<p>Suspended Indian lawmaker and top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's stance on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking during his ongoing US tour, the beleaguered dynast of the Indian opposition party said that he would have responded to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine quite similarly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has called for the cessation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi openly telling Russian President Vladimir Putin that this "is not an era of war". At the same time, unlike the West and countries in the Indo-Pacific, New Delhi has avoided an open and explicit deploring of the Russian actions in Ukraine.</p>

<p>"We have a relationship with Russia. We have had a relationship with Russia. We have certain dependencies on them," Rahul Gandhi said at Washington's National Press Club on June 1. "So I would have a very similar stance as the government of India. At the end of the day, we have to also look out for our interests."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rahul-gandhi-takes-jibe-at-pm-modi-says-he-can-even-explain-god-how-universe-works-598632">Ghost of Sikh riots haunts Rahul Gandhi's California visit, leader gets heckled by Khalistanis</a></strong></p>

<p>In March, India was described by the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov as the only country with which Moscow shares a "special and privileged strategic partnership", a relationship cultivated over decades when the persons from Rahul Gandhi's family occupied the Prime Minister's Office in New Delhi.</p>

<p>As the world's largest arms importer, India depends on Russia for nearly half its military supplies, and has bought fighter jets, tanks, nuclear submarines and an aircraft carrier over the decades.</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi also stressed that the relations between India and the United States were important. "It’s important to have a defence relationship. But I think we need to also consider other areas (of cooperation)," he said.</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi also said that there is a "hidden undercurrent" across India which will "surprise" the world in terms of the upcoming national elections in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani</strong></p>

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<p>While referring to the current status of opposition unity, Rahul said: "The opposition is pretty well united, and it’s getting more and&nbsp;more united."</p>

<p>"We are having conversations with all the Opposition (parties). I think quite a lot of good work is happening there," he said.</p>

<p>"It’s a complicated discussion because there are spaces where we are competing with the Opposition. So a bit of give and take is required. But I am confident that it (a grand Opposition alliance against the BJP at the Centre) will happen."</p>

<p>The former Congress president expressed confidence that his party's electoral fortunes would rise in the immediate future.</p>

<p>"I think the Congress party will do very well in the next two years. I think it will," the former Member of Parliament said.</p>

<p>"Wait and watch the next three or four state elections... which is a better indicator of what is going to happen," he said, while referring to the state elections in a number of states scheduled for later this year.</p>

<p>Rahul Gandhi is on a six-day visit to the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After two days in California's Bay Area, he is currently in Washington DC to engage with think tank communities and the press in the US capital on Thursday.</p>

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Suspended Indian lawmaker and top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's stance on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking during his ongoing US tour, the beleaguered dynast of the Indian opposition party said that he would have responded to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine quite similarly.

Suspended Indian lawmaker and top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's stance on the ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking during his ongoing US tour, the beleaguered dynast of the Indian opposition party said that he would have responded to the ongoing crisis in Ukraine quite similarly. India has called for the cessation of hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, with India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi openly telling Russian President Vladimir Putin that this "is not an era of war". At the same time, unlike the West and countries in the Indo-Pacific, New Delhi has avoided an open and explicit deploring of the Russian actions in Ukraine. "We have a relationship with Russia. We have had a relationship with Russia. We have certain dependencies on them," Rahul Gandhi said at Washington's National Press Club on June 1. "So I would have a very similar stance as the government of India. At the end of the day, we have to also look out for our interests." Also read | Ghost of Sikh riots haunts Rahul Gandhi's California visit, leader gets heckled by Khalistanis In March, India was described by the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov as the only country with which Moscow shares a "special and privileged strategic partnership", a relationship cultivated over decades when the persons from Rahul Gandhi's family occupied the Prime Minister's Office in New Delhi. As the world's largest arms importer, India depends on Russia for nearly half its military supplies, and has bought fighter jets, tanks, nuclear submarines and an aircraft carrier over the decades. Rahul Gandhi also stressed that the relations between India and the United States were important. "It’s important to have a defence relationship. But I think we need to also consider other areas (of cooperation)," he said. Rahul Gandhi also said that there is a "hidden undercurrent" across India which will "surprise" the world in terms of the upcoming national elections in 2024. Also watch | Rahul Gandhi: Will continue to raise questions over tycoon Adani × While referring to the current status of opposition unity, Rahul said: "The opposition is pretty well united, and it’s getting more and more united." "We are having conversations with all the Opposition (parties). I think quite a lot of good work is happening there," he said. "It’s a complicated discussion because there are spaces where we are competing with the Opposition. So a bit of give and take is required. But I am confident that it (a grand Opposition alliance against the BJP at the Centre) will happen." The former Congress president expressed confidence that his party's electoral fortunes would rise in the immediate future. "I think the Congress party will do very well in the next two years. I think it will," the former Member of Parliament said. "Wait and watch the next three or four state elections... which is a better indicator of what is going to happen," he said, while referring to the state elections in a number of states scheduled for later this year. Rahul Gandhi is on a six-day visit to the United States. After two days in California's Bay Area, he is currently in Washington DC to engage with think tank communities and the press in the US capital on Thursday. 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.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi backs Modi government's stance on Russia-Ukraine war

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Imran Khan's arrest&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Khan, who is Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief, is currently facing a myriad of issues. Nationwide protests were triggered by his arrest on May 9 for suspected graft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan was already facing an economic crisis and is now drowning deep in political turmoil as Khan's party witnesses&nbsp;a countrywide crackdown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After Khan's arrest, his party workers vandalised over 20 military installations and government buildings, including the Lahore Corps Commander House, Mianwali airbase and the ISI building in Faisalabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi was also attacked by the mob for the first time. Khan was later released on bail. Law enforcement agencies have arrested over 10,000 workers of Khan's party from across Pakistan, with 4,000 of them from Punjab province.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Khan denies any wrongdoing and labels the arrest as politically motivated. Recently, dozens of top and mid-tier leaders in the PTI have been arrested, alongside hundreds of Khan supporters. Many have even quit the party after being released, while other leaders remain on the run to avoid arrest.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Khan is a 'bigger threat'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan's defence minister said, "Imran Khan is more dangerous for Pakistan than Narendra Modi and people are not able to see this." Asif added, "He is present among us. Who is more dangerous? One who is among us or the one standing in front of you on the other side?"&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asif said that the violent protests across Pakistan were a "mutiny". He said, "This enemy is actually a bigger threat to our security and May 9 is proof of that. It was rebellion. It was a mutiny."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Unbelievable. Defense Minister of Pakistan ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/KhawajaMAsif?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KhawajaMAsif</a>⁩ declared ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a>⁩ a bigger threat to the security of Pakistan than Indian Prime Minsiter ⁦<a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>⁩. <a href="https://t.co/XzEnlhYRc6">pic.twitter.com/XzEnlhYRc6</a></p>
— Hamid Mir حامد میر (@HamidMirPAK) <a href="https://twitter.com/HamidMirPAK/status/1664300549276323842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Thursday,&nbsp;PTI party president Chaudhry Pervez Elahi was arrested outside his residence. Elahi is&nbsp;a close aide to the former prime minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet, the party tweeted, "Shameful how the regime doesn't stop their fascism. The inflation has skyrocketed to 38%, and their response is arresting former CM Punjab Parvez Elahi. Absolutely ridiculous!" PTI also shared a video in which the 77-year-old leader was seen being dragged by security personnel from his residence.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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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. 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)." Imran Khan's arrest Khan, who is Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief, is currently facing a myriad of issues. Nationwide protests were triggered by his arrest on May 9 for suspected graft. Pakistan was already facing an economic crisis and is now drowning deep in political turmoil as Khan's party witnesses a countrywide crackdown. After Khan's arrest, his party workers vandalised over 20 military installations and government buildings, including the Lahore Corps Commander House, Mianwali airbase and the ISI building in Faisalabad. The Army headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi was also attacked by the mob for the first time. Khan was later released on bail. Law enforcement agencies have arrested over 10,000 workers of Khan's party from across Pakistan, with 4,000 of them from Punjab province. Meanwhile, Khan denies any wrongdoing and labels the arrest as politically motivated. Recently, dozens of top and mid-tier leaders in the PTI have been arrested, alongside hundreds of Khan supporters. Many have even quit the party after being released, while other leaders remain on the run to avoid arrest. Khan is a 'bigger threat' Pakistan's defence minister said, "Imran Khan is more dangerous for Pakistan than Narendra Modi and people are not able to see this." Asif added, "He is present among us. Who is more dangerous? One who is among us or the one standing in front of you on the other side?" Asif said that the violent protests across Pakistan were a "mutiny". He said, "This enemy is actually a bigger threat to our security and May 9 is proof of that. It was rebellion. It was a mutiny." Watch the video here: Unbelievable. Defense Minister of Pakistan ⁦@KhawajaMAsif⁩ declared ⁦@ImranKhanPTI⁩ a bigger threat to the security of Pakistan than Indian Prime Minsiter ⁦@narendramodi⁩. pic.twitter.com/XzEnlhYRc6 — Hamid Mir حامد میر (@HamidMirPAK) June 1, 2023 × On Thursday, PTI party president Chaudhry Pervez Elahi was arrested outside his residence. Elahi is a close aide to the former prime minister. In a tweet, the party tweeted, "Shameful how the regime doesn't stop their fascism. The inflation has skyrocketed to 38%, and their response is arresting former CM Punjab Parvez Elahi. Absolutely ridiculous!" PTI also shared a video in which the 77-year-old leader was seen being dragged by security personnel from his residence. (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.

Imran Khan 'more dangerous' than Indian PM Narendra Modi, warns Pakistan defence minister

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with his visiting Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on Thursday, which focused on enhancing India-Nepal cooperation in various areas, which includes energy, connectivity and trade and signed transit agreements.</p>

<p>Speaking about his visit to Nepal&nbsp;in 2014, Indian PM Modi said that&nbsp;he had offered&nbsp;a 'hit formula' to improve relations between India and Nepal&nbsp;and that&nbsp;the agreements signed would help that relationship become a 'super hit'.</p>

<p>"I remember... nine years ago, in 2014, I made my first visit to Nepal. At that time I had given a 'hit' formula for India-Nepal relations - highways, I-ways, and trans-ways. I said we will establish such contacts that our borders do not become barriers. Today, the Nepal PM and I have taken many important decisions to make our partnership a super hit," Modi stated.</p>

<p>"We will continue to strive to take India-Nepal ties to Himalayan heights," he added. On Wednesday, the Nepalese prime minister embarked on his four-day visit to India.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🇮🇳 🇳🇵| Deepening the bonds of friendship and cooperation.<br />
<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> greets PM <a href="https://twitter.com/cmprachanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cmprachanda</a> of Nepal as the latter arrives in Hyderabad House for bilateral talks. <a href="https://t.co/oxRo7bxROo">pic.twitter.com/oxRo7bxROo</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1664149331165999104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The visit to India marks the first bilateral trip of Prachanda abroad after the 68-year-old Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-Maoist) leader came to power in December 2022.</p>

<p>After PM Modi welcomed "Prachanda"&nbsp;at the Hyderabad House, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted, "Deepening the bonds of friendship and co-operation. PM @narendramodi greets PM @cmprachanda of Nepal as the latter arrives in Hyderabad House for bilateral talks.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Transforming India-Nepal civilizational ties.<br />
<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and PM <a href="https://twitter.com/cmprachanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cmprachanda</a> hold discussions on ways to take the special &amp; unique 🇮🇳-🇳🇵 relationship to greater heights. <a href="https://t.co/xFIyjXRFyu">pic.twitter.com/xFIyjXRFyu</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1664155062220775425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Delegation-level talks were also held between PM Modi and Prachanda. Tweeting about the talks, Bagchi stated, “Agenda includes bolstering our age-old ties through enhanced connectivity in areas of the economy, energy, infrastructure, education &amp; people to people contacts.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delegation level talks led by PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and PM <a href="https://twitter.com/cmprachanda?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cmprachanda</a> of Nepal get underway.<br />
<br />
Agenda includes bolstering our age old ties through enhanced connectivity in areas of economy, energy, infrastructure, education &amp; people to people contacts. <a href="https://t.co/LUAHRWda2U">pic.twitter.com/LUAHRWda2U</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1664163592219029504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Cargo train from Bathnaha to Nepal Customs yard flagged off</strong></h2>

<p>Post the delegation-level talks, the two prime ministers&nbsp;jointly unveiled the e-plaque of the Kurtha-Bijalpura section of the Railway and flagged off the Indian Railway cargo train from Bathnaha to Nepal Customs Yard.</p>

<p>The two leaders exchanged agreements. After this PM Modi, addressing the joint press conference said, "Transit agreements have been signed today. We have established new rail links to increase physical connectivity. Long term power trade agreement has been established between India and Nepal today. This will give strength to the power sector of our countries. The religious and cultural ties between India and Nepal are very old and strong. To further strengthen this, we have decided that projects related to Ramayana Circuit should be expedited."</p>

<p>"I had said that we will establish such contacts between India-Nepal that our borders do not become barriers between us. Today Nepal PM and I have taken many important decisions to make our partnership a super hit in the future," he added.</p>

<h2>The Ramayana Circuit</h2>

<p>During the joint press conference, Modi stated, "Religious and cultural ties between India and Nepal are old and strong. To further strengthen this, we have decided that projects related to the Ramayana Circuit - one of 15 tourism circuits identified for development - should be expedited."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepalese-pm-embarks-on-crucial-indian-visit-aimed-at-boosting-energy-and-trade-598858">Nepalese PM embarks on crucial India visit aimed at boosting energy and trade</a></p>

<h2><strong>PM Prachanda's&nbsp;fourth visit to India</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Prachanda said, "This is my fourth visit to India. The relationship between India and Nepal is age-old. Today we discussed steps to strengthen the ties between both nations. We also jointly launched many groundbreaking projects. I have extended a cordial invitation to PM Modi to visit Nepal. I look forward to welcoming him to Nepal. I also urge PM Modi, to resolve the border issues with bilateral talks."</p>

<p>Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Dahal laid a wreath at Raj Ghat in the capital city of New Delhi. He also wrote a message in the visitor's book present at Raj Ghat.<br />
<br />
"PM @cmprachanda of Nepal paid solemn tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat," wrote India's Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter.</p>

<p>The Nepalese prime minister is on an official visit to India from May 31-June 3. This marks his fourth visit to India. Prachanda reached New Delhi on Wednesday and received a warm welcome from Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi.<br />
<br />
India's Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, informing about PM Dahal's arrival tweeted, "Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal arrives in Delhi, receives warm welcome by MoS Lekhi, PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship."<br />
<br />
On Wednesday, PM Dahal held talks with India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.<br />
<br />
Along with the official engagements, Dahal will also visit Indore and Ujjain, as part of his bilateral visit. During his visit, the two countries will work on the successes achieved in the bilateral partnerships by India and Nepal during previous high-level visits.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Nepal PM Dahal to meet India's PM Modi, to sign hydropower &amp; airline deals</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-pm-dahal-to-meet-indias-pm-modi-to-sign-hydropower-airline-deals-599011/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>During his official visit, Nepal Prime Minister Dahal will also hold talks with President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar.<br />
<br />
On Wednesday, Nepal's ambassador to India Shankar P Sharma called Pushpa Kamal Dahal's trip to India a "goodwill visit" and stated that it "will bring Nepal and India's relations to a good height".<br />
<br />
In a statement issued last week about the visit of Prachanda to India, Nepal's foreign ministry stated that the tour would "further strengthen the age-old, multifaceted, and cordial relations" between both nations.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with his visiting Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on Thursday, which focused on enhancing India-Nepal cooperation in various areas, which includes energy, connectivity and trade and signed transit agreements.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with his visiting Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on Thursday, which focused on enhancing India-Nepal cooperation in various areas, which includes energy, connectivity and trade and signed transit agreements. Speaking about his visit to Nepal in 2014, Indian PM Modi said that he had offered a 'hit formula' to improve relations between India and Nepal and that the agreements signed would help that relationship become a 'super hit'. "I remember... nine years ago, in 2014, I made my first visit to Nepal. At that time I had given a 'hit' formula for India-Nepal relations - highways, I-ways, and trans-ways. I said we will establish such contacts that our borders do not become barriers. Today, the Nepal PM and I have taken many important decisions to make our partnership a super hit," Modi stated. "We will continue to strive to take India-Nepal ties to Himalayan heights," he added. On Wednesday, the Nepalese prime minister embarked on his four-day visit to India. 🇮🇳 🇳🇵| Deepening the bonds of friendship and cooperation. PM @narendramodi greets PM @cmprachanda of Nepal as the latter arrives in Hyderabad House for bilateral talks. pic.twitter.com/oxRo7bxROo — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) June 1, 2023 × The visit to India marks the first bilateral trip of Prachanda abroad after the 68-year-old Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-Maoist) leader came to power in December 2022. After PM Modi welcomed "Prachanda" at the Hyderabad House, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted, "Deepening the bonds of friendship and co-operation. PM @narendramodi greets PM @cmprachanda of Nepal as the latter arrives in Hyderabad House for bilateral talks.” Transforming India-Nepal civilizational ties. PM @narendramodi and PM @cmprachanda hold discussions on ways to take the special & unique 🇮🇳-🇳🇵 relationship to greater heights. pic.twitter.com/xFIyjXRFyu — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) June 1, 2023 × Delegation-level talks were also held between PM Modi and Prachanda. Tweeting about the talks, Bagchi stated, “Agenda includes bolstering our age-old ties through enhanced connectivity in areas of the economy, energy, infrastructure, education & people to people contacts.” Delegation level talks led by PM @narendramodi and PM @cmprachanda of Nepal get underway. Agenda includes bolstering our age old ties through enhanced connectivity in areas of economy, energy, infrastructure, education & people to people contacts. pic.twitter.com/LUAHRWda2U — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) June 1, 2023 × Cargo train from Bathnaha to Nepal Customs yard flagged off Post the delegation-level talks, the two prime ministers jointly unveiled the e-plaque of the Kurtha-Bijalpura section of the Railway and flagged off the Indian Railway cargo train from Bathnaha to Nepal Customs Yard. The two leaders exchanged agreements. After this PM Modi, addressing the joint press conference said, "Transit agreements have been signed today. We have established new rail links to increase physical connectivity. Long term power trade agreement has been established between India and Nepal today. This will give strength to the power sector of our countries. The religious and cultural ties between India and Nepal are very old and strong. To further strengthen this, we have decided that projects related to Ramayana Circuit should be expedited." "I had said that we will establish such contacts between India-Nepal that our borders do not become barriers between us. Today Nepal PM and I have taken many important decisions to make our partnership a super hit in the future," he added. The Ramayana Circuit During the joint press conference, Modi stated, "Religious and cultural ties between India and Nepal are old and strong. To further strengthen this, we have decided that projects related to the Ramayana Circuit - one of 15 tourism circuits identified for development - should be expedited." ALSO READ | Nepalese PM embarks on crucial India visit aimed at boosting energy and trade PM Prachanda's fourth visit to India Meanwhile, Prachanda said, "This is my fourth visit to India. The relationship between India and Nepal is age-old. Today we discussed steps to strengthen the ties between both nations. We also jointly launched many groundbreaking projects. I have extended a cordial invitation to PM Modi to visit Nepal. I look forward to welcoming him to Nepal. I also urge PM Modi, to resolve the border issues with bilateral talks." Earlier on Thursday, Prime Minister Dahal laid a wreath at Raj Ghat in the capital city of New Delhi. He also wrote a message in the visitor's book present at Raj Ghat. "PM @cmprachanda of Nepal paid solemn tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat," wrote India's Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter. The Nepalese prime minister is on an official visit to India from May 31-June 3. This marks his fourth visit to India. Prachanda reached New Delhi on Wednesday and received a warm welcome from Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi. India's Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, informing about PM Dahal's arrival tweeted, "Nepal PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal arrives in Delhi, receives warm welcome by MoS Lekhi, PM @cmprachanda of Nepal arrives in New Delhi on his first overseas visit after assumption of office. Warmly welcomed by MoS @M_Lekhi at the airport. The visit will impart renewed momentum to the close and unique India-Nepal relationship." On Wednesday, PM Dahal held talks with India's National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. Along with the official engagements, Dahal will also visit Indore and Ujjain, as part of his bilateral visit. During his visit, the two countries will work on the successes achieved in the bilateral partnerships by India and Nepal during previous high-level visits. WATCH | Nepal PM Dahal to meet India's PM Modi, to sign hydropower & airline deals During his official visit, Nepal Prime Minister Dahal will also hold talks with President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar. On Wednesday, Nepal's ambassador to India Shankar P Sharma called Pushpa Kamal Dahal's trip to India a "goodwill visit" and stated that it "will bring Nepal and India's relations to a good height". In a statement issued last week about the visit of Prachanda to India, Nepal's foreign ministry stated that the tour would "further strengthen the age-old, multifaceted, and cordial relations" between both nations. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

‘Making our partnership superhit', says PM Modi on talks with Nepalese counterpart Prachanda

<p>Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was heckled by a&nbsp;group of Khalistani supporters during an event in San Francisco on Tuesday. During the event, the Khalistanis&nbsp;suddenly got up&nbsp;and&nbsp;started waving the Khalistani flag and raising slogans against Gandhi,&nbsp;interrupting his speech.</p>

<p>The supporters raised slogans against&nbsp;Indira Gandhi and the Gandhi family over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and massacre.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rahul Gandhi heckled by Khalistanis in California<br />
<br />
They raised Khalistan flag &amp; Khalistan Zindabad slogans<br />
<br />
It's done by US-based Khalistani outfit SFJ &amp; its chief Pannu released video of heckling Rahul Gandhi &amp; threatening PM Modi's US visit in June<br />
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CC: <a href="https://twitter.com/USAndIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAndIndia</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USAmbIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/W2MCIjkOR3">pic.twitter.com/W2MCIjkOR3</a></p>
— Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) <a href="https://twitter.com/AskAnshul/status/1663787682026393600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>A video was shared by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on social media which showed the visuals when the Khalistani supporters were protesting against the Congress leader.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi can explain God how universe works, says Rahul Gandhi</strong></h2>

<p>In another event while addressing the Indian diaspora in the United States on Wednesday, Gandhi stated that a bunch of people who are 'absolutely convinced' that they know everything has been running the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gandhi claimed that these people can sit down with God and explain things, adding that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is 'one such specimen'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think if you Modiji sat next to God, Modiji would start explaining to God how the universe works. Right? And God would get confused that what have I created. These are funny things but this is what is going on. There's a group of people who understands everything. They can explain science to scientists, history to historians, warfare to the Army.. And at the heart of it is mediocrity, they actually don't understand anything. Because in life, you can not understand anything if you are not ready to listen," Gandhi stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking about his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi said, “We were finding it difficult to act politically due to misuse of agencies and therefore, we decided to start Bharat Jodo Yatra.”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-court-grants-no-objection-certificate-to-rahul-gandhi-for-issuance-of-ordinary-passport-for-3-years-596839">Delhi court grants No Objection Certificate to Rahul Gandhi for issuance of ‘ordinary passport’ for 3 years</a></p>

<h2><strong>'No idea rejected by India'</strong></h2>

<p>He added that the people of India have not rejected any idea while speaking to the NRIs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"That's the India you represent. You would not be here if you did not agree with these values. If you believed in anger, hatred, and arrogance, you would be sitting in a BJP meeting and I would be doing 'mann ki baat'. So thank you very much for holding up the Indian Flag," Gandhi added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Now they have asked me to answer your questions. This also would not happen in BJP. No question, only answers there," the Congress leader further stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gandhi is visiting the United States for 10 days and San Francisco is&nbsp;his first stop. He will travel to Washington DC and New York.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The last foreign visit of Gandhi, which was to the UK, had led to a major controversy in India as he, who was then an MP, faced accusations of insulting Indian democracy on foreign soil.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi addresses press conference a day after removal as MP, says 'not scared of jail'</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Gandhi speaks on Sengol&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Gandhi stated that the government led by PM Modi failed to address issues like price rise, unemployment, the spread of hatred and anger, price rise and the crumbling education system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;"The BJP can't really discuss these issues so they have to do the sceptre thing. You know lying down and doing all that. Aren't you happy that I am not lying down," stated Gandhi, while speaking about the Sengol controversy which surfaced after the new Parliament building's inauguration.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Sengol is believed to be the symbol of power handed over from British India to independent India in 1947 and is displayed at a museum in Allahabad. The prime minister has installed the Sengol in the new Parliament building. The Congress stated there was no evidence of this claim.&nbsp;</p>

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was heckled by a group of Khalistani supporters during an event in San Francisco on Tuesday. During the event, the Khalistanis suddenly got up and started waving the Khalistani flag and raising slogans against Gandhi, interrupting his speech.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was heckled by a group of Khalistani supporters during an event in San Francisco on Tuesday. During the event, the Khalistanis suddenly got up and started waving the Khalistani flag and raising slogans against Gandhi, interrupting his speech. The supporters raised slogans against Indira Gandhi and the Gandhi family over the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and massacre. Rahul Gandhi heckled by Khalistanis in California They raised Khalistan flag & Khalistan Zindabad slogans It's done by US-based Khalistani outfit SFJ & its chief Pannu released video of heckling Rahul Gandhi & threatening PM Modi's US visit in June CC: @USAndIndia, @USAmbIndia pic.twitter.com/W2MCIjkOR3 — Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) May 31, 2023 × A video was shared by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on social media which showed the visuals when the Khalistani supporters were protesting against the Congress leader. PM Modi can explain God how universe works, says Rahul Gandhi In another event while addressing the Indian diaspora in the United States on Wednesday, Gandhi stated that a bunch of people who are 'absolutely convinced' that they know everything has been running the nation. Gandhi claimed that these people can sit down with God and explain things, adding that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is 'one such specimen'. "I think if you Modiji sat next to God, Modiji would start explaining to God how the universe works. Right? And God would get confused that what have I created. These are funny things but this is what is going on. There's a group of people who understands everything. They can explain science to scientists, history to historians, warfare to the Army.. And at the heart of it is mediocrity, they actually don't understand anything. Because in life, you can not understand anything if you are not ready to listen," Gandhi stated. Speaking about his Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi said, “We were finding it difficult to act politically due to misuse of agencies and therefore, we decided to start Bharat Jodo Yatra.” ALSO READ | Delhi court grants No Objection Certificate to Rahul Gandhi for issuance of ‘ordinary passport’ for 3 years 'No idea rejected by India' He added that the people of India have not rejected any idea while speaking to the NRIs. "That's the India you represent. You would not be here if you did not agree with these values. If you believed in anger, hatred, and arrogance, you would be sitting in a BJP meeting and I would be doing 'mann ki baat'. So thank you very much for holding up the Indian Flag," Gandhi added. "Now they have asked me to answer your questions. This also would not happen in BJP. No question, only answers there," the Congress leader further stated. Gandhi is visiting the United States for 10 days and San Francisco is his first stop. He will travel to Washington DC and New York. The last foreign visit of Gandhi, which was to the UK, had led to a major controversy in India as he, who was then an MP, faced accusations of insulting Indian democracy on foreign soil. WATCH | India: Rahul Gandhi addresses press conference a day after removal as MP, says 'not scared of jail' Gandhi speaks on Sengol Gandhi stated that the government led by PM Modi failed to address issues like price rise, unemployment, the spread of hatred and anger, price rise and the crumbling education system. "The BJP can't really discuss these issues so they have to do the sceptre thing. You know lying down and doing all that. Aren't you happy that I am not lying down," stated Gandhi, while speaking about the Sengol controversy which surfaced after the new Parliament building's inauguration. The Sengol is believed to be the symbol of power handed over from British India to independent India in 1947 and is displayed at a museum in Allahabad. The prime minister has installed the Sengol in the new Parliament building. The Congress stated there was no evidence of this claim. 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.

WATCH | Ghost of Sikh riots haunts Rahul Gandhi's California visit, leader gets heckled by Khalistanis

<p>A United States Congressional Committee on CCP (Chinese Communist Party) recommended the inclusion of India in NATO Plus. The suggestion to add India as a member country comes a month before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the US.<br />
<br />
The recommendation of including India in the five-member group was made to win the “strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party”.<br />
<br />
The House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the United States adopted a policy proposal to enhance the deterrence of Taiwan, which included strengthening of NATO Plus by the inclusion of India.<br />
<br />
The committee is headed by chairman Mike Gallagher along with ranking member Raja Krishnamoorthi.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-host-quad-summit-in-2024-594495">India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi</a></p>

<p>“Winning the strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party and ensuring the security of Taiwan demands the United States strengthen ties with our allies and security partners, including India. Including India in Nato Plus security arrangements would build upon the US and India’s close partnership to strengthen global security and deter the aggression of the CCP across the Indo-Pacific region,” stated the Select Committee in the recommendations released on Wednesday.<br />
<br />
According to its official website, the Select Committee on the CCP is “committed to working on a bipartisan basis to build consensus on the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party and develop a plan of action to defend the American people, our economy, and our values.”<br />
<br />
Top Democratic leader of the panel, Raja Krishnamoorthi, said that both Republicans and Democrats should work together across the aisle.<br />
<br />
“We must practice bipartisanship. We must recognise that the CCP wants us to be fractious, partisan and prejudiced,” he added.</p>

<h2><strong>India's addition to ensure&nbsp;seamless intelligence sharing</strong></h2>

<p>The recommendations stated that adding India to the group would ensure seamless intelligence sharing between these group countries and New Delhi would get easy access to the latest military technology without any delay.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: Quad meet on developments in the Indo-Pacific and regional issues</strong></p>

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<p>“The United States should strengthen the Nato Plus arrangement to include India. The United States should also strengthen diplomatic deterrence by supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organisations and amending the TAIPEI Act to provide that the United States, alongside its allies and partners, should publicly oppose any attempts by the CCP to resolve the status of Taiwan’s sovereignty by intentionally misusing, misinterpreting, and misleading others on the underlying purpose of UN Resolution 2758 or the United States’ One China Policy,” the recommendation stated.<br />
<br />
India is already an important member of the Quad group, which includes Japan, Australia and the United States.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A United States Congressional Committee on CCP (Chinese Communist Party) recommended the inclusion of India in NATO Plus. The suggestion to add India as a member country comes a month before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the US.

A United States Congressional Committee on CCP (Chinese Communist Party) recommended the inclusion of India in NATO Plus. The suggestion to add India as a member country comes a month before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to the US. The recommendation of including India in the five-member group was made to win the “strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party”. The House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the United States adopted a policy proposal to enhance the deterrence of Taiwan, which included strengthening of NATO Plus by the inclusion of India. The committee is headed by chairman Mike Gallagher along with ranking member Raja Krishnamoorthi. ALSO READ | India to host Quad summit in 2024, work for global welfare, peace, prosperity: PM Modi “Winning the strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party and ensuring the security of Taiwan demands the United States strengthen ties with our allies and security partners, including India. Including India in Nato Plus security arrangements would build upon the US and India’s close partnership to strengthen global security and deter the aggression of the CCP across the Indo-Pacific region,” stated the Select Committee in the recommendations released on Wednesday. According to its official website, the Select Committee on the CCP is “committed to working on a bipartisan basis to build consensus on the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party and develop a plan of action to defend the American people, our economy, and our values.” Top Democratic leader of the panel, Raja Krishnamoorthi, said that both Republicans and Democrats should work together across the aisle. “We must practice bipartisanship. We must recognise that the CCP wants us to be fractious, partisan and prejudiced,” he added. India's addition to ensure seamless intelligence sharing The recommendations stated that adding India to the group would ensure seamless intelligence sharing between these group countries and New Delhi would get easy access to the latest military technology without any delay. WATCH | India: Quad meet on developments in the Indo-Pacific and regional issues “The United States should strengthen the Nato Plus arrangement to include India. The United States should also strengthen diplomatic deterrence by supporting Taiwan’s participation in international organisations and amending the TAIPEI Act to provide that the United States, alongside its allies and partners, should publicly oppose any attempts by the CCP to resolve the status of Taiwan’s sovereignty by intentionally misusing, misinterpreting, and misleading others on the underlying purpose of UN Resolution 2758 or the United States’ One China Policy,” the recommendation stated. India is already an important member of the Quad group, which includes Japan, Australia and the United States. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US House panel recommends inclusion of India in NATO Plus to deter China

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 28) unveiled the plaque and inaugurated the country's new parliament building, which has been constructed adjacent to the old one in the national capital.<br />
<br />
The new parliament, which is a part of the government's ambitious Central Vista project, has been constructed in a span of two years by Tata Projects Limited, a Tata Group company.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM Modi unveils plaque; dedicates new Parliament building to nation<br />
<br />
Read <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> Story | <a href="https://t.co/RJS7OnK39r">https://t.co/RJS7OnK39r</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMModi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewParliamentBuilding?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewParliamentBuilding</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewParliament?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewParliament</a> <a href="https://t.co/cRs8VM1snJ">pic.twitter.com/cRs8VM1snJ</a></p>
— ANI Digital (@ani_digital) <a href="https://twitter.com/ani_digital/status/1662662043114041345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>PM installs 'Sengol' in Lok Sabha</strong></h2>

<p>Before the inauguration of the parliament, PM Modi attended an early morning ‘havan’ and multi-faith or 'sarv-dharma' prayers. The prayer meeting was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, union ministers and CMs of different states.<br />
<br />
The prime minister also performed "Ganapati Homam" to invoke Gods and seek their blessings before the parliament building's inauguration. Adheenams from Tamil Nadu's different mutts also arrived at the new parliament building to attend the inaugural ceremony.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-glimpses-of-indias-new-parliament-set-to-be-inaugurated-on-may-28-597151">In Pics | Glimpses of India's new parliament inaugurated by PM Modi</a></p>

<p>The prime minister prostrated before the 'Sengol' to pay&nbsp;his respects. The much-talked-about 'Sengol' is a historical sceptre whose name originates from the Tamil word "semmai" which means righteousness.<br />
<br />
PM Modi installed the 'Sengol' or sceptre in the new parliament building's Lok Sabha chamber, next to the chair of the speaker, in a special enclosure. The Adheenams handed over the historic 'Sengol' to the prime minister before it was installed in the new parliament.<br />
<br />
India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had received the sceptre as a mark of transfer of power from the British.<br />
<br />
The prime minister also met the workers who were involved in the construction of the new parliament building and felicitated them.<br />
<br />
On Saturday, the prime minister had received blessings from Adheenams, spiritual leaders from Tamil Nadu, at his residence.</p>

<p>After the inauguration, PM Modi tweeted, "As the new building of India’s Parliament is inaugurated, our hearts and minds are filled with pride, hope and promise. May this iconic building be a cradle of empowerment, igniting dreams and nurturing them into reality. May it propel our great nation to new heights of progress."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As the new building of India’s Parliament is inaugurated, our hearts and minds are filled with pride, hope and promise. May this iconic building be a cradle of empowerment, igniting dreams and nurturing them into reality. May it propel our great nation to new heights of progress. <a href="https://t.co/zzGuRoHrUS">pic.twitter.com/zzGuRoHrUS</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1662684955787542528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>All about India's new parliament building</strong></h2>

<p>The new parliament building will have more seating capacity. In the Lok Sabha, there will be seats for 888 MPs which was earlier only for 552 MPs and in Rajya Sabha, the seating capacity enhanced from 245 to 384.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India's new Parliament: PM Modi inaugurates the new building | Key features of the new Parliament</strong></p>

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<p>The design of the new Lok Sabha is inspired by India's national bird peacock and Rajya Sabha has been designed with a focus on India's national flower – lotus. The new parliament is spread over an area of around 65,000 square metres.<br />
<br />
If a joint session is held, the Lok Sabha chamber can accommodate 1,272 members. In the rest of the building, there will be four floors with offices of ministers and committee rooms.<br />
<br />
The new parliament building has been constructed ensuring that there is the latest communications technology, efficient space utilisation, and secure infrastructure which can meet the demand for workspaces.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 28) unveiled the plaque and inaugurated the country's new parliament building, which has been constructed adjacent to the old one in the national capital.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 28) unveiled the plaque and inaugurated the country's new parliament building, which has been constructed adjacent to the old one in the national capital. The new parliament, which is a part of the government's ambitious Central Vista project, has been constructed in a span of two years by Tata Projects Limited, a Tata Group company. PM Modi unveils plaque; dedicates new Parliament building to nation Read @ANI Story | https://t.co/RJS7OnK39r#PMModi #NewParliamentBuilding #NewParliament pic.twitter.com/cRs8VM1snJ — ANI Digital (@ani_digital) May 28, 2023 × PM installs 'Sengol' in Lok Sabha Before the inauguration of the parliament, PM Modi attended an early morning ‘havan’ and multi-faith or 'sarv-dharma' prayers. The prayer meeting was attended by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, union ministers and CMs of different states. The prime minister also performed "Ganapati Homam" to invoke Gods and seek their blessings before the parliament building's inauguration. Adheenams from Tamil Nadu's different mutts also arrived at the new parliament building to attend the inaugural ceremony. ALSO READ | In Pics | Glimpses of India's new parliament inaugurated by PM Modi The prime minister prostrated before the 'Sengol' to pay his respects. The much-talked-about 'Sengol' is a historical sceptre whose name originates from the Tamil word "semmai" which means righteousness. PM Modi installed the 'Sengol' or sceptre in the new parliament building's Lok Sabha chamber, next to the chair of the speaker, in a special enclosure. The Adheenams handed over the historic 'Sengol' to the prime minister before it was installed in the new parliament. India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had received the sceptre as a mark of transfer of power from the British. The prime minister also met the workers who were involved in the construction of the new parliament building and felicitated them. On Saturday, the prime minister had received blessings from Adheenams, spiritual leaders from Tamil Nadu, at his residence. After the inauguration, PM Modi tweeted, "As the new building of India’s Parliament is inaugurated, our hearts and minds are filled with pride, hope and promise. May this iconic building be a cradle of empowerment, igniting dreams and nurturing them into reality. May it propel our great nation to new heights of progress." As the new building of India’s Parliament is inaugurated, our hearts and minds are filled with pride, hope and promise. May this iconic building be a cradle of empowerment, igniting dreams and nurturing them into reality. May it propel our great nation to new heights of progress. pic.twitter.com/zzGuRoHrUS — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2023 × All about India's new parliament building The new parliament building will have more seating capacity. In the Lok Sabha, there will be seats for 888 MPs which was earlier only for 552 MPs and in Rajya Sabha, the seating capacity enhanced from 245 to 384. WATCH | India's new Parliament: PM Modi inaugurates the new building | Key features of the new Parliament The design of the new Lok Sabha is inspired by India's national bird peacock and Rajya Sabha has been designed with a focus on India's national flower – lotus. The new parliament is spread over an area of around 65,000 square metres. If a joint session is held, the Lok Sabha chamber can accommodate 1,272 members. In the rest of the building, there will be four floors with offices of ministers and committee rooms. The new parliament building has been constructed ensuring that there is the latest communications technology, efficient space utilisation, and secure infrastructure which can meet the demand for workspaces. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian PM Modi inaugurates new parliament, installs ‘Sengol’ in Lok Sabha

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Parliament building which is located next to the old one in New Delhi on Sunday (May 28). The new parliament is part of the government's Central Vista project. Multi-faith prayers were organised after the formal inauguration of the building concluded. In the United States, President Joe Biden and Republicans reached an "in principle" deal to avert the debt default. On June 5, the government is likely to hit its borrowing limit which was increasing the chances of the world's largest economy defaulting on its repayment obligations and putting the global markets on fire.</p>

<p>And China's first grown passenger aircraft, set out on its maiden commercial flight on Sunday. According to CCTV footage, just after 10.30 am (0230 GMT), the China Eastern Airlines aircraft MU9191 ascended over Shanghai Hongqiao Airport.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-parliament-building-inauguration-live-updates-indian-pm-modi-to-present-new-parliament-to-country-597330"><strong>New parliament building inauguration LIVE updates: Multi-faith prayer meeting concludes</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/28/354898-weekend-banner.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The multi-faith prayer meeting organised after the the formal inauguration of the parliament building concluded. Afterwards, PM Modi met various personalities that had gathered at the event. Indian PM Narendra Modi unveiled the plaque to mark the inauguration of the new parliament building after participating in the havan and installing the 'Sengol' in the lower house i.e Los Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-republicans-reach-deal-to-avert-catastrophic-debt-default-597327"><strong>US: Biden, Republicans reach ‘in principle’ deal to avert catastrophic debt default</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/28/354897-untitled-design-2023-05-28t071048932.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>United States President Joe Biden struck a deal in principle with Republican lawmakers to increase the debt ceiling of the country on Saturday, in a first crucial step towards averting the disastrous default with a few days to spare.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-first-homegrown-passenger-jet-c919-embarks-on-maiden-commercial-flight-597356"><strong>China's first homegrown passenger jet C919 embarks on maiden commercial flight</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/05/28/354901-untitled-design-2023-05-28t084517702.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The C919, China's first homegrown passenger aircraft, set out on its maiden commercial flight on Sunday, 28 May.&nbsp;This comes as China has been actively involved in the development, research, and testing of the passenger jet in recent years.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kyivs-much-awaited-counter-offensive-can-begin-tomorrow-day-after-or-in-a-week-top-ukraine-war-chief-597153"><strong>Kyiv's much awaited counter-offensive can begin 'tomorrow, day after or in a week': Top Ukraine war chief</strong></a></p>

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<p>A top Ukrainian war chief has revealed that the war-torn nation is ready to launch its much-anticipated counter-offensive against Russian forces. Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, revealed in an interview with the BBC that the assault to reclaim territory from President Vladimir Putin's occupying forces could begin at any time, be it "tomorrow, the day after tomorrow or in a week".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Serbian army on combat alert</strong></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Parliament building which is located next to the old one in New Delhi on Sunday (May 28). The new parliament is part of the government's Central Vista project.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new Parliament building which is located next to the old one in New Delhi on Sunday (May 28). The new parliament is part of the government's Central Vista project. Multi-faith prayers were organised after the formal inauguration of the building concluded. In the United States, President Joe Biden and Republicans reached an "in principle" deal to avert the debt default. On June 5, the government is likely to hit its borrowing limit which was increasing the chances of the world's largest economy defaulting on its repayment obligations and putting the global markets on fire. And China's first grown passenger aircraft, set out on its maiden commercial flight on Sunday. According to CCTV footage, just after 10.30 am (0230 GMT), the China Eastern Airlines aircraft MU9191 ascended over Shanghai Hongqiao Airport. Click on the headlines to read more: New parliament building inauguration LIVE updates: Multi-faith prayer meeting concludes The multi-faith prayer meeting organised after the the formal inauguration of the parliament building concluded. Afterwards, PM Modi met various personalities that had gathered at the event. Indian PM Narendra Modi unveiled the plaque to mark the inauguration of the new parliament building after participating in the havan and installing the 'Sengol' in the lower house i.e Los Sabha. US: Biden, Republicans reach ‘in principle’ deal to avert catastrophic debt default United States President Joe Biden struck a deal in principle with Republican lawmakers to increase the debt ceiling of the country on Saturday, in a first crucial step towards averting the disastrous default with a few days to spare. China's first homegrown passenger jet C919 embarks on maiden commercial flight The C919, China's first homegrown passenger aircraft, set out on its maiden commercial flight on Sunday, 28 May. This comes as China has been actively involved in the development, research, and testing of the passenger jet in recent years. Kyiv's much awaited counter-offensive can begin 'tomorrow, day after or in a week': Top Ukraine war chief A top Ukrainian war chief has revealed that the war-torn nation is ready to launch its much-anticipated counter-offensive against Russian forces. Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council, revealed in an interview with the BBC that the assault to reclaim territory from President Vladimir Putin's occupying forces could begin at any time, be it "tomorrow, the day after tomorrow or in a week". WATCH | Serbian army on combat alert × 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.

Morning brief: Modi inaugurates new parliament building; Biden, Republicans reach deal to avert debt crisis

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video late on Friday which gave a glimpse of the new parliament complex, which is set to be inaugurated by him on May 28 (Sunday), along with a “special request”.<br />
<br />
The prime minister appealed to the citizens to repost the video along with their own voice-over which conveys the thoughts of people about the new structure that is set to replace the iconic circular parliament of India. He further appealed to people to use ‘#MyParliamentMyPride’ while re-posting the videos.<br />
<br />
“The new parliament building will make every Indian proud. This video offers a glimpse of this iconic building. I have a special request&nbsp;— share this video with your own voice-over, which conveys your thoughts. I will re-tweet some of them. Don’t forget to use #MyParliamentMyPride,” wrote PM Modi on Twitter.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The new Parliament building will make every Indian proud. This video offers a glimpse of this iconic building. I have a special request- share this video with your own voice-over, which conveys your thoughts. I will re-Tweet some of them. Don’t forget to use <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MyParliamentMyPride?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MyParliamentMyPride</a>. <a href="https://t.co/yEt4F38e8E">pic.twitter.com/yEt4F38e8E</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1662069125257269252?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The video footage revealed a structure which has a remarkable blend of traditional Indian architectural elements and modernity.<br />
<br />
The design further incorporated elements from culture and Indian history which appeared to be blending seamlessly with contemporary aesthetics. The exterior features of the building boasted intricate detailing, which included patterns and ornate carvings that represent the rich artistic heritage of India.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-sc-quashes-plea-seeking-inauguration-of-new-parliament-building-by-president-instead-of-pm-596700">Indian SC quashes plea seeking inauguration of new Parliament building by President instead of PM</a></p>

<p>The new parliament complex's Lok Sabha chamber will have 888 seats and the Rajya Sabha chamber 384 seats. Unlike the current building, the new parliament will not have a central hall.<br />
<br />
In case of a joint session, the Lok Sabha chamber will be able to include 1,272 members. There will be four floors in the rest of the building with offices of ministers and committee rooms.</p>

<h2><strong>Ministers share video, express pride over new complex</strong></h2>

<p>The video was also shared on social media with the hashtag '#MyParliamentMyPride' by many leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party which included chief ministers and union ministers.<br />
<br />
“My heart swells with pride that India has it's own built monumental Parliament Building completed in record time due to unwavering commitment of Prime Minister @narendramodi ji,” tweeted Union Minister Kiren Rijiju.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate new parliament on May 28</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “The new parliament building, and its grandeur, stand tall as a symbol of India's power &amp; pride. Posterity shall forever be indebted to you Hon Prime Minister Sir, for giving us this monumental icon, India's shining temple of democracy; every brick of it signifying the resolve of her 1.4 billion people and their New India.”<br />
<br />
Sharing the video Union Minister Anurag Thakur tweeted: “Behold the astonishing glimpse of the magnificent New Parliament building, a testament to India's progressive vision! A symbol of strength, unity, and democracy, this architectural marvel stands tall to redefine India's future. Join us in celebrating India's journey towards a brighter and better tomorrow.”</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video late on Friday which gave a glimpse of the new parliament complex, which is set to be inaugurated by him on May 28 (Sunday), along with a “special request”.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a video late on Friday which gave a glimpse of the new parliament complex, which is set to be inaugurated by him on May 28 (Sunday), along with a “special request”. The prime minister appealed to the citizens to repost the video along with their own voice-over which conveys the thoughts of people about the new structure that is set to replace the iconic circular parliament of India. He further appealed to people to use ‘#MyParliamentMyPride’ while re-posting the videos. “The new parliament building will make every Indian proud. This video offers a glimpse of this iconic building. I have a special request — share this video with your own voice-over, which conveys your thoughts. I will re-tweet some of them. Don’t forget to use #MyParliamentMyPride,” wrote PM Modi on Twitter. The new Parliament building will make every Indian proud. This video offers a glimpse of this iconic building. I have a special request- share this video with your own voice-over, which conveys your thoughts. I will re-Tweet some of them. Don’t forget to use #MyParliamentMyPride. pic.twitter.com/yEt4F38e8E — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 26, 2023 × The video footage revealed a structure which has a remarkable blend of traditional Indian architectural elements and modernity. The design further incorporated elements from culture and Indian history which appeared to be blending seamlessly with contemporary aesthetics. The exterior features of the building boasted intricate detailing, which included patterns and ornate carvings that represent the rich artistic heritage of India. ALSO READ | Indian SC quashes plea seeking inauguration of new Parliament building by President instead of PM The new parliament complex's Lok Sabha chamber will have 888 seats and the Rajya Sabha chamber 384 seats. Unlike the current building, the new parliament will not have a central hall. In case of a joint session, the Lok Sabha chamber will be able to include 1,272 members. There will be four floors in the rest of the building with offices of ministers and committee rooms. Ministers share video, express pride over new complex The video was also shared on social media with the hashtag '#MyParliamentMyPride' by many leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party which included chief ministers and union ministers. “My heart swells with pride that India has it's own built monumental Parliament Building completed in record time due to unwavering commitment of Prime Minister @narendramodi ji,” tweeted Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. WATCH | Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate new parliament on May 28 Meanwhile, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “The new parliament building, and its grandeur, stand tall as a symbol of India's power & pride. Posterity shall forever be indebted to you Hon Prime Minister Sir, for giving us this monumental icon, India's shining temple of democracy; every brick of it signifying the resolve of her 1.4 billion people and their New India.” Sharing the video Union Minister Anurag Thakur tweeted: “Behold the astonishing glimpse of the magnificent New Parliament building, a testament to India's progressive vision! A symbol of strength, unity, and democracy, this architectural marvel stands tall to redefine India's future. Join us in celebrating India's journey towards a brighter and better tomorrow.” 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.

Watch | India’s PM Modi drops video of new parliament building ahead of its inauguration

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 28) addressed the delegates in the new parliament building, hours after inaugurating it amid much pomp and fanfare. PM Modi said the new parliament was a symbol of aspiration for the 140 crore people of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The new parliament isn't just a building, it is the symbol of the aspiration for the 140 crore&nbsp;people of India. It gives a message to the world about India's determination," said PM Modi, adding that the new complex "will witness the realisation of our 'developed India' resolution."</p>

<p>"When India moves forward, the world moves forward. This new building of the parliament will call for the development of the world along with the development of India," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>India sheds colonial baggage, Sengol an inspiration: PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>The PM said several years of foreign rule had stolen the pride of Indian citizens, but with the inauguration of the new parliament building, India had left behind that "colonial mindset".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The BJP leader said whenever proceedings commence in the parliament, 'Sengol' will continue to inspire everyone.</p>

<p>"It is our good fortune that we have been able to restore the pride of the holy 'Sengol'. Whenever proceedings start in this House the 'Sengol' will inspire us," Modi said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-parliament-building-inauguration-live-updates-indian-pm-modi-to-present-new-parliament-to-country-597330"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;New parliament inauguration LIVE: PM Modi says building 'a reflection of aspirations of new India'</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier in the morning,&nbsp;PM Modi installed the 'Sengol', or sceptre, in the lower house of the parliament i.e. Lok Sabha, next to the chair of the speaker, in a special enclosure. The Adheenams handed over the historic 'Sengol' to the PM before it was installed in the new parliament.<br />
<br />
India's first PM Jawaharlal Nehru had received the sceptre as a mark of transfer of power from the British.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delighted to see Sengol being recognized at the inauguration of the new building of the Indian Parliament. Its august presence illustrates how heritage and progress merge beautifully, giving us added inspiration to fulfil people’s aspirations. <a href="https://t.co/LurlM4opbo">pic.twitter.com/LurlM4opbo</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1662739199236378625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>New parliament was the need of the hour: Modi</strong></h2>

<p>With the freeze to increase the number of parliamentary seats expected to be lifted in 2026, PM Modi sounded optimistic that the new building will help usher in a new era of Indian democracy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There was a need for new parliament. We also have to see that the number of seats and MPs will increase in the coming time. That's why it was need of the hour that a new parliament is made."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-new-parliament-worlds-largest-democracy-gets-a-new-house-details-597361"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India's new Parliament: World's largest democracy gets a new house | Details</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Features of the new parliament&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The new parliament, located adjacent to the old parliament in the heart of New Delhi, has been constructed by&nbsp;Tata Projects Limited, a Tata Group firm, within a two-year span, under the Central Vista&nbsp;project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new parliament building greatly extends the seating capacity of Lok Sabha MPs from the current 552 to 888. Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha seating capacity has been extended from 245 to 384.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The design of the new Lok Sabha is inspired by India's national bird peacock and Rajya Sabha has been designed with a focus on India's national flower – lotus. The new parliament is spread over an area of around 65,000 square metres.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 28) addressed the delegates in the new parliament building, hours after inaugurating it amid much pomp and fanfare.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 28) addressed the delegates in the new parliament building, hours after inaugurating it amid much pomp and fanfare. PM Modi said the new parliament was a symbol of aspiration for the 140 crore people of India. "The new parliament isn't just a building, it is the symbol of the aspiration for the 140 crore people of India. It gives a message to the world about India's determination," said PM Modi, adding that the new complex "will witness the realisation of our 'developed India' resolution." "When India moves forward, the world moves forward. This new building of the parliament will call for the development of the world along with the development of India," he added. India sheds colonial baggage, Sengol an inspiration: PM Modi The PM said several years of foreign rule had stolen the pride of Indian citizens, but with the inauguration of the new parliament building, India had left behind that "colonial mindset". The BJP leader said whenever proceedings commence in the parliament, 'Sengol' will continue to inspire everyone. "It is our good fortune that we have been able to restore the pride of the holy 'Sengol'. Whenever proceedings start in this House the 'Sengol' will inspire us," Modi said. ALSO READ | New parliament inauguration LIVE: PM Modi says building 'a reflection of aspirations of new India' Earlier in the morning, PM Modi installed the 'Sengol', or sceptre, in the lower house of the parliament i.e. Lok Sabha, next to the chair of the speaker, in a special enclosure. The Adheenams handed over the historic 'Sengol' to the PM before it was installed in the new parliament. India's first PM Jawaharlal Nehru had received the sceptre as a mark of transfer of power from the British. Delighted to see Sengol being recognized at the inauguration of the new building of the Indian Parliament. Its august presence illustrates how heritage and progress merge beautifully, giving us added inspiration to fulfil people’s aspirations. pic.twitter.com/LurlM4opbo — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2023 × New parliament was the need of the hour: Modi With the freeze to increase the number of parliamentary seats expected to be lifted in 2026, PM Modi sounded optimistic that the new building will help usher in a new era of Indian democracy. "There was a need for new parliament. We also have to see that the number of seats and MPs will increase in the coming time. That's why it was need of the hour that a new parliament is made." WATCH | India's new Parliament: World's largest democracy gets a new house | Details × Features of the new parliament The new parliament, located adjacent to the old parliament in the heart of New Delhi, has been constructed by Tata Projects Limited, a Tata Group firm, within a two-year span, under the Central Vista project. The new parliament building greatly extends the seating capacity of Lok Sabha MPs from the current 552 to 888. Meanwhile, the Rajya Sabha seating capacity has been extended from 245 to 384. The design of the new Lok Sabha is inspired by India's national bird peacock and Rajya Sabha has been designed with a focus on India's national flower – lotus. The new parliament is spread over an area of around 65,000 square metres. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Symbol of aspiration for 140cr people': Indian PM Modi during his opening speech in new parliament

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah will kick off a day-long conclave on ‘Nine Years of Seva, Sushasan, Garib Kalyan’ (Service, good governance, and welfare of poor) held by Doordarshan on Saturday (May 27).</p>

<p>Anurag Thakur, Minister of Information and Broadcasting, will be the keynote speaker at the conference, which will include panel discussions on three themes: India Surging Ahead, Jan, Jan ka Vishwas (people's confidence), and Yuva Shakti: Galvanising India, as per PTI reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Industry leaders Sunil Bharti Mittal, Sangita Reddy, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Ritesh Agarwal, Debjani Ghosh, actors Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Rishab Shetty, sarod exponent Aman Ali Bangash, and athletes Nikhat Zareen, Viren Rasquinha, and Akhil Kumar will take part in the panel discussions.</p>

<p>A booklet detailing the achievements of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government over the previous nine years will be released.</p>

<h2><strong>New parliament row</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that the newly built parliament building would be inaugurated&nbsp;on Sunday (May 28).&nbsp;Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and invited him to the inauguration of the new parliament building.</p>

<p>As per&nbsp;a Lok Sabha release, the new parliament building in the national capital has been completed and "symbolises the spirit of self-reliance in India"</p>

<p>"The lack of space was being experienced in the current building as per the present requirements. In both the Houses, there was also&nbsp;a lack of convenient arrangements for the sitting of MPs which was affecting the efficiency of the members," the release said.</p>

<p>The current Parliament building was erected in 1927, making it about 100 years old.</p>

<p>The Centre has invited all present members of both houses of Parliament, as well as ministers, secretaries, chief ministers, and administrators of Union Territories for the inauguration.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition plans boycott</strong></h2>

<p>However, as many as 20 parties have voiced their intention to boycott the event, including the Congress, CPI, AAP, and Trinamool Congress.</p>

<p>In a joint statement, the opposition parties said, “The inauguration of a new parliament building is a momentous occasion. Despite our belief that the government is threatening democracy, and our disapproval of the autocratic manner in which the new parliament was built, we were open to sinking our differences and marking this occasion. However, Prime Minister Modi’s decision to inaugurate the new parliament building himself, completely sidelining President Murmu, is not only a grave insult but a direct assault on our democracy which demands a commensurate response."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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Union Home Minister Amit Shah will kick off a day-long conclave on ‘Nine Years of Seva, Sushasan, Garib Kalyan’ (Service, good governance, and welfare of poor) held by Doordarshan on Saturday (May 27).

Union Home Minister Amit Shah will kick off a day-long conclave on ‘Nine Years of Seva, Sushasan, Garib Kalyan’ (Service, good governance, and welfare of poor) held by Doordarshan on Saturday (May 27). Anurag Thakur, Minister of Information and Broadcasting, will be the keynote speaker at the conference, which will include panel discussions on three themes: India Surging Ahead, Jan, Jan ka Vishwas (people's confidence), and Yuva Shakti: Galvanising India, as per PTI reports. Industry leaders Sunil Bharti Mittal, Sangita Reddy, Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Ritesh Agarwal, Debjani Ghosh, actors Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Rishab Shetty, sarod exponent Aman Ali Bangash, and athletes Nikhat Zareen, Viren Rasquinha, and Akhil Kumar will take part in the panel discussions. A booklet detailing the achievements of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government over the previous nine years will be released. New parliament row Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that the newly built parliament building would be inaugurated on Sunday (May 28). Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and invited him to the inauguration of the new parliament building. As per a Lok Sabha release, the new parliament building in the national capital has been completed and "symbolises the spirit of self-reliance in India" "The lack of space was being experienced in the current building as per the present requirements. In both the Houses, there was also a lack of convenient arrangements for the sitting of MPs which was affecting the efficiency of the members," the release said. The current Parliament building was erected in 1927, making it about 100 years old. The Centre has invited all present members of both houses of Parliament, as well as ministers, secretaries, chief ministers, and administrators of Union Territories for the inauguration. Opposition plans boycott However, as many as 20 parties have voiced their intention to boycott the event, including the Congress, CPI, AAP, and Trinamool Congress. In a joint statement, the opposition parties said, “The inauguration of a new parliament building is a momentous occasion. Despite our belief that the government is threatening democracy, and our disapproval of the autocratic manner in which the new parliament was built, we were open to sinking our differences and marking this occasion. However, Prime Minister Modi’s decision to inaugurate the new parliament building himself, completely sidelining President Murmu, is not only a grave insult but a direct assault on our democracy which demands a commensurate response." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Home minister Amit Shah to kick off day-long conclave on 9 years of Modi govt

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his successful visit to Australia where he held bilateral discussions with the Australian government over trade, diplomatic and cultural ties.</p>

<p>During a community event at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, he received a rousing welcome from the Indian diaspora and&nbsp;elaborated on how relations between the two countries have grown stronger over the years.</p>

<p>Speaking exclusively to WION’s correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the Indian-origin Deputy Premier Of New South Wales, Prue Car, reflected on PM Modi's visit to the country and the role Indian diaspora plays in strengthening the relations between the two countries.</p>

<p><strong>Here are a few excerpts</strong></p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see the Indian PM's visit to Sydney?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car:</strong> I don't think I have seen anything like this in a lifetime. It was a spectacular event. Celebrating PM's arrival. Also importantly, as a member of parliament, celebrate unique relations between both countries.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> <strong>Being someone of Indian origin yourself, how do you see the role of the Indian diaspora in Australia?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car:</strong> I have the joy of not only being an Indian, my father came here with his family, I have the joy of representing my own community full of people that are migrating from India making Sydney their home. It is growing faster than any other community in this country focused on education and providing for children.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> <strong>Why should they come to New South Wales for education? And what opportunities do they have in this part of Australia?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car:</strong> Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world. We welcome people coming from India, and emerging industries in Sydney. Right opportunities for university studies. Emerging technologies, a lot of jobs, the sky's the limit for migrants coming. Because of all the students who come over to Australia to study, many of them stay and they have their own families, that's part of why the Indian diaspora is so strong here.</p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see the mobility pact pay-way for the legal migration of Indians to Australia? How do you see that?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car</strong>: We will see the results of a productive relationship; we have seen one of the great friendships between PM Albanese and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have seen some deliverable concrete things have come from that. I would love to be a part of a future seeing them flourish and seeing more developments, especially in education and what we can do together in education.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Are we expecting more name change that brings together the Indian Australian diaspora and also in terms of the names of the location being changed?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Prue Car:</strong> I'd be very open to that. There are some parts of my own community/ in my own district that I represent in western Sydney where there are very large migrants.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his successful visit to Australia where he held bilateral discussions with the Australian government over trade, diplomatic and cultural ties.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his successful visit to Australia where he held bilateral discussions with the Australian government over trade, diplomatic and cultural ties. During a community event at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, he received a rousing welcome from the Indian diaspora and elaborated on how relations between the two countries have grown stronger over the years. Speaking exclusively to WION’s correspondent Sidhant Sibal, the Indian-origin Deputy Premier Of New South Wales, Prue Car, reflected on PM Modi's visit to the country and the role Indian diaspora plays in strengthening the relations between the two countries. Here are a few excerpts WION: How do you see the Indian PM's visit to Sydney? Prue Car: I don't think I have seen anything like this in a lifetime. It was a spectacular event. Celebrating PM's arrival. Also importantly, as a member of parliament, celebrate unique relations between both countries. WION: Being someone of Indian origin yourself, how do you see the role of the Indian diaspora in Australia? Prue Car: I have the joy of not only being an Indian, my father came here with his family, I have the joy of representing my own community full of people that are migrating from India making Sydney their home. It is growing faster than any other community in this country focused on education and providing for children. WION: Why should they come to New South Wales for education? And what opportunities do they have in this part of Australia? Prue Car: Australia is one of the most successful multicultural countries in the world. We welcome people coming from India, and emerging industries in Sydney. Right opportunities for university studies. Emerging technologies, a lot of jobs, the sky's the limit for migrants coming. Because of all the students who come over to Australia to study, many of them stay and they have their own families, that's part of why the Indian diaspora is so strong here. WION: How do you see the mobility pact pay-way for the legal migration of Indians to Australia? How do you see that? Prue Car: We will see the results of a productive relationship; we have seen one of the great friendships between PM Albanese and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have seen some deliverable concrete things have come from that. I would love to be a part of a future seeing them flourish and seeing more developments, especially in education and what we can do together in education. WION: Are we expecting more name change that brings together the Indian Australian diaspora and also in terms of the names of the location being changed? Prue Car: I'd be very open to that. There are some parts of my own community/ in my own district that I represent in western Sydney where there are very large migrants. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Never seen an event like this', says NSW Deputy Premier on PM Modi's grand welcome in Australia

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<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sought Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's support for the Ukraine peace proposal to end the ongoing war, according to a report by the Hindustan Times on Thursday (May 24). Zelensky presented Modi with a peace plan to end the war with Russia on the sidelines of the recently concluded G-7 summit in Hiroshima and sought New Delhi's endorsement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sources told Hindustan Times that Zelensky was most respectful of Modi and made no demands on India for asking support for his peace proposal as he felt that many countries look towards the largest democracy in the world. The proposal is under consideration by the Indian government, the report added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky invites Modi to visit Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>During their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima last Saturday (May 21), Ukrainian President Zelensky invited the Indian prime minister to visit Ukraine. During their first face-to-face meeting since the Russian offensive began in February 2022, the two leaders discussed Ukraine's needs in mobile hospitals and removing land mines, Zelensky said in a post on Telegram.</p>

<p>Modi, meanwhile, told the Ukrainian president that he was keen to help and that for him war was an issue of humanity and human values. Earlier in a Twitter post, Modi said he told Zelensky of India's readiness to continue humanitarian help for the people of Ukraine and its backing for "dialogue and diplomacy" to seek peace.</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the war, the Indian prime minister has spoken to both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelensky by phone several times, urging them to use dialogue and diplomacy to resolve their differences.</p>

<h2><strong>Wagner starts withdrawing units from Bakhmut</strong></h2>

<p>In the latest news on the Ukraine war, the Russian mercenary group Wagner has started withdrawing its forces from Bakhmut- which has emerged as the new flashpoint in the conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are withdrawing the units from Bakhmut. From today at five in the morning, May 25 until June 1, most of the units will rebase to camps in the rear. We are handing our positions to the military," Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a video posted on Telegram. Prigozhin also said that his forces would be ready to return to Bakhmut if the regular army was unable to manage the situation.</p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sought Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's support for the Ukraine peace proposal to end the ongoing war, according to a report by the Hindustan Times on Thursday (May 24).

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sought Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's support for the Ukraine peace proposal to end the ongoing war, according to a report by the Hindustan Times on Thursday (May 24). Zelensky presented Modi with a peace plan to end the war with Russia on the sidelines of the recently concluded G-7 summit in Hiroshima and sought New Delhi's endorsement. Sources told Hindustan Times that Zelensky was most respectful of Modi and made no demands on India for asking support for his peace proposal as he felt that many countries look towards the largest democracy in the world. The proposal is under consideration by the Indian government, the report added. Zelensky invites Modi to visit Ukraine During their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Hiroshima last Saturday (May 21), Ukrainian President Zelensky invited the Indian prime minister to visit Ukraine. During their first face-to-face meeting since the Russian offensive began in February 2022, the two leaders discussed Ukraine's needs in mobile hospitals and removing land mines, Zelensky said in a post on Telegram. Modi, meanwhile, told the Ukrainian president that he was keen to help and that for him war was an issue of humanity and human values. Earlier in a Twitter post, Modi said he told Zelensky of India's readiness to continue humanitarian help for the people of Ukraine and its backing for "dialogue and diplomacy" to seek peace. Since the beginning of the war, the Indian prime minister has spoken to both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Zelensky by phone several times, urging them to use dialogue and diplomacy to resolve their differences. Wagner starts withdrawing units from Bakhmut In the latest news on the Ukraine war, the Russian mercenary group Wagner has started withdrawing its forces from Bakhmut- which has emerged as the new flashpoint in the conflict. "We are withdrawing the units from Bakhmut. From today at five in the morning, May 25 until June 1, most of the units will rebase to camps in the rear. We are handing our positions to the military," Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin said in a video posted on Telegram. Prigozhin also said that his forces would be ready to return to Bakhmut if the regular army was unable to manage the situation. 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.

Ukraine-Russia war: Zelensky seeks Indian PM Modi's support for his peace plan, says report

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney on Wednesday with the major impetus being on boosting economic cooperation&nbsp;as he wraps up the third and final leg of his three-nation tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leaders discussed wide-ranging issues with a focus on boosting ties in areas of trade and investment, defence and renewable energy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ahead of the talks, the Indian prime minister signed the visitors’ book at the Admiralty House, where he was accorded a Ceremonial Guard of Honour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the presser after the talks, Albanese thanked PM Modi for visiting his country. He said, "This is my sixth meeting with Modi within one year. We both are targeting renewable cooperation with our task forces."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My visit to India in March defines, trade, business &amp; people to people links," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bilateral talks took place a day after Modi addressed the Indian community at a rally in Sydney that was also attended by Albanese, who called the event "significant".</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a bilateral meeting with Australian PM Anthony Albanese, in Sydney <a href="https://t.co/SJ9BBqJAre">pic.twitter.com/SJ9BBqJAre</a></p>
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<h2><strong>India-Australia ties in ‘T20’ mode: PM Modi&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>During the presser, PM Modi said that he is "very pleased and thankful" for the welcome he received during the Australia visit. He also hailed the respect given to him and the delegation during the tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Using a cricket analogy while referring to the sixth meeting with PM Albanese within a year, PM Modi said, "Our sixth meet, defines in cricket language, our relationship is in T20 mode."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "Our ties are based on mutual trust and respect. In our talks, we discussed comprehensive strategy for the next decade and also discussed India and Australia’s unity. This will further strengthen our partnership and look for fresh avenues together."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The Indian community in Australia is the living bridge between India and Australia, Modi added.</p>

<p>“We discussed taking India-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership to new heights. We decided to focus on comprehensive economic cooperation agreement that will further boost economic ties and held detailed discussions on scope of cooperation in new areas,” PM Modi said in the joint presser after the talks.</p>

<p>Australian prime minister said he is "pleased" to launch Australian consulate in Bengaluru, and PM Modi also said that India will open a Consulate in Brisbane just like Australian Consulate in Bengaluru.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi raises&nbsp;the issue of temple attacks, vandalism&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi also said that they discussed attacks and vandalism on Hindu temples in Australia. He said, "PM Anthony Albanese and I have in the past discussed the issue of attacks on temples in Australia and activities of separatist elements. We discussed the matter today also."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We will not accept any elements that harm the friendly and warm ties between India and Australia by their actions or thoughts. PM Albanese assured me once again today that he will take strict actions against such elements in the future also."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister said, "PM Albanese and I have discussed in Quad Summit, about the peace in the region. We have discussed issues in the Indo-Pacific region."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | PM Anthony Albanese and I have in the past discussed the issue of attack on temples in Australia and activities of separatist elements. We discussed the matter today also. We will not accept any elements that harm the friendly and warm ties between the India-Australia… <a href="https://t.co/CJxdU64upC">pic.twitter.com/CJxdU64upC</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1661184874013954048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>PM Modi and Albanese also witnessed the exchange of MoUs between the two countries. PM Modi's visit is crucial as both the nations have been working on boosting ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India and Australia finalised the Economic Cooperation Trade Agreement (ECTA) last year and it came into force in December last.&nbsp;The two sides are now working on the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Albanese said on Monday: "Australia and India share a commitment to a stable, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Together, we have an important role to play in supporting this vision."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In June 2020, India and Australia elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and signed a landmark deal for reciprocal access to military bases for logistics support.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney on Wednesday with the major impetus being on boosting economic cooperation as he wraps up the third and final leg of his three-nation tour.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in Sydney on Wednesday with the major impetus being on boosting economic cooperation as he wraps up the third and final leg of his three-nation tour. The two leaders discussed wide-ranging issues with a focus on boosting ties in areas of trade and investment, defence and renewable energy. Ahead of the talks, the Indian prime minister signed the visitors’ book at the Admiralty House, where he was accorded a Ceremonial Guard of Honour. In the presser after the talks, Albanese thanked PM Modi for visiting his country. He said, "This is my sixth meeting with Modi within one year. We both are targeting renewable cooperation with our task forces." "My visit to India in March defines, trade, business & people to people links," he added. The bilateral talks took place a day after Modi addressed the Indian community at a rally in Sydney that was also attended by Albanese, who called the event "significant". #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi holds a bilateral meeting with Australian PM Anthony Albanese, in Sydney pic.twitter.com/SJ9BBqJAre — ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2023 × #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi signs the visitors' book at the Admiralty House in Sydney, Australia pic.twitter.com/SfkkWwLGSB — ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2023 × #WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi accorded a Ceremonial Guard of Honour at the Admiralty House in Sydney, Australia pic.twitter.com/ECLMbw018V — ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2023 × India-Australia ties in ‘T20’ mode: PM Modi During the presser, PM Modi said that he is "very pleased and thankful" for the welcome he received during the Australia visit. He also hailed the respect given to him and the delegation during the tour. Using a cricket analogy while referring to the sixth meeting with PM Albanese within a year, PM Modi said, "Our sixth meet, defines in cricket language, our relationship is in T20 mode." He added, "Our ties are based on mutual trust and respect. In our talks, we discussed comprehensive strategy for the next decade and also discussed India and Australia’s unity. This will further strengthen our partnership and look for fresh avenues together." The Indian community in Australia is the living bridge between India and Australia, Modi added. “We discussed taking India-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership to new heights. We decided to focus on comprehensive economic cooperation agreement that will further boost economic ties and held detailed discussions on scope of cooperation in new areas,” PM Modi said in the joint presser after the talks. Australian prime minister said he is "pleased" to launch Australian consulate in Bengaluru, and PM Modi also said that India will open a Consulate in Brisbane just like Australian Consulate in Bengaluru. PM Modi raises the issue of temple attacks, vandalism PM Modi also said that they discussed attacks and vandalism on Hindu temples in Australia. He said, "PM Anthony Albanese and I have in the past discussed the issue of attacks on temples in Australia and activities of separatist elements. We discussed the matter today also." "We will not accept any elements that harm the friendly and warm ties between India and Australia by their actions or thoughts. PM Albanese assured me once again today that he will take strict actions against such elements in the future also." The Indian prime minister said, "PM Albanese and I have discussed in Quad Summit, about the peace in the region. We have discussed issues in the Indo-Pacific region." #WATCH | PM Anthony Albanese and I have in the past discussed the issue of attack on temples in Australia and activities of separatist elements. We discussed the matter today also. We will not accept any elements that harm the friendly and warm ties between the India-Australia… pic.twitter.com/CJxdU64upC — ANI (@ANI) May 24, 2023 × PM Modi and Albanese also witnessed the exchange of MoUs between the two countries. PM Modi's visit is crucial as both the nations have been working on boosting ties. India and Australia finalised the Economic Cooperation Trade Agreement (ECTA) last year and it came into force in December last. The two sides are now working on the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA). Albanese said on Monday: "Australia and India share a commitment to a stable, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Together, we have an important role to play in supporting this vision." In June 2020, India and Australia elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and signed a landmark deal for reciprocal access to military bases for logistics support. (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.

PM Modi, Albanese focus on boosting economic cooperation in talks, discuss trade, defence, renewable energy

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate new parliament building on May 28. The new building will soon be the seat of the highest legislative body of largest democracy in the world. The government headed by PM Modi intends for the new parliament building to be centre of legislative activity rather than&nbsp;the current colonial-era building. However,&nbsp;a&nbsp;political row has erupted as the inauguration date for the new building draws closer.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The new parliament building</strong></h2>

<p>The new parliament building is&nbsp;'just next door' to the existing building. The old building is almost 100 years old. It is a Heritage Grade-1 building.</p>

<p>Government of India's website on the Central Vista project underlines the need for a new parliament building.</p>

<p>"Over the years, the parliamentary activities and the number of people working therein and visitors have increased manifold...the new constructions and modifications have been done in an ad-hoc manner. For example, two new storeys constructed in 1956 over the outer circular part of the building hid the dome of the Central Hall and changed the facade of the original building. Further, the coverings of Jaali windows have reduced the natural light in the halls of two houses of the Parliament. Therefore, it is showing signs of distress and over-utilization and is not able to meet the current requirements in terms of space, amenities and technology," says the website</p>

<p>The new parliament building is in the shape of a triangle as opposed to the current building which is circular in shape. This, says Indian Government, ensures 'optimum space utilization'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Parliament building" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a5e522ea-2d88-4ee9-a446-c71b0886a38f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pariament%20building.jpg" /></p>

<p><em>(Image: Government of India)</em></p>

<p>"The present building was never designed to accommodate a bicameral legislature for a full-fledged democracy," says the government website.</p>

<p>The number of MPs is unaltered from 545. The freeze on the maximum number of MPs is only till 2026. If the number of MPs increases, more space would be needed for seating arrangements.</p>

<h2><strong>If new building solves issues, what's the problem?</strong></h2>

<p>Opposition parties in India have been alleging that there was no need to hastily spend millions to construct the new building when the country had other pressing matters. BBC reports that the cost of constructing the new building has come to 9.7 billion rupees ($117.1 million, £94.2 million).</p>

<p>PM Modi has lauded the project many times and has said that this would be the first parliament building 'built by Indians'. The opposition has been arguing that instead of constructing a new structure altogether, it was still possible to make improvements in current building to address the issues faced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There have also been allegations from the Opposition that the new building was an attempt to diminish the symbolism of the current one in which independent India's constitution was adopted. The BJP government is often perceived by many in political circles as following a religious agenda, something Indian constitution scoffs at as it maintains that religion and governance should be separate. BJP denies all such allegations.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-parliament-building-centre-releases-pics-check-opening-date-cost-all-you-need-to-know-554361">New Parliament building: Centre releases pics, check opening date, cost &amp; all you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>The inauguration date of the new parliament is May 28. It is also the birth anniversary of VD Savarkar, a figure connected with India's freedom struggle but one who elicits mixed opinions across the country's political spectrum.</p>

<p>Another point raised by the opposition is that the President of India Droupadi Murmu should be inaugurating the new parliament building. They argue as the President of India is a constitutional&nbsp;post that outranks a prime minister, she should be inaugurating the parliament, the highest lawmaking body in the land. Inauguration by PM Modi is being seen by the opposition as his attempt to make a political statement. India will have its general elections next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has voiced the party's displeasure.</p>

<p>"The parliament of India is the supreme legislative body of the Republic of India, and the President of India is its highest constitutional authority. She alone represents government, opposition, and every citizen alike," Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Inauguration of the new parliament building by her will symbolise [the] government's commitment to democratic values and constitutional propriety," his tweet read.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu is not being invited for the inauguration of the new Parliament Building.<br />
<br />
The Parliament of India is the supreme legislative body of the Republic of India, and the President of India is its highest Constitutional authority.<br />
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2/4</p>
— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) <a href="https://twitter.com/kharge/status/1660502434664394752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time of publishing the story, nineteen opposition parties had decided to boycott the inauguration of the new parliament building. This may mean that on the inauguration day, there would be near-zero participation from the Opposition.</p>

<p>Some of the parties which&nbsp;have decided to boycott the event are the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the Left, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), &nbsp;Janata Dal-United (JDU), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Samajwadi Party, Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena faction.</p>

<h2>'They can decide'</h2>

<p>Amit Shah, India's Home Minister and powerful ally&nbsp;of&nbsp;PM Modi reportedly declined to comment on the backlash from the opposition and has said that decision to attend the ceremony was their own.</p>

<p>"We have invited everyone. They can decide according to their wisdom," said Shah. He was quoted by news outlet NDTV.</p>

<p>However, the opposition has received criticism from the government ranks. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday accused the Congres lacked &nbsp;"national spirit and sense of pride" in India's progress. He drew attention to former PMs from the Congress party inaugurating&nbsp;the annexe building and laying&nbsp;the foundation of the parliament library.</p>

<p>"If your head of government can inaugurate the Parliament annexe and library, then why can't the head of the government of this time do? It's as simple as that," he said as quoted by NDTV.</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate new parliament building on May 28. The new building will soon be the seat of the highest legislative body of largest democracy in the world.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate new parliament building on May 28. The new building will soon be the seat of the highest legislative body of largest democracy in the world. The government headed by PM Modi intends for the new parliament building to be centre of legislative activity rather than the current colonial-era building. However, a political row has erupted as the inauguration date for the new building draws closer. The new parliament building The new parliament building is 'just next door' to the existing building. The old building is almost 100 years old. It is a Heritage Grade-1 building. Government of India's website on the Central Vista project underlines the need for a new parliament building. "Over the years, the parliamentary activities and the number of people working therein and visitors have increased manifold...the new constructions and modifications have been done in an ad-hoc manner. For example, two new storeys constructed in 1956 over the outer circular part of the building hid the dome of the Central Hall and changed the facade of the original building. Further, the coverings of Jaali windows have reduced the natural light in the halls of two houses of the Parliament. Therefore, it is showing signs of distress and over-utilization and is not able to meet the current requirements in terms of space, amenities and technology," says the website The new parliament building is in the shape of a triangle as opposed to the current building which is circular in shape. This, says Indian Government, ensures 'optimum space utilization'. (Image: Government of India) "The present building was never designed to accommodate a bicameral legislature for a full-fledged democracy," says the government website. The number of MPs is unaltered from 545. The freeze on the maximum number of MPs is only till 2026. If the number of MPs increases, more space would be needed for seating arrangements. If new building solves issues, what's the problem? Opposition parties in India have been alleging that there was no need to hastily spend millions to construct the new building when the country had other pressing matters. BBC reports that the cost of constructing the new building has come to 9.7 billion rupees ($117.1 million, £94.2 million). PM Modi has lauded the project many times and has said that this would be the first parliament building 'built by Indians'. The opposition has been arguing that instead of constructing a new structure altogether, it was still possible to make improvements in current building to address the issues faced. There have also been allegations from the Opposition that the new building was an attempt to diminish the symbolism of the current one in which independent India's constitution was adopted. The BJP government is often perceived by many in political circles as following a religious agenda, something Indian constitution scoffs at as it maintains that religion and governance should be separate. BJP denies all such allegations. Also Read | New Parliament building: Centre releases pics, check opening date, cost & all you need to know The inauguration date of the new parliament is May 28. It is also the birth anniversary of VD Savarkar, a figure connected with India's freedom struggle but one who elicits mixed opinions across the country's political spectrum. Another point raised by the opposition is that the President of India Droupadi Murmu should be inaugurating the new parliament building. They argue as the President of India is a constitutional post that outranks a prime minister, she should be inaugurating the parliament, the highest lawmaking body in the land. Inauguration by PM Modi is being seen by the opposition as his attempt to make a political statement. India will have its general elections next year. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has voiced the party's displeasure. "The parliament of India is the supreme legislative body of the Republic of India, and the President of India is its highest constitutional authority. She alone represents government, opposition, and every citizen alike," Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge wrote on Twitter. "Inauguration of the new parliament building by her will symbolise [the] government's commitment to democratic values and constitutional propriety," his tweet read. The President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu is not being invited for the inauguration of the new Parliament Building. The Parliament of India is the supreme legislative body of the Republic of India, and the President of India is its highest Constitutional authority. 2/4 — Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) May 22, 2023 × At the time of publishing the story, nineteen opposition parties had decided to boycott the inauguration of the new parliament building. This may mean that on the inauguration day, there would be near-zero participation from the Opposition. Some of the parties which have decided to boycott the event are the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the Left, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), Janata Dal-United (JDU), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Samajwadi Party, Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena faction. 'They can decide' Amit Shah, India's Home Minister and powerful ally of PM Modi reportedly declined to comment on the backlash from the opposition and has said that decision to attend the ceremony was their own. "We have invited everyone. They can decide according to their wisdom," said Shah. He was quoted by news outlet NDTV. However, the opposition has received criticism from the government ranks. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday accused the Congres lacked "national spirit and sense of pride" in India's progress. He drew attention to former PMs from the Congress party inaugurating the annexe building and laying the foundation of the parliament library. "If your head of government can inaugurate the Parliament annexe and library, then why can't the head of the government of this time do? It's as simple as that," he said as quoted by NDTV. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Explained | What is the row over India's new parliament building inauguration?

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