PM Narendra Modi US Visit 2023 Live News Updates: After a crucial one-on-one bilateral discussion and press conference with United States President Joe Biden, and a speech to a joint sitting of the US Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a State Dinner held at the White House, his final engagement of the day.
The guest list for the State Dinner included India's billionaire couple Mukesh and Nita Ambani, former Chairperson and CEO of PepsiCo Indra Nooyi, Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen, and close to 100 other public figures.
At the US Congress, Modi touched upon issues such as trade, terrorism, global conflict, sustainable development, and women empowerment. However, he emphasised on India-US ties.
The speech was followed by a Congressional reception. Here are the full highlights of Modi's second address to the US Congress.
Fostering Democracy: Acknowledging President Biden's belief that theirs is a defining partnership of this century, Modi emphasized that their alliance serves a larger purpose. He stated, "Democracy, demography, and destiny give us that purpose."
Ukraine War & Terrorism: Modi commented on global conflicts, appearing to hint at Russia's invasion of Ukraine, said, "This is not an era of war but it is one of dialogue and diplomacy and we all must do what we can to stop the bloodshed and human suffering."
Uniting Cultures & Indian Community: PM Modi also highlighted the importance of the Indian diaspora in US and said, "There are millions here who have roots in India, some of them sit proudly in this chamber and there is one behind me," referring to Vice President Kamala Harris.
Women Empowerment: PM Modi specifically acknowledged the remarkable achievements of women and shared an inspiring story about President of India, Draupadi Murmu, who transcended a humble tribal background to assume the esteemed position of Head of State.
Sustainable Development: PM Modi highlighted significant initiatives, underlining India's dedication, including the fulfillment of India's commitments under the Paris Agreement and the promotion of renewable energy sources.
Fostering Collaboration: Modi further emphasised on the collaborative efforts between India and the US in diverse fields, including space exploration, maritime cooperation, scientific research, semiconductor technology, startup innovation, sustainability initiatives, technology development, trade, agriculture, finance, art, and artificial intelligence.
President Biden and PM Modi had previously addressed a press conference and took questions at the White House, where Biden said, "PM and I had a good discussion regarding democratic values."
Click here to read the full highlights of the Modi-Biden press conference.
Earlier during PM Modi had received a ceremonial welcome at the White House with a 19-gun-salute. Subsequently, Modi and Biden entered the White House for a one-on-one meeting in the Oval Office before a high-level bilateral dialogue, alongside their respective delegations, got underway.
Here are glimpses of the day so far:
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PM Modi Raises Toast to Joe, Jill Biden
During the State dinner at the White House, PM Modi raised a toast towards his hosts, and said, "Please join me in raising a toast. A toast to our wonderful hosts, President Biden and Jill Biden."
"A toast to good health, prosperity and the pursuit of happiness, liberty, equality and to the ever-lasting bonds of friendship between India and the United States," Modi added.
PM Modi Thanks Joe, Jill Biden at State Dinner
During the official State dinner at the White House, PM Narendra Modi said, "I want to thank US President Joe Biden for this wonderful dinner today. I would also like to thank First Lady Jill Biden for taking care of my visit to make it successful."
"This evening is made special by the presence of the people of our two countries, they are our most precious assets. When we met in Japan, for the Quad Summit, you mentioned a problem that you were facing, I am sure that you must have resolved that problem. I hope you were able to fit in everyone who wanted to come for the dinner tonight."
The Indian PM added, "Indian Americans have come a long way in the US and have always found a respectful place in America's Melting Pot."
‘Had a Wonderful Time With the PM’: President Joe Biden
During the official State dinner, US President Joe Biden said, "Jill and I have had a wonderful time with the Prime Minster today, during your truly productive visit."
"Tonight we celebrate the great bonds of friendship between India and the United States," Modi said.
'Stronger, More Expansive than Ever': Biden on US-India Ties
President Joe Biden tweeted and said, "The US-India partnership is stronger and more expansive than ever. At the root of that partnership is a deep connection between our people – ties of family, friendship, and shared values."
"Together, the United States and India – the world's oldest and largest democracies – are a combined force for global good," Biden added.