Prime Minister Narendra Modi has wrapped up a significant three-day visit to the United States, leaving a lasting impression on the global stage through a series of high-profile engagements and diplomatic discussions. From September 21 to 24, 2024, Modi’s itinerary was packed with meetings with world leaders, a powerful address at the United Nations, and an energetic rally with the Indian diaspora, all aimed at elevating India’s role in global affairs.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties at the Quad Leaders’ Summit
Modi’s visit coincided with the Quad Leaders’ Summit, where he met with leaders from the United States, Australia, and Japan. The summit emphasized the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific region and sought to address pressing global challenges, including climate change and regional security. Modi’s participation underscored India’s commitment to multilateralism and its strategic partnerships with like-minded nations.
Engagements with Global Leaders
On the sidelines of the summit, Prime Minister Modi held fruitful discussions with several heads of state. He met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, reiterating India’s supportive stance on a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Modi expressed India’s “clear, consistent, and constructive” approach, emphasizing diplomacy and dialogue. This marked their third meeting in recent months, showcasing India’s proactive engagement in international conflict resolution.Further enhancing diplomatic ties, Modi met with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State of the Vatican City. These discussions were pivotal in reinforcing India’s commitment to fostering relationships with diverse nations.
Address at the United Nations Summit of the Future
One of the highlights of Modi’s visit was his address at the UN Summit of the Future. Speaking on behalf of one-sixth of humanity, he called for a human-centric approach to global development, focusing on sustainable practices and digital inclusivity. “India will continue to work in thought, words, and deeds to protect the rights of all humanity,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for cooperation to eradicate poverty and bridge the digital divide. Modi highlighted India’s achievements, such as lifting 250 million people out of poverty, and offered to share India’s success story with the Global South. He stressed the importance of reforming global institutions to reflect current realities and called for a collective approach to address terrorism, new technologies, and emerging threats.
Roundtable with Tech CEOs
Modi also hosted a roundtable with top tech CEOs from American companies, including Sundar Pichai of Google and Arvind Krishna of IBM. They discussed cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and semiconductors, emphasizing India’s role as a growing technology hub. Modi invited these leaders to collaborate with India, showcasing the country’s innovation-friendly policies and market opportunities.
Celebrating the Indian Diaspora
A significant aspect of Modi’s visit was the enthusiastic gathering of the Indian diaspora at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, New York. Approximately 16,000 attendees, many traveling overnight from various corners of the US, eagerly came to witness the “Modi Magic.” The atmosphere was electric, filled with excited faces and chants of “Modi, Modi.” Representatives from prominent media outlets, including IndoUS Tribune, were also in attendance, highlighting the event’s significance and long awaited charm. During his address, Modi expressed his gratitude to the diaspora, leading the crowd in chants of “Bharat Mata ki Jai.” He highlighted the growing ties between India and the US, emphasizing the community’s positive impact across various sectors. The Prime Minister also underscored the significance of the BJP-led Central government’s return to power, with slogans of “Ab ki Baar, Modi Sarkar” resonating throughout the venue.
The gathering featured a cultural program showcasing the diversity of Indian heritage, further energizing the audience before Modi took the stage. This event, organized by the community, highlighted the strength of the Indian diaspora, which numbers around 4.5 million in the United States, and their role as a vibrant living bridge between the two nations.
Conclusion of a Milestone Visit
As Modi concluded his visit, he emphasized India’s commitment to becoming the third-largest economy in the world while fostering peace and stability on the global stage. His engagements reinforced India’s growing influence and commitment to collaboration, sustainability, and innovation. The three-day visit not only showcased India’s diplomatic efforts but also served as a platform for Modi to project a vision of an inclusive and prosperous future for all. As he returned to India, the Prime Minister carried with him a renewed sense of purpose in advancing India’s interests and promoting global peace.