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| Narednra Modi and Joe Biden Image Credit: Google |
US President
Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a joint press conference
at the White House, where they discussed the significance of the US-India
relationship.
While
highlighting the need for an enduring partnership, both leaders faced direct
questions about alleged human rights abuses under Modi's leadership.
However, Human
rights concerns were faintly addressed, the press conference focused mainly on
the strength of bilateral ties.
Democratic Values and Diversity:
Biden
emphasized the discussion on democratic values, stating that both countries
share a commitment to diversity, culture, and robust debate.
He asserted
that maintaining democracies requires upholding human rights and values.
Modi's Response:
When questioned
about rights groups accusing his government of restricting freedom of
expression and discriminating against minorities, Modi expressed surprise at
the criticism.
He defended
India's commitment to democracy, stating that it transcends caste, creed,
religion, and gender, with no room for discrimination.
A "Defining Relationship":
During Modi's
visit, Biden referred to the bond between India and the US as a "defining
relationship of the 21st century."
Both leaders
recognized the importance of a strong partnership in addressing concerns,
Particularly:
- Stability in the Indo-Pacific region and,
- China's growing influence.
Areas of Cooperation:
Following their
meeting, Biden and Modi pledged to enhance cooperation in:
- Trade,
- Supply Chain Protection,
- Emerging Technologies,
- Climate Change,
- Defense, and
- Other areas of strategic partnership.
They have also acknowledged
the significance of peace and security in the Indo-Pacific for the world.
Importance of the Visit:
Modi's state
visit, with the rare distinction of a state dinner and an address to Congress,
highlights the Biden administration's recognition of India's role and the
importance of the bilateral relationship.
This honor has
only been bestowed upon one other world leader during Biden's presidency.
Human Rights Concerns, Congressional and Obama’s Voices:
Despite the
warm welcome, concerns regarding human rights were raised by 75 legislators
from Biden's Democratic Party.
Progressives
such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, and Rashida Tlaib called for a
boycott of Modi's address to Congress.
Former US
President Barack Obama also expressed concerns about the rights of the Muslim
minority in India.
Protests and Boycott Calls:
Protesters
outside the White House reminded Biden and Modi of India's alleged far-right
Hindu extremist ideology and the hostile environment it creates for minorities,
particularly Muslims.
US lawmakers
Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced their
decision to boycott Modi's address to Congress, citing concerns over human
rights abuses.
Sweeping Agreements and Defense Partnership:
The visit was
accompanied by a list of expected agreements on:
- Semiconductors,
- Critical Minerals,
- Technology,
- Space Cooperation,
- Defense, and
- Trade.
The US hoped
for India to reduce its reliance on Russian weapons exports.
Both leaders
discussed the humanitarian impact of Russia's war in Ukraine and emphasized the
importance of dialogue and diplomacy.
Bilateral Collaborations and Announcement of Agreements:
During the
visit, General Electric Co (GE) and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd signed an
agreements.
a. Agreement on Jet Engines:
According to
this Agreement US will produce jet engines in India for Indian military
aircraft.
b. Maritime Agreement:
Maritime
agreement would allow US Navy ships to utilize Indian shipyards for repairs.
c. Different Plans and Agreements:
- Micron Technology revealed plans to invest up to $825 million in a chip assembly and test facility in Gujarat.
- Additionally, India agreed to purchase MQ-9B 'Reaper' and high-altitude long-endurance drones from General Atomics, worth over $3 billion.
- India also joined the US-led Artemis Accords on space exploration and committed to a joint mission with NASA to the International Space Station in 2024.
Summing Up:
Prime Minister
Narendra Modi's state visit to the US highlighted the significance of the
bilateral relationship between India and the United States.
While human
rights concerns were raised, both leaders emphasized the importance of
democratic values, diversity, and a shared commitment to peace and security in
the Indo-Pacific.
The visit
yielded substantial agreements and laid the groundwork for future collaborations
in various strategic areas.
(Courtesy:
Al-Jazeera, Dawn)
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