Watch: A grand welcome awaits PM Modi in USA

Appreciating Indian community’s “immense contributions” to the country’s economy, education and culture, several leaders from the United States have said that they are eagerly looking forward to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to New York and Washington this week.

PM Modi will begin his Official State Visit to USA from New York where he will lead the celebrations of the International Day of Yoga at the United Nations Headquarters on June 21.

Prime Minister Modi will thereafter travel to Washington, where he will receive a ceremonial welcome at the White House on June 22, and meet US President Joe Biden to continue their high-level dialogue. A state dinner hosted by US President and First Lady Jill Biden in honour of Prime Minister is scheduled for the same evening.

“The upcoming visit will affirm the deep and close partnership between the United States and India and the warm bonds of family and friendship that link Americans and Indians together,” White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said last month.

Ahead of the visit, American politician and attorney Susan Bysiewicz, currently serving as Connecticut Lieutenant Governor, said that she remains confident that PM Modi’s landmark visit will pave way for a more stronger and closer partnership between both countries.

At the invitation of Congressional leaders, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy and Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer, Prime Minister Modi will also address a Joint Sitting of the US Congress on June 22.

Brian Fitzpatrick, a former FBI Special Agent and Federal Prosecutor who is now the Republican Representative from Pennsylvania, said that he is “thrilled” and looking eagerly forward to PM Modi’s US visit as the relationship between India and US is “consequentional” and of “utmost importance”.

US Senator from Mississippi, Cindy Hyde-Smith said that Prime Minister Modi’s visit is an opportunity to deepen collaboration in areas such as trade, defence, technology and healthcare which will shape the future trajectory of India-US relations.

Last week, Buddy Carter, who represents Savannah and Coastal Georgia in the United States Congress, said that he is excited to welcome Indian Prime Minister to the Capitol.

“The US-India relationship is one of the most important in the world,” said Carter.

“Grateful for the warmth of your welcome. The India-US partnership will keep growing for the benefit of our peoples,” External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar tweeted in reply to Carter’s message on Sunday.

In addition to the official engagements, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to have several curated interactions with leading CEOs, professionals, and other stakeholders. He will also meet members of the Indian diaspora.

On June 23, Prime Minister will be jointly hosted at a luncheon by US Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Bilnken.