US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are scheduled to meet at the G7 Summit in Italy, as confirmed by the White House on Wednesday. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan highlighted their recent conversation where Biden congratulated Modi on his reelection for a third term as Prime Minister.
During a press briefing, Sullivan mentioned, “President Biden spoke with President Modi by phone while we were in Paris to congratulate him on the election outcome and his third term as Prime Minister.” He expressed expectation that Modi would attend the summit, pending formal confirmation from India, indicating an anticipated encounter between the two leaders. However, Sullivan noted the schedule remains flexible.
Regarding discussions on the alleged assassination attempt of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, Sullivan emphasized it would remain a continuing topic between New Delhi and Washington at senior levels. The US Justice Department had accused an Indian government employee of attempting to hire a hitman to assassinate Pannun, an act thwarted by US authorities. India has initiated a high-level investigation into the matter.
Prime Minister Modi’s participation in the G7 Summit in Italy marks his first international visit since commencing his third consecutive term. The summit will convene at the Borgo Egnazia resort in Italy’s Apulia region from June 13 to 15. Modi’s attendance holds significance following India’s active role as the recent G20 president, focusing on global consensus-building and elevating Global South priorities.
Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra affirmed Modi’s participation, highlighting the opportunity for India to engage with global leaders on crucial issues affecting both India and the Global South. This will be India’s 11th participation in the G7 Summit and Modi’s fifth consecutive attendance.
On the sidelines of the summit, Modi is expected to engage in bilateral meetings with G7 leaders, Outreach Countries, and international organizations. Their last meeting occurred during the COP28 Summit in Abu Dhabi last year, underscoring the ongoing diplomatic dialogue between the US and India.
