Describing the US-India relationship as of utmost significance, Kurt Campbell, the National Security Council’s coordinator for Indio-Pacific affairs, stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US has successfully elevated this critical bilateral partnership to a higher level.
During an interview with news agency ANI, Campbell expressed, “Together, we have effectively advanced this crucial bilateral relationship to a new level. To me, it is the most significant bilateral relationship globally, and it has clearly reached the pinnacle…”
Campbell acknowledged that it is no longer a secret that “India is among the most sought-after players on the international stage.” He further explained, “We witness numerous countries aiming to establish deeper and more substantial relationships in trade, technology, and people-to-people connections with India. I am pleased to say that the United States has taken significant steps to further develop the relationship between our two nations,” as stated in the ANI interview.
Campbell also emphasized that both countries have an extensive list of tasks to accomplish but now possess a greater sense of confidence in navigating them.
In response to a question about comments on democracy and human rights in India, Campbell expressed his view that Prime Minister Modi is one of the most effective, successful, and popular democratically elected leaders worldwide. He noted Modi’s popularity in India and his commitment to modernizing the country. Campbell pointed out that every society, including the US and India, faces challenges and problems, and it is not the US’s role to lecture other countries.
Addressing concerns among the Indian diplomatic community in the US, Campbell condemned the Khalistani attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco. He assured that US authorities are closely coordinating with Indian authorities and local law enforcement to ensure the safety and security of diplomats. Campbell emphasized the US’s commitment to creating a safe environment for the Indian diplomatic community to continue their work.
Discussing the internal deliberations between Presidents Biden and Modi, Campbell mentioned that President Biden suggested that for India to realize its full potential, it would need to set an example in various areas. He described the message as respectful and noted the inspirational level of trust and confidence between Modi and Biden, which will continue to foster their relationship.
Regarding India’s stance on the Russia-Ukraine war, Campbell commended India’s principled stands and Modi’s vocal condemnation of the devastating situation in Ukraine. He acknowledged the Indian concerns about Russia’s conduct in the war, which has caused immense tragedy.
Addressing the strategic ties with China, Campbell acknowledged the importance of the China dimension for both countries. However, he emphasized that it alone is insufficient to achieve the desired level of relationship. Campbell stated that numerous other elements have propelled the bilateral ties forward, with many of them being showcased during Prime Minister Modi’s visit.
In summary, Prime Minister Modi’s three-day state visit to the US, his first in nine years, comprised multiple meetings with President Joe Biden, an address to the US Congress, and interactions with top CEOs from Silicon Valley.
