On 22 June 2023, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had the privilege of addressing a Joint Sitting of the US Congress, marking a significant milestone in the deepening of bilateral relations between India and the United States. This historic event took place at the invitation of prominent US Congressional leaders, including H.E. Mr. Kevin McCarthy, H.E. Mr. Charles Schumer, Senate Majority Leader; H.E. Mr. Mitch McConnell, Senate Republican Leader; and H.E. Mr. Hakeem Jeffries, House Democratic Leader. The distinguished presence of H.E. Ms. Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States, further underscored the importance of this momentous occasion.
Formal Welcome and Meetings
Upon his arrival at Capitol Hill, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded a warm and formal welcome by the Congressional Leaders. Subsequently, he held separate meetings with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and the Congressional Leaders. These meetings provided an invaluable opportunity to discuss and strengthen the existing ties between the two nations, fostering a deeper understanding and collaboration on various fronts.
Bipartisan Support for India-US Relations
In his address to the Joint Sitting of the US Congress, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sincere appreciation for the longstanding and robust bipartisan support extended by the US Congress towards the deepening of India-US relations. He acknowledged the significance of this support in advancing mutual interests and reinforcing the shared values that underpin the bilateral ties.
Vision for Elevating Bilateral Ties
During his address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the remarkable progress made in India-US bilateral relations and presented his vision for further elevating and enhancing these ties. He emphasized the immense opportunities that India, as a rapidly developing nation, offers to the world and outlined the strides made in various sectors such as technology, trade, defense, and renewable energy. The Prime Minister underscored the potential for collaboration in these areas, which would not only benefit both countries but also contribute to global peace, prosperity, and stability.
Enormous Progress and Opportunities
Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared with the US Congress the remarkable transformation that India has witnessed in recent years. He highlighted India’s achievements in areas such as economic growth, infrastructure development, digital innovation, and space exploration. The Prime Minister further emphasized the immense potential for investment in India and invited US businesses to explore the numerous opportunities available in sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, clean energy, and digital technologies. This engagement between the two nations holds the promise of fostering technological advancements, economic growth, and job creation.
Reception Hosted by Speaker McCarthy
As a testament to the growing bilateral ties, Speaker Kevin McCarthy hosted a grand reception in honor of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This event served as a platform to further strengthen the personal rapport between the leaders and provided an opportunity for greater interaction and exchange of ideas.
Joint Sitting of the US Congress: A Second Address
This momentous occasion marked the second time Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Joint Sitting of the US Congress. His previous address took place during his official visit to the United States in September 2016. The Prime Minister’s return to the US Congress reflects the significance and continuity of the India-US relationship, signifying the shared commitment to mutual growth, cooperation, and friendship.
