The White House has described India as one of the United States’ strongest allies and highlighted the role of the relationship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in strengthening bilateral ties.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly, responding to a question on Prime Minister Modi’s 25 years in public life and his relationship with President Trump, said the partnership between the two leaders had bolstered India-US relations.
“India is one of the United States’ strongest allies, which has been bolstered by President Trump’s good relationship with Prime Minister Modi,” Kelly told IANS.
The statement came as Prime Minister Narendra Modi completed 25 years in public office on October 7. He first assumed office as Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2001 and became Prime Minister in 2014 following the Bharatiya Janata Party’s victory in the general election.
The White House statement comes against the backdrop of extensive India-US cooperation in areas including defence, technology, trade and strategic affairs.
While the two countries continue to engage on a range of bilateral issues, including trade and other policy matters, the White House response emphasised the personal relationship between the two leaders.
The statement did not announce any new bilateral initiative or policy decision.
Over successive administrations, India and the United States have expanded cooperation across defence and security, emerging technologies, trade and investment, and wider strategic issues. The two countries, however, do not have a formal mutual defence treaty.
Prime Minister Modi’s 25-year public career has also coincided with an expanded international engagement by India, including stronger partnerships with major powers and a greater focus on India’s role in the Global South.
The Prime Minister’s 25-year milestone drew congratulatory messages from leaders across the world. The Prime Minister’s Office said leaders from different regions highlighted his tenure, India’s development and bilateral relations with their respective countries.
Prime Minister Modi thanked the leaders for their greetings and reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral and strategic partnerships.
-IANS
