NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday received a grand welcome from the Indian diaspora as he arrived in the United States for a two-day visit on Wednesday (local time). Braving harsh winter conditions, members of the Indian community gathered outside Blair House to greet him, expressing their excitement over his visit.
PM Modi’s visit comes at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, marking his first trip to the US since Trump assumed office for a second term. The two leaders are set to hold discussions aimed at further strengthening the India-US partnership. Upon his arrival at Joint Base Andrews, Modi was received by India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and other officials.
A member of the Indian diaspora said, “…We have people on crutches, and they have braved this great winter and snow…we are excited to welcome PM Modi to America.” Another community member, Baburaj from Virginia, remarked, “I live in Virginia, I belong to Telangana. Today, the Indian diaspora is so excited…All Indians are excited to see him.”
Srinivas, another attendee, noted the significance of PM Modi’s visit and said, “We are here, Indian-American diaspora, all the people are here to welcome Prime Minister Modi. We are so excited that the US gave the highest priority to our Prime Minister. He is coming here for all 1.4 billion population.”
During his visit, Modi will be staying at Blair House, the official guest lodging for dignitaries visiting the White House. The historic residence, located across from the White House, has hosted presidents, royalty, and global leaders, earning its reputation as “the world’s most exclusive hotel.”
Before departing for the US, PM Modi expressed optimism about the visit and said, “Although this will be our first meeting following his historic electoral victory and inauguration in January, I have a very warm recollection of working together in his first term in building a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership between India and the US.”
He said that the trip presents an opportunity to build on past collaborations and deepen bilateral ties.