Our Bureau
New York, NY
In an exclusive interview with the Indian Eye, Rakesh Kaul, who is an Author, Business Leader, Contributor to Indian Culture and Arts and a prominent member of the Indian community in the US, talks about the importance of the Indian Prime Minister’s visit to the US. Excerpts of the interview:
This is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to the US in his third term. What is the importance of this trip as far as the Indian community here is concerned?
For the Indian diaspora, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US represents more than just continuity in leadership; it’s a pivotal moment to solidify India’s role on the world stage. As the only global leader with influence across all international blocs, Modi is seen as a force for good. The Indian community hopes he will confidently showcase India’s advancements. Yet, the key message must be that India’s reform agenda won’t slow down despite the recent electoral mandate. The visit should project that now is the time to accelerate, not settle into a static relationship between India and the US.
PM Modi will address a huge community event during the trip. What are the expectations of the community from the Prime Minister’s speech?
The Indian-American community expects PM Modi to address concerns relevant to them—such as visa reforms (especially H-1B) and investment opportunities. There is also a desire to hear about Modi’s vision for NRIs’ role in contributing to India, especially in terms of economic growth and its leadership in technology.
How will this trip help in giving a further boost to India-US relationship?
The community expects a strengthening of ties between the two nations. Community members expect announcements that will accelerate value creation for both sides in financial capital, human capital and technology capital. This trip is expected to give a further boost to the US-India relationship through increased collaboration in technology, defense, and trade. Areas like defense co-production (such as jet-engine technology) and climate change will be significant focal points. The Indian diaspora sees these developments as ways to enhance India’s global standing and create more opportunities for Indians abroad.
In recent months, there has been some friction between India and the US over the Nijjar case and Ukraine. Do you see these issues being resolved during Modi’s visit?
While the Nijjar case and India’s stance on Ukraine have created some friction, these issues are likely to be handled delicately. There is little expectation that they will be fully resolved during this visit. However, both countries are prioritizing broader strategic and economic interests, and are likely to downplay these differences to ensure continued cooperation. What is of some concern is America’s perceived role in the regimes in India’s neighborhood and its impact on India’s security. Special interest American groups who push agendas that seek to exploit divisions in India have created unnecessary negative vibes.
The Indian PM is travelling to the US in the middle of a contentious election. Do you see the possibility of Modi meeting or endorsing either of the two candidates — Trump or Harris?
Given the political sensitivities and the non-partisan stance Modi typically takes on foreign trips, it is unlikely that he will publicly endorse or meet any US presidential candidates. The focus of his visit will remain on enhancing India-US relations without delving into US domestic politics. And it is unnecessary since Indo US relationship now enjoys broad bi-partisan support in both India and the US.
