John Kirby, the White House National Security Communications Advisor, highlighted the close and strengthening relationship between India and the US. He commended the Indian people for exercising their right to vote and having a voice in their government. Kirby wished them well during the ongoing elections, where over 969 million people are voting at a million polling stations to elect members of parliament from thousands of candidates.
Kirby emphasized the strengthening relationship between India and the US under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, especially during the last three years of the Biden administration. He mentioned initiatives launched during a State visit, collaboration on emerging technologies, and work with the Indo-Pacific quad, of which India is a part. Kirby also highlighted people-to-people exchanges and military cooperation between the two countries, praising Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.
When asked about President Joe Biden’s views on India and Japan being xenophobic, Kirby clarified that the president was making a broader point about American democracy’s vibrancy and inclusivity. He denied any characterization of India or Japan as xenophobic countries, emphasizing that they are both democracies with diverse populations. The White House official expressed gratitude for the partnership with India and commended Prime Minister Modi’s leadership in promoting peace and stability in Asia.
