Although a US official did not disclose whether human rights issues were raised in the Biden-Modi discussions, senior US officials had previously met with Sikh advocates to address their concerns
On September 22, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a large gathering of Indian Americans in Long Island, New York, emphasizing the vital role of the Indian diaspora ahead of the US presidential election on November 5, 2024, reported hindustantimes.com.
Modi’s speech, delivered at a packed venue adorned with Indian cultural performances, centered on the significance of democracy and the interconnectedness of the US and India in upholding democratic values.
Without directly addressing the contest between US Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, Modi underscored the importance of the upcoming year for global democracy. “This year, 2024, is very important for the entire world,” he remarked. “On one hand, conflicts are raging between several countries, and on the other, democracy is being celebrated worldwide. India and America are together in this celebration of democracy.”
The US is home to approximately 4.5 million people of Indian descent, according to the 2020 US Census. With this significant population, Modi’s message highlighted the political and cultural influence of Indian Americans in the US.
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During his US visit, Modi also met with President Joe Biden in Delaware, where discussions spanned both bilateral relations and broader global alliances
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Modi participated in the Quad talks, alongside leaders from the US, Australia, and Japan, signaling a continued commitment to international cooperation
Though Modi did not touch on specifics of the election, the anticipation of a meeting between Modi and Trump looms. Meanwhile, Harris’s candidacy draws attention to her own Indian heritage, adding a unique dynamic to the race.
Modi’s address followed his third-term swearing-in as India’s Prime Minister earlier this year. His victory, though hard-fought, reaffirmed his leadership in the world’s most populous democracy. However, the election outcome raised challenges, including navigating coalition politics after a campaign often shaped by religious discourse.
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