Washington: The White House has described India as one of the United States’ strongest allies and credited the personal relationship between US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi with strengthening bilateral ties, as the Indian leader completed 25 years in public office.
“India is one of the United States’ strongest allies, which has been bolstered by President Trump’s good relationship with Prime Minister Modi,” White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told IANS on Wednesday, local time.
The statement came in response to a question from IANS seeking the White House’s assessment of PM Modi’s 25 years in public life and his relationship with US President Donald Trump.
PM Modi completed the milestone on October 7, marking 25 years since he first assumed office as Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2001.
White House Highlights Modi-Trump Relationship
The White House response placed particular emphasis on the personal relationship between PM Modi and President Trump, even as India and the United States continue to navigate differences over trade and other policy issues.
The statement did not announce any new bilateral initiative or policy decision.
PM Modi served as Gujarat Chief Minister from October 7, 2001, until May 2014, when he became India’s Prime Minister following the Bharatiya Janata Party’s victory in the general election.
India-US Ties Span Defence, Technology and Trade
India and the United States have developed extensive cooperation in defence, technology, trade and strategic affairs under successive administrations, although the two countries do not have a formal mutual defence treaty.
PM Modi’s tenure has also been marked by an expanded international profile for India, with the government pursuing greater diplomatic engagement, stronger relations with major powers and a prominent role for India in the Global South.
World Leaders Congratulate PM Modi on 25 Years in Public Office
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked 25 years of continuous service as the head of government on Wednesday, leaders from around the world congratulated him on the milestone and praised his leadership.
The milestone was described as a “rare achievement in any democracy” and a “powerful testament” to the confidence that the people of India have placed in him.
PM Modi thanked world leaders for their warm wishes and expressed readiness to continue strengthening cooperation.