US Vice President J.D. Vance heaped laudatory comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership while on a visit to Jaipur on Tuesday, terming the Indian leader's immense popularity as one that would envy most politicians.
"I explained to Prime Minister Modi last evening - he has approval ratings I am jealous of," Vance said, eulogizing Modi's across-the-board popularity.
Vance also complimented Modi's tough bargaining ability, describing him as a "very tough negotiator" who is adamant when defending India's business interests. "I've seen personally how vigorously he asserts Indian industry. The US and India will go forward together by working together in many areas," Vance further stated.
Reiterating the United States' commitment towards a free, open Indo-Pacific, Vance highlighted the importance of the US-India relationship. He said, "The 21st century will be shaped by the strength of this relationship," and indicated President Trump's initiative to reorder global trade in such a manner that the US, along with allies such as India, may create a healthier future.
Comparing the path Washington has evolved in its relation to India over time, Vance remarked on an obvious change of tone. "Far too frequently in the past, Washington spoke to Prime Minister Modi in a tone of preachiness and even condescension," he stated, drawing a contrast with the present administration's more deferential position. Vance noted that prior US administrations had tended to think of India only as a place that provided cheap labor, while faulting the leadership of a government that may well be the most popular in the democratic world.
Regarding trade relations, Vance stressed that the key was fairness and mutual gain, praising Modi for standing up for Indian industries. "President Trump and I admire Prime Minister Modi for being a strong bargainer. We don't fault him for standing up for Indian industries. Instead, we wonder why previous American leaders failed to do the same for our workers," Vance said, optimistic about the developments of the two countries' trade negotiations.
Vance also emphasized the increasing defense cooperation between the US and India, citing their strategic alliance. "In defense, our countries have a close relationship. We can co-develop sophisticated military platforms," he stated, with India's recent modifications to its nuclear liability law being an important step in enhancing nuclear cooperation between the two nations.
Tongue-in-cheek, Vance added a note of humor by referring to his wife, Usha, as "She's a bigger celebrity than I am in India."
Looking back on his trip, Vance compared India to other countries he had traveled to, observing the distinctive energy of India. "In most countries, there's a sameness — an attempt to emulate the rest of the world. But not India. Here, there's a vitality, a feeling of limitless possibility. Life is becoming more affluent. New houses and buildings are going up, and there's a profound pride in being Indian," he noted.
This marked Vance’s first visit to India, the homeland of his wife’s parents. "I’ve been captivated by the beauty of India’s ancient architecture and the richness of its history and traditions. But just as impressive is India’s forward-looking vision. This combination of heritage and ambition gives India its unique energy," Vance added.
In the morning, Vance and his family toured Jaipur's Amer Fort, where they were greeted with great hospitality by two elephants, Chanda and Pushpa, at Jaleb Chowk. Cultural folk shows like Kachhi Ghodi, Ghoomar, and Kalbelia dances also complemented the celebratory mood. The Vance family also greeted Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari.
Vance has arrived in India for a four-day visit. Currently, he has arrived in New Delhi on Monday, and in addition to visiting the Akshardham temple, he met with Prime Minister Modi. After that, he left for Jaipur.
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