The Indian Prime Minister’s visit to Washington was an opportunity for Narendra Modi to sign new agreements with Joe Biden. In a joint statement, the two men also called for respect ” territorial integrity and sovereignty of Ukraine “.
” A stronger, closer and more dynamic relationship than ever “, it is in these terms that Joe Biden described, on Wednesday, the ties which unite his country and India, reports our correspondent in New York, Loubna Anaki.
Alongside Narendra Modi, received with great fanfare at the White House, the American president welcomed a new chapter of cooperation. The two men announced the signing of numerous agreements in the military, technological and economic fields. For the Biden administration, it is a question of strengthening ties with an ally deemed crucial in the fight against the growing influence of China in the Indo-Pacific zone.
The strongest announcement on Thursday is the future manufacture in India of F-414 engines for fighter planes by the General Electric conglomerate. It is a partnership founder “, estimated Narendra Modi, synonymous with important transfers of American technology. India will also acquire American combat drones.
The issue of human rights
The Indian Prime Minister also addressed members of Congress. A speech not without hitches. Several elected officials from the Democratic left wing boycotted the session, denouncing ” Narendra Modi’s appalling human rights record “. In a press release, these elected officials write that human rights and the values of the United States must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency.
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Moreover, when questioned on this subject by a journalist, Narendra Modi, a Hindu nationalist, rejected the accusations of human rights violations and denied any religious discrimination in his country.
The Indian Prime Minister also gave his support to Ukraine, saying “ totally ready to support peace efforts in Ukraine, as the United States urges India to leverage its influence with Russia. “ We are totally ready to contribute in any way to restore peace in Ukraine, the Indian leader said.