Michigan's Indian-origin Democratic Congressman Thanedar has heaped praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him an extremely charismatic leader. He said the progress India has made over the past decade deserves recognition and respect in the United States.
On the Modi-Trump Equation
In an interview, Thanedar also spoke at length about the relationship between PM Modi and US President Donald Trump. He said the ties between President Trump and PM Modi are excellent, and credited Modi's charisma for his strong rapport with leaders across the world, which he said is why Modi commands respect on every major global stage.
A Grand Welcome on Every US Visit
Thanedar recalled that PM Modi received a grand welcome every time he visited New York, Houston or Washington DC. He specifically remembered the occasion when Joe Biden was President and PM Modi came to Washington on a state visit, an occasion on which Modi was honoured with a state dinner, one of the highest honours the United States extends to a visiting foreign leader.
Modi's Personal Request to Thanedar
Thanedar said he was personally present with PM Modi that day, and the two had a long conversation. According to him, Modi urged him to do a better job of explaining India's diversity and development to American lawmakers. Thanedar recalled Modi telling him, Tell the members of Congress what India is like. Recounting that conversation, Thanedar said, Different kinds of people live in India. They speak different languages, eat different food, but they all live together, and India keeps moving forward.
A Fresh Delegation of US Lawmakers to India
Thanedar said PM Modi wants American lawmakers to travel to India themselves and see its progress firsthand. He said he has already brought one delegation of US lawmakers to India in the past, and is now planning another visit with both Republican and Democratic lawmakers. Thanedar said, PM Modi invited me and asked me to bring members of Congress along so they can see India for themselves. He added that the purpose of the delegation is to show lawmakers the progress being made in India, to demonstrate how the lives of poor people have improved, and to explain how India became the world's fifth largest economy over the past 10 years.
India Set to Become Third Largest Economy, Should Counter China Together With US
Thanedar expressed confidence that India will become the world's third largest economy within just a few years, an achievement he said should be celebrated. On India-US relations, he said the two democracies should jointly face the challenges posed by China. He said, India and the United States should come together to counter China. Concluding the conversation, Thanedar said he shares an excellent relationship with PM Modi and wished him a long life, adding that he will continue working to strengthen ties between the two countries.
