PM Modi’s Visit Deepens Bonds Between Americans And Indians
Washington D.C, (USA) 22nd June 2023: The ancient Indian text ‘Krishna Yajurveda’ outlines the symbolic ‘Das Danam’ or ten donations, which consist of sesame seeds, ‘ghee’ (clarified butter), a gold coin, rice, and jaggery. According to the Vaikhanas Grihya Sutram of Krishna Yajurveda, it states that a person attains the state of ‘Drishta Sahasrachandro,’ which means they have witnessed the radiance of one thousand full moons at the age of eighty years and eight months, when they attain this milestone.
On Wednesday evening, Prime Minister Modi arrived at the White House, where he received a warm welcome from US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. Before entering the building, PM Modi engaged in conversation and posed for photographs with Joe Biden and Jill Biden. Joining the Prime Minister on his visit to the state dinner are National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and Deputy Chief of Protocol Aseem Vohra.The Indian flag and the US flag have been displayed in front of the White House to mark Modi’s official state visit. On the second day of his US state visit, PM Modi will hold a closed-door meeting with Joe Biden. Additionally, Modi is scheduled to address a joint session of the US Congress during his visit. First Lady Jill Biden emphasized the depth and expansiveness of the US-India partnership, which has strengthened over the years as the two countries collaborate in addressing global challenges. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the need for a “pipeline of talent” to sustain the growth momentum of India and the US.
During their bilateral meeting, President Biden and Prime Minister Modi are expected to announce various agreements related to defence cooperation and sales, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and investments in India by companies such as Micron Technology and other US firms. On Thursday, the prime minister will join President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden, along with several dignitaries, for the state banquet.
Following his momentous leadership in a historic event at the UN Headquarters in New York, where he commemorated the 9th International Day of Yoga, Modi made his way to Washington.The event was attended by UN officials, diplomats, and prominent personalities. At Joint Base Andrews in Washington, DC, amidst continuous rainfall, Modi received a guard of honour while wearing a raincoat. From the airport, the prime minister proceeded to the hotel where members of the Indian diaspora awaited him. Despite the rain, Indian diaspora members gathered at Freedom Plaza in Washington to welcome Modi. A variety of cultural programs, such as ‘Garba’ and other traditional folk dances, were exhibited by community members in front of the hotel where Modi is scheduled to stay.
Recognizing that Prime Minister Modi is a vegetarian, First Lady Jill Biden requested Chef Nina Curtis, who specializes in plant-based cuisine, to collaborate with the White House staff in creating a stunning vegetarian menu for the state dinner. She also mentioned that guests will have the option to include fish in their main course.
Carlos Elizondo, the White House Social Secretary, provided a preview of the State Dinner, highlighting the First Lady’s active involvement in every aspect of the event. Describing the setup, the First Lady explained that guests will enter a pavilion adorned with rich greens and tables adorned with saffron-coloured flowers, representing the colours of the Indian flag. Transparent sides will feature colours representing the strength and heritage of the United States, framing iconic landmarks such as the White House and the Washington Monument.
