US official praises India’s democracy amid Rahul criticism, says ‘Go see you…’

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Appreciating democracy in India, John Kirby, who is the strategic communications coordinator at the White House National Security Council, said on Tuesday, June 5 that under the rule of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, democracy in India is vibrant, and anyone arriving in New Delhi can witness it for themselves. He further said that his country never hesitates to “express any concerns we may have with anyone in the world”.

While interacting with reporters at the White House, Kirby was asked if the Biden administration was “concerned about the health of democracy in India.” The White House official responded by saying, “India is a vibrant democracy. Anyone who, you know, happens to go to New Delhi can see that for themselves. And certainly, I would expect the force and the health of democratic institutions are part of the discussion.

Notably, the US diplomat’s statement comes as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is on a tour of the United States, has harshly criticized the Indian government and the democratic condition in India. Launching his most vocal attack on Prime Minister Modi, Rahul said the Indian Prime Minister is dividing the country and not focusing on key issues such as unemployment and education. He also claimed that there is no press freedom in India.

US sees India as key partner on multiple levels, says White House official

“You saw this in Singapore’s Shangri-La, where (Defence) Secretary Lloyd Austin announced additional defense cooperation now that we are going to pursue with India. of economic exchanges between our two countries. India is a member of the Pacific Quad and a key friend and partner in Indo-Pacific security,” Kirby said.

“I could go on and on. There are countless reasons why India is certainly important, not just bilaterally between our two nations, but multilaterally on many levels. And the President looks forward to Prime Minister Modi be here to talk about all of these issues and to move forward and deepen this partnership and friendship,” Kirby added.

Posted: Jun 06, 2023 11:15 AM IST

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