PM Modi to Indians in US: You are India’s greatest brand ambassadors
PTC News Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised the contributions of the Indian diaspora in the United States, referring to them as “Rashtradoots” or brand ambassadors of India. He made these remarks while addressing a gathering of Indian-Americans at the “Modi and US” event, held at the Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, New York, during his three-day visit to the country.
Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 13,000 people, PM Modi acknowledged the vital role the Indian community plays in representing India on the global stage. “I have always recognized the capabilities of the Indian community, even before I held any official position. For me, all of you have been strong brand ambassadors of India, which is why I call you ‘Rashtradoots’,” Modi told the audience.
He went on to highlight the strength and unity of India’s diversity, emphasizing the country’s ability to thrive despite its vast range of languages, cultures, and religions. “We belong to a country where there are dozens of languages and dialects, where all faiths and religions coexist, and yet we are moving forward united,” Modi added, underscoring the sense of solidarity that drives India forward.
The Prime Minister also took a moment to reflect on the significance of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, which his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), won for the third consecutive time, marking a historic achievement. He connected this victory to the growing global recognition of India’s democratic strength and progress, reinforcing the positive image that the Indian community abroad helps to project.
PM Modi’s speech at Nassau Coliseum marked the second day of his official visit to the United States, which began on September 21. Prior to the Long Island event, he arrived in Wilmington, Delaware—home to U.S. President Joe Biden—for bilateral talks and participation in the Quad Leaders’ Summit. During these discussions, Modi and Biden focused on strengthening India-U.S. relations and exchanged views on key regional and global issues.
At the Quad Summit, PM Modi joined President Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The leaders discussed a broad range of critical global matters, including maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, climate change, global health concerns, and the evolving geopolitical landscape.
The Quad meeting is part of India’s ongoing engagement with global powers to ensure peace, stability, and economic cooperation, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, a region of increasing strategic importance.
Prime Minister Modi’s three-day visit to the U.S. will culminate with a major address at the Summit of the Future during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Monday. This speech is expected to cover India’s role in shaping global governance and addressing pressing global challenges, further solidifying India’s standing as a major international player.