India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised US congressmen for celebrating their country’s ties with India together, saying there needs to be a competition of ideas in the country, but people also need to unite to speak on behalf of the nation.
Modi’s remarks in his address to a joint session of the US Congress on Thursday came amid frequent attacks on his government by Rahul Gandhi during his foreign visits, whom the ruling BJP often regarded as the opposition leader looking to smear the country in a foreign country to attack the central government.
The Prime Minister’s statement was taken as an attack on the leader of Congress. Modi told US lawmakers, “I understand the debate about ideas and ideology. But I am pleased that you are gathered today to celebrate the bond between the world’s two great democracies, India and the United States.
“I’m happy to help where a strong bilateral consensus is needed. There will and must be an ideas’ competition at home. But we must also unite when we speak on behalf of our nation. And you’ve proven you can do it. Congratulations!”
U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy welcomed PM Modi in the U.S. Capitol. McCarthy said ” It was a privilege to welcome Prime Minister Modi to the U.S. Capitol, one of the greatest symbols of democracy in the world. I look forward to increased economic and national security ties between our two great nations.”
Speaking to US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Modi said, “As a citizen of a vibrant democracy, I can say one thing, Mr. Speaker: you have a tough job, I can relate to the battles of passion, persuasion and policy.
Rahul Gandhi was recently in the United States and was often critical of the way the Modi government was handling the country’s problems.
(With inputs from agencies)
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