USA: on Indian democracy's 'health', Biden govt official says this, ahead of PM Modi's trip

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US, a top American official said that India is a vibrant democracy, and anybody can visit Delhi to see it for themselves.

John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House, made the comments on June 5, 2023. He said that the strength and health of democratic institutions will be part of the discussions between Modi and US President Joe Biden.

"Look, we never shy away. And you can do that with friends. You're supposed to do that with friends. You never shy away from expressing concerns that we might have with anyone around the world. But this (State) visit is really about advancing what is now and what we hope will be a deeper, stronger partnership and friendship going forward," Kirby said in response to a question.

"There are innumerable reasons why India certainly matters, not just bilaterally between the two of our nations, but multilaterally on very many levels. And the president is looking forward very much to having Prime Minister Modi here to talk about all those issues and to advance and deepen that partnership and that friendship," Kirby said.

(With PTI inputs)