Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the United States this weekend, where he will attend the Quad leaders' summit, address the "Summit of the Future" at the UN General Assembly, and meet with CEOs of major US companies. A key highlight of his visit will be an event called "Modi & US Progress Together" at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in New York, which has attracted over 25,000 registrations despite the venue's capacity of 15,000.
Modi’s outreach to the Indian diaspora has become a significant aspect of his foreign visits. Notably, in 2014, Modi addressed 20,000 Indian Americans at Madison Square Garden, and in 2019, he spoke to over 50,000 attendees at the "Howdy Modi" event in Houston, Texas.
Experts suggest that these gatherings serve multiple purposes, including enhancing Modi's global image and fostering connections with the Indian community abroad. The Indian diaspora, numbering nearly 5 million in the US, is recognized for its influence and economic contributions. Modi's engagements aim to activate the diaspora's identity, positioning them as vital players in lobbying, investment, and technology partnerships.
Strategic experts highlight that Modi’s outreach aligns with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) long-term foreign policy strategy to connect with Indian communities globally. This initiative not only strengthens bilateral ties but also contributes to India's diplomatic and economic goals.
Keywords