Rajnath Singh Discusses India-US Relations with Indian Diaspora in Washington

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the deep ties between India and the United States while addressing the Indian diaspora in Washington. Speaking on August 23, 2024, Singh stated that Indians possess integrity and cannot cheat others, highlighting the character of the Indian people.

During his address, Singh encouraged the Indian community in the US to work with honesty and maintain their dedication to both India and the United States. This dual commitment, he argued, would help foster a positive perception of Indians globally.

Singh outlined that India has long been a proponent of the concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, which translates to ‘the whole world is one family’, asserting that this ethos extends to all people, irrespective of caste, religion, or community.

He further declared that India and the US are natural allies, with a shared destiny aimed at creating peace, prosperity, and stability in the world. Singh referenced historical ties, suggesting that from the time of Columbus’s expedition, the bond between India and the US has been significant.

Focusing on India’s economic advancement, Singh pointed out that in the last decade, 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty, with the nation on track to become the third-largest economy by 2027. He remarked that India has transitioned from being part of the ‘Fragile 5’ to the ‘Stimulus 5’, thanks to reforms and efforts that have enhanced ease of doing business.

Singh also highlighted the resilience of the Indian economy during the Covid pandemic, claiming that the government’s proactive measures prevented significant economic decline. He noted that the number of start-ups in India has surged from approximately 500 to over 120,000 under the current administration.

As part of his visit, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to meet with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and Jake Sullivan, the US Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs, to discuss strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations.