Indo-Pacific security, defence, technology, energy and

US President Joe Biden initially welcomed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an informal dinner at the White House as part of a state visit.

Along with First Lady Jill Biden, Joe Biden also wants to tour the US Government House with Modi. The official talks between the two heads of government will follow today at Government House in Washington, as well as a celebratory state banquet. Modi is in the US for several days as a guest of the country and is also scheduled to address both chambers of the US Congress.

Unlike regular business visits, state visits are accompanied by special formal pomp, such as a state banquet. Modi is the third foreign guest to receive this honor during the Biden term. French President Emmanuel Macron paid a state visit to the United States last December. This was followed by South Korean President Yoon Sok-yul at the end of April.

Topics of the visit include cooperation for the security of the Indo-Pacific region and cooperation in defense, technology, energy and space. The Biden administration’s foreign policy is largely focused on Asia and the Indo-Pacific. The United States is trying to counter China’s quest for power in the region. With around 1.4 billion people, India is the most populous country in the world and thus also the world’s largest democracy.