"PM Modi, Biden Elevated US-India Ties to New Heights: US Envoy Ahead of Trump’s Inauguration"

US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti emphasized the unprecedented progress in US-India relations, attributing it to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden. During his final visit to India on Sunday, Garcetti and his family met with PM Modi, highlighting record-breaking achievements in areas such as trade, defense, space collaboration, education, and investments.

In a heartfelt message shared on X, Garcetti wrote, "Had a great final visit with PM Modi with my family. It's clear that he and President Biden have raised our compelling and consequential US-India partnership to new heights—record visas, record trade, record defense collaboration, record space cooperation, record students, record investments, and so much more."

Garcetti extended his gratitude to PM Modi and the people of India for their hospitality, underscoring the enduring significance of the US-India partnership. “What was seen as unthinkable a generation ago will seem indispensable a generation from now, thanks to the work of these leaders and the people of our nations. Thank you, Prime Minister, and thank you to all Indians. It’s been a daily joy to help co-write this chapter with you,” he said.

Expanding US Presence in India
Garcetti also attended the inauguration ceremony of the new US Consulate office in Bengaluru on Friday, marking an expansion of the US presence in India. Speaking at the event, he described it as a commitment to deepen ties with India, particularly in Karnataka, a state known for its innovation and global influence.

"We are not beginning a new presence here in Karnataka but expanding our existing presence in this amazing nation. This reflects America's commitment to this great state and its capital city," Garcetti remarked.

He noted the historical depth of US-India relations, recalling the establishment of the second-ever US consulate in Kolkata in 1776, shortly after American independence. "Many Americans and even few Indians know that our second consulate in the world was in India. This demonstrates the significance of India to a young American nation," Garcetti said.

Milestones Achieved
The Bengaluru consulate marks the fifth US mission in India and the second-largest globally, with record-breaking contributions in visas, student exchanges, and military exercises. Garcetti highlighted the mission's growing significance, stating, “We’re breaking records every single year—record employees, record visas, record students, record military exercises, and record engagement from the seabed to space."

Garcetti’s visit underscores the robust partnership between the US and India, which continues to expand in scope and significance. As his tenure concludes, his remarks reflect optimism about the enduring impact of these strengthened ties on future generations.