Is This the Moment of 'Great Opportunity' in US-India Relations?

Washington, June 3 (NationPress) Usha Vance, the Second Lady of the United States, expressed that we are currently in a period of vast potential in the bilateral relationship with India. She enthusiastically recounted her recent trip to India with her husband, Vice-President J.D. Vance, and their three children, who found the experience to be 'mindblowing'.

During a rare public interview at an event organized by the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, she shared her heartfelt observations about the connection her children formed with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who they viewed as a grandfather figure.

"This is a time of great opportunity. I believe if my husband were present, he would echo my sentiments," she stated when asked about her perspective on the bilateral ties.

She noted that the relationship between the US and India has had its ups and downs but emphasized that the next four years hold promise. With a strong Indian-American population in the US and a wealth of individuals in India familiar with American culture, the potential for collaboration is immense.

"While we were visiting, I was overwhelmed by the number of people expressing their love for our country and their desire for a closer relationship. These personal connections are crucial for the future of our ties," she added.

The Vance family visited India in April, marking the first vice-presidential trip in 13 years, following Vice-President Joe Biden's visit in 2013 during the Obama administration.

Previous Vice-Presidents, including Mike Pence and Kamala Harris, who has Indian roots, did not make such a trip.

"It truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for us. My children had never been to India before, and given the pandemic, they had only learned about this country through stories, food, and family ties. Seeing it all firsthand was astonishing for them. For J.D. and me, it was equally special," Usha Vance remarked.

"We had the chance to witness some of the most breathtaking sights in northern India. We eagerly anticipate our next trip, aiming to explore the regions where my family originates. Each moment was more incredible than the last—the delicious cuisine, the peacocks we spotted everywhere, and witnessing the Taj Mahal at sunrise—what an experience! Meeting the Prime Minister was an exceptional highlight," she noted.

By this point, the Vances had already met Prime Minister Modi for the first time at an AI summit in Paris in February.

"They were a bit sleep-deprived in Paris when they first saw him, and immediately categorized him as a grandfather figure. They adore him! Their bond was further strengthened when he gifted our five-year-old a birthday present. When we visited his residence, they rushed up to him and embraced him. He was incredibly kind and generous," Usha Vance expressed.