US Vice President Vance Commends PM Modi, Envies His Popularity

Jaipur, April 22 (NationPress) US Vice President J D Vance on Tuesday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, noting that the Indian leader's popularity is something that many politicians would find enviable.

"I told Prime Minister Modi last night - he has approval ratings that would make me jealous," Vance expressed during his visit to Jaipur.

Commending PM Modi's negotiating prowess, Vance characterized him as a "very tough negotiator" who vigorously advocates for India's commercial interests. "I've seen firsthand how strongly he defends Indian industry. The US and India will advance together through mutual cooperation across various sectors," he asserted.

Reiterating the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, Vance underscored the significance of the US-India partnership. "The 21st century will be shaped by the strength of this relationship. President Trump aims to rebalance global trade so that the US, along with allies like India, can construct a brighter future," he mentioned.

Reflecting on the evolving stance of Washington towards New Delhi, Vance pointed out that the current US administration avoids a patronizing tone. "In the past, Washington often approached Prime Minister Modi with preachiness and condescension," he remarked. "Previous administrations regarded India as merely a source of cheap labor while criticizing a government that is arguably the most popular in the democratic world."

On trade relations, Vance called for fairness and mutual advantage. "President Trump and I respect Prime Minister Modi for being a tough negotiator. We don’t blame him for defending Indian industries. Instead, we question why past American leaders didn’t do the same for our workers," he stated. Expressing hope for ongoing bilateral trade discussions, he noted, "We’re making good progress on the terms of reference for a trade agreement."

In terms of defense cooperation, Vance highlighted the strengthening strategic partnership between the two nations. "In defense, our countries maintain a close relationship. We can co-develop advanced military platforms," he mentioned, while also welcoming India’s recent modifications to its nuclear liability laws — a crucial step toward deeper nuclear collaboration.

Vance also took a lighthearted moment to share about his wife, Usha, stating, "She’s a bigger celebrity than I am in India."

During his address, Vance contrasted India with other nations he has visited. "In many countries, there’s a uniformity — a desire to mimic the rest of the world. But not in India. Here, there’s a vibrancy, a sense of infinite potential. Life is becoming richer. New homes and buildings are emerging, and there’s a deep pride in being Indian," he observed.

The Vice President noted that this is his first visit to India, the homeland of his wife’s parents. "I’ve been captivated by the beauty of India’s ancient architecture and the richness of its history and traditions. However, equally impressive is India’s forward-looking vision. This combination of heritage and ambition gives India its unique energy," he remarked.

Earlier in the day, Vance visited Jaipur’s Amer Fort with his wife Usha, their sons Vivek and Ivan, and daughter Mirabel. The family arrived at the historic fort by jeep and were welcomed by two elephants — Chanda and Pushpa — at Jaleb Chowk. Traditional folk performances, including Kachhi Ghodi, Ghoomar, and Kalbelia dances, enriched the festive welcome.

Later, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari met the Vance family.

The US Vice President Vance is on a four-day visit to India. After arriving in New Delhi on Monday, he toured the Akshardham temple and held discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the evening, before traveling to Jaipur.