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After US President Joe Biden referred to India as 'xenophobic' just two weeks ago, the White House has made a U-turn, calling India a 'vibrant democracy.' This shift in tone was evident in the remarks of John Kirby, the White House national security communications advisor, who responded to a question on India's ongoing general elections.
Kirby emphasized the strength of India's democracy, stating that 'there are not too many more vibrant democracies in the world than India.' He also acknowledged the importance of the India-US relationship, which he said has grown closer under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Kirby's comments come after Biden's earlier statement in which he had included India among countries that are 'xenophobic' and 'don't want immigrants.' However, Kirby clarified that Biden's remarks were intended to highlight the vitality of the US's own democracy, which welcomes immigrants and benefits from their contributions.
The White House's change in stance towards India is a significant development, reflecting the importance of the bilateral relationship between the two countries. It also underscores the value that the US places on democratic values and the role that India plays as a vibrant and active partner in the global community.
Source: After President Biden's ‘xenophobic’ remark, US makes U-turn, calls India ‘vibrant democracy’