Free, open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific our priority: PM Modi at Quad Summit

Earlier, PM Modi met US President Joe Biden at the latter’s residence in Greenville, Delaware, and the two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen their bilateral relationship in areas of mutual interest.

They also exchanged views on global and regional issues, including the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.

Modi landed in Philadelphia late in the evening, kicking off his three-day visit to the United States.

Upon his arrival, Modi interacted with the members of the Indian diaspora outside the Philadelphia airport. Taking to his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Modi said the Indian community has distinguished itself in the USA, making a positive impact across diverse sectors.

Meanwhile, in a welcome message for the QUAD leaders, US President Joe Biden said these leaders aren’t just essential to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. “They’re friends of mine and the friends of our nation,” he said in a post on X. “I look forward to all we’ll accomplish in the Summit ahead,” Biden added.

The summit is being hosted by American President Joe Biden on September 21 in his hometown. India is expected to host the next Quad Summit in 2025.

Before setting out, PM Modi, via a statement, laid out his plans for the summit. “Today, I am embarking on a three day visit to the United States of America to participate in the Quad Summit being hosted by President Biden in his hometown Wilmington and to address the Summit of the Future at the UN General Assembly in New York,” he said.

PM Modi interact with the members of the Indian diaspora outside the Philadelphia airport. (X/@MEAIndia)

He added: “I look forward to joining my colleagues President Biden, Prime Minister Albanese and Prime Minister Kishida for the Quad Summit. The forum has emerged as a key group of the like-minded countries to work for peace, progress and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.”

The Prime Minister further said that his meeting with President Biden would allow the two countries to chalk out new pathways “to further deepen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership”. “I am eagerly looking forward to engaging with the Indian diaspora and important American business leaders, who are the key stakeholders and provide vibrancy to the unique partnership between the largest and the oldest democracies of the world,” he added.

At a time when two assassination attempts have been made at former US President Donald Trump, security has been stepped up for PM Modi’s visit.

The Indian Express has learnt that the US Secret Service has “enhanced” the security in and around the venues, where the PM will visit in Delaware and New York. This is also keeping in mind the threats from pro-Khalistan elements in the US. The Special Protection Group (SPG) and the US Secret Service are also coordinating the proximate security of Modi in New York, where he will address the Indian diaspora on September 22.

PM Modi’s full itinerary

📌 September 21

Quad leaders’ summit in Wilmington, Delaware: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States kicks off with his participation in the Quad Leaders’ Summit in Wilmington, Delaware. Hosted by US President Joe Biden, the summit will also feature Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the leaders will review the progress made by the Quad over the past year and set a roadmap for future cooperation, particularly in helping the Indo-Pacific region meet its development aspirations.

📌 September 22

The next day, Prime Minister Modi will address the Indian community, marking his third major speech to the diaspora in the US after previous appearances at Madison Square Garden in 2014 and SAP Center in San Jose in 2015. This address is set to be his largest in the US, with over 50,000 members of the Indian diaspora expected to attend.

The event will also feature prominent American leaders, including former President Donald Trump, as well as senior Democratic leadership and bipartisan Congressional representatives, reflecting the influence of the Indian community in US politics.

Following this community event, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to engage in a separate interactive session with US Congressional members before departing for New York.

📌 September 23

On September 23, Prime Minister Modi will participate in several key multilateral events in New York, starting with the United Nations Climate Action Summit, where he will highlight India’s efforts in combating climate change.

India’s leadership on climate issues, particularly through initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, is expected to be a focal point of his speech. Modi will also outline India’s expectations from the global community in addressing climate challenges.

Later that day, Modi will attend an event on Universal Health Coverage hosted by the UN Secretary-General. At this session, he is expected to showcase Ayushman Bharat, India’s flagship health initiative, which is recognized as the world’s largest government-funded healthcare program.

The day will conclude with Prime Minister Modi’s participation in a high-profile dialogue on countering terrorism and violent extremism. This event, hosted by the King of Jordan, New Zealand’s Prime Minister, and France’s President, will see leaders from across the globe discuss strategic responses to extremism. Modi, along with heads of state from countries such as Kenya, Indonesia, the UK, and Germany, will offer insights on global efforts to tackle these growing challenges.