Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed a bipartisan United States Congressional delegation led by Congressman Michael McCaul during their visit to India. The delegation, which includes former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, convened to discuss bilateral relations and other key issues.
The visit highlighted significant meetings, including one with the Tibetan spiritual leader, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, at his residence in Dharamshala. Pelosi expressed strong Congressional support for Tibetans, reaffirming their backing amidst ongoing challenges.
The delegation, comprising Representatives Gregory Meeks, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Nicole Malliotakis, Ami Bera, Jim McGovern, and led by Congressman McCaul, arrived in India earlier this week. They were greeted by officials from the Central Tibetan Administration at Kangra Airport, Himachal Pradesh.
Their itinerary included a crucial meeting with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra, where Jaishankar lauded the delegation for their unwavering support towards strengthening India-US strategic ties.
Pleasure to meet with the bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by @RepMcCaul. Thank @SpeakerPelosi, @RepGregoryMeeks, @RepMMM, @NMalliotakis, @RepBera and @RepMcGovern for joining.
Appreciate their strong and continued support for the 🇮🇳 🇺🇸 strategic partnership. pic.twitter.com/ViDk0oIByD
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 19, 2024
Before meeting the Dalai Lama, the US lawmakers participated in a public felicitation at the main Tibetan temple in Dharamshala. The event showcased Tibetan cultural performances, underscoring the rich heritage of the community.
During the meeting with the Dalai Lama, Representative McCaul presented a framed copy of ‘The Resolve Tibet Act’, a bipartisan legislation recently passed by the US Congress aimed at bolstering support for Tibet. The Dalai Lama, in turn, presented a Buddha Statue to Speaker Pelosi as a gesture of gratitude.
Pelosi, in her statement on social media platform X, emphasized the delegation’s commitment to supporting Tibetans and urged peaceful dialogue on the region’s status and governance. The bipartisan nature of their discussions underscored their shared objectives in fostering strong ties between the US and India.
The visit concluded with positive affirmations from both sides regarding future collaborations and continued cooperation on strategic initiatives. The delegation’s visit to India marks a significant step in reinforcing diplomatic relations amidst global geopolitical shifts.
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