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Floor Speech

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Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, I rise to extend a warm welcome to His Excellency Narendra Modi, the esteemed Prime Minister of the Republic of India. Next week, we will be honored to have him address a joint meeting of Congress underscoring the significance of the relationship between the United States and India.

The bond between India and the United States is not just an alliance, it is a strategic and global partnership. Our two nations' relationship is built on the strong foundation of shared values--democracy, freedom, and respect for the rule of law.

India and the United States have long recognized the power of collaboration and fostering peace, prosperity, and global stability. United States-India diplomatic relations have only grown since India gained its independence 75 years ago.

In the face of global challenges ranging from education to energy to agriculture and health, Prime Minister Modi has worked with the United States to address these issues, and continues to work toward solutions that benefit not just our countries but the entire world.

Prime Minister Modi's visit to Washington, DC, is an occasion to celebrate that progress and to reaffirm our commitment to further strengthen this vital partnership.

I have had the opportunity to learn more about this partnership from Dr. Kulkarni, who is the Indian Consulate General in Atlanta, and a friend of mine. And she is also a friend of my State director, Umesh Sanjanwala.

So Prime Minister Modi's visit is an opportunity to deepen our collaboration in areas such as trade, defense, technology, and healthcare, which will shape the future trajectory of our nations.

I encourage my colleagues to join me in extending a warm welcome to the Prime Minister as he visits our great Nation.

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