Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a meeting with Tulsi Gabbard

 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a meeting with Tulsi Gabbard, the United States Director of National Intelligence, where they explored various facets of the relationship between India and the US, particularly emphasizing the need to strengthen collaboration in intelligence concerning counter-terrorism and new threats.

During this meeting, PM Modi commended Gabbard, who identifies as Hindu-American, on her recent confirmation as the nation's leading intelligence official, an event that took place on Wednesday.

In a post on X, PM Modi remarked, "I met with @TulsiGabbard, the USA's Director of National Intelligence, in Washington DC. I congratulated her on her confirmation and we discussed several elements of India-USA relations, which she has consistently advocated for."

According to Randhir Jaiswal, the spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, discussions also included improving intelligence cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and addressing emerging threats.

PM Modi arrived in Washington, DC, at approximately 5:30 p.m. local time on Wednesday (4 a.m. IST Thursday), following his trip to France where he co-chaired the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron.

On Thursday, PM Modi is scheduled to engage in bilateral talks at the White House with former President Trump.

In a post on X, PM Modi expressed, "Our nations will continue to collaborate closely for the benefit of our citizens and to secure a brighter future for our planet."

On Wednesday, Gabbard took her oath as Director of National Intelligence in the Oval Office, shortly after receiving Senate confirmation, as reported by US media.

Attorney General Pam Bondi officiated the oath for Gabbard, whom Trump praised as "an American of extraordinary courage and patriotism." He highlighted her three deployments in the Army National Guard and referred to her background as a former Democratic Congresswoman, jokingly adding, "can you believe that?"

At 43 years old, Gabbard, who previously served as a Democratic Congresswoman from Hawaii, had encountered skepticism from both parties regarding her capability to oversee the intelligence agencies.

Upon her swearing-in, Gabbard expressed gratitude to the President for his confidence in her and pledged to "refocus our intelligence community."

"The unfortunate reality is that the American populace has minimal faith in the intelligence community, primarily because they have witnessed the politicization and weaponization of an organization that should solely prioritize national security," the new Intelligence Chief stated.

The Senate confirmed her appointment with a narrow 52-48 vote after two months of discussions regarding her qualifications to lead the intelligence agencies and provide Trump with his daily intelligence briefings.