Jaipur– U.S. Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and popularity, joking that the Indian leader’s approval ratings are something most politicians would envy.
“I told Prime Minister Modi last night—he has approval ratings that make me jealous,” Vance said during his visit to Jaipur.
Vance also lauded Modi’s reputation as a tough negotiator, particularly in defending India’s economic interests. “I’ve seen firsthand how fiercely he fights for Indian industry. He’s a very tough negotiator, and the United States and India will continue to move forward together through mutual cooperation across many sectors,” Vance remarked.
Reaffirming the United States’ commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, Vance highlighted the strategic importance of the U.S.-India partnership. “The 21st century will be shaped by the strength of this relationship. President Trump is focused on rebalancing global trade so that the United States, alongside allies like India, can build a better future,” he said.
Reflecting on Washington’s evolving approach to New Delhi, Vance acknowledged that past U.S. administrations often took a condescending tone toward India. “Too often, Washington approached Prime Minister Modi with preachiness—even condescension,” he said. “Previous administrations saw India primarily as a source of cheap labor while criticizing a government that is arguably the most popular in the democratic world.”
On trade, Vance called for fairness and mutual benefit, noting the importance of ongoing bilateral negotiations. “President Trump and I respect Prime Minister Modi for being a tough negotiator. We don’t fault him for defending Indian industries. Instead, we question why past American leaders didn’t show the same determination for our workers,” he said. “We’re making solid progress on the terms of reference for a trade agreement.”
Vance also emphasized the growing defense partnership between the two nations. “In defense, our countries share a strong relationship, and there’s great potential for co-developing advanced military platforms,” he said. He also welcomed India’s recent amendments to its nuclear liability laws, calling them an important step toward expanding nuclear cooperation.
Taking a lighthearted turn, Vance mentioned the popularity of his Indian-American wife, Usha Vance. “She’s a bigger celebrity than I am in India,” he quipped.
During his address, Vance reflected on India’s vibrancy and uniqueness, contrasting it with other countries he has visited. “In many places, there’s a monotony—a desire to imitate the rest of the world. But not in India. Here, there’s vibrancy, a sense of infinite possibility. Life is getting richer. New homes and buildings are rising, and there’s a deep pride in being Indian,” he observed.
Vance noted that this was his first visit to India, the birthplace of his wife’s parents. “I’ve been captivated by the beauty of India’s ancient architecture and the richness of its history and traditions. But just as impressive is India’s forward-looking vision. This combination of heritage and ambition gives India its unique energy,” he said.
Earlier in the day, Vance visited Jaipur’s historic Amer Fort with his wife Usha, their sons Vivek and Ivan, and daughter Mirabel. The family arrived at the fort by jeep and were greeted at Jaleb Chowk by two elephants—Chanda and Pushpa. Traditional folk performances, including Kachhi Ghodi, Ghoomar, and Kalbelia dances, added to the festive welcome.
Later, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari met with the Vance family.
Vice President Vance is on a four-day visit to India. After arriving in New Delhi on Monday, he visited the Akshardham Temple and held discussions with Prime Minister Modi in the evening before traveling to Jaipur. (Source: IANS)
