In a notable shift in tone from previous U.S. administrations, Vice President JD Vance emphasized a more respectful and balanced approach to India during a public address in Jaipur. Speaking just a day after high-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, Vance highlighted the Trump administration’s intent to move away from what he described as Washington’s historic “preaching” attitude.
“Now we're not here to preach that you do things any one particular way,” Vance said. “Too often in the past, Washington approached Prime Minister Modi with an attitude of preaching.”
Vance, who is on a multi-day visit to India, drew a sharp contrast between the current U.S. administration and its predecessors. He criticized earlier governments for viewing India primarily as a source of low-cost labor, failing to engage with the country on equal footing. “Prior administrations saw India as a source of cheap labor, even as they criticized the Prime Minister's government — arguably the most popular in the democratic world,” he stated.
Offering candid praise for Prime Minister Modi, Vance acknowledged the Indian leader's widespread public support. “As I told Prime Minister Modi last night, he’s got approval ratings that would make me jealous,” Vance quipped, drawing laughter from the audience.
He further described Modi as a “tough negotiator,” adding that this quality earns him considerable respect in Washington. “It’s precisely this firmness that makes him a respected figure not just in India, but also among U.S. leaders,” Vance said.
The vice president’s remarks signal a deepening of strategic ties between the world’s two largest democracies, with both sides emphasizing mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)