Washington

India is a "vibrant democracy" and anybody who happens to travel to New Delhi can see that for themselves, the White House said on Monday, dismissing concerns over the health of democracy in India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

When asked whether the US is concerned regarding the health of democracy in India, John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the National Security Council in the White House said, "India is a vibrant democracy. Anybody that, you know, happens to go to New Delhi can see that for themselves. And certainly, I would expect that the strength and health of democratic institutions will be part of the discussion."

Further, he pointed out that the US administration never shies away from "expressing concerns that we might have with anyone around the world."

"You can do that with friends; you're supposed to do that with friends," the White House official said.

Later this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to travel to the US for a state visit. White House will host PM Modi for a state dinner on June 22.

Kirby said that the visit is "really about advancing what is now and what we hope will be a deeper, stronger partnership and friendship going forward."

Addressing a press briefing, Kirby called India a "strong partner" of the US on many levels. He said that India is a member of the Quad and a partner of the US with respect to Indo-Pacific security.

The White House official said that US President Joe Biden is looking forward to having PM Modi to advance the partnership between two countries.

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On June 5, the US Secretary of Defence concluded his visit to India. During his visit, he termed the US-India partnership as the "cornerstone" of a free and open Indo-Pacific. He said that both countries have a unique role in preserving the rules-based international order.