Washington: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Tulsi Gabbard, the newly confirmed Director of National Intelligence (DNI) of the United States, to discuss strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in intelligence cooperation on counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and emerging threats.
During the meeting, Modi congratulated Gabbard on her confirmation as DNI, calling her a "strong votary" of the India-US friendship. "Met USA's Director of National Intelligence, @TulsiGabbard in Washington DC. Congratulated her on her confirmation. Discussed various aspects of the India-USA friendship, of which she's always been a strong votary," Modi wrote on X.
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Earlier on Wednesday, Gabbard was sworn in as the Director of National Intelligence during a ceremony at the White House. US Attorney General Pam Bondi administered the oath of office to Gabbard, who was praised by President Trump as “an American of extraordinary courage and patriotism.” Trump noted her three deployments with the Army National Guard and reflected on her political journey, saying, “Can you believe that?”
Enhanced itelligence cooperation on agenda
The discussions between the two leaders focused on expanding intelligence cooperation in areas crucial to national security. According to the Ministry of External Affairs' official spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, "PM @narendramodi held a productive meeting with US Director of National Intelligence @TulsiGabbard in Washington DC today. Discussions focused on enhancing intelligence cooperation in counter-terrorism, cybersecurity & emerging threats."
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Washington DC on Wednesday after a visit to France, where he co-chaired the Artificial Intelligence Action Summit with French President Emmanuel Macron. Modi is set to hold bilateral talks with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday.
Bipartisan skepticism surrounds Gabbard’s appointment
Gabbard, 43, a former Democratic congresswoman from Hawaii, had faced bipartisan scepticism regarding her suitability for the role. However, she was confirmed by the Senate in a 52-48 vote after months of deliberation on her qualifications to oversee US intelligence agencies.
In her first remarks as DNI, Gabbard promised to "refocus our intelligence community" and acknowledged the American public's lack of trust in intelligence agencies. She stated, "Unfortunately, the American people have very little trust in the intelligence community, largely because they've seen the weaponisation and politicisation of an entity that is supposed to be purely focused on ensuring our national security."
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Published: 13 Feb 2025, 07:09 am IST
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