Modi to address annual gala of USIBC next month

Washington, May 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the annual gala of US-India Business Council next month during his visit here, the advocacy group said today.

Modi's address to the USIBC before who's who of American corporate sector would be on June 7.

He will also participate in a roundtable with leading global CEOs, USIBC said. "It's a privilege for USIBC to welcome Prime Minister Modi on his fourth visit to the US, particularly in light of the advancement of our countries' relationship over the past two years," USIBC president Mukesh Aghi said.

"India became the top global FDI destination in 2015 – attracting USD 63 billion – fuelled by Modi's ability to attract foreign investors and to build a globally competitive environment in India," Aghi said.

The bilateral relationship has matured significantly over the past a few years, and extends beyond the leadership of the two countries, he said in a statement.

Though there has been no official confirmation of Modi's visit either from the Prime Minister's Office or the White House, he is expected to visit the US at the invitation of President Barack Obama, who is likely to host him for a State dinner.

US House of Representative Speaker Paul Ryan has already invited him to address a joint meeting of the Congress on June 8. During the annual gala, USIBC will present its Global Leadership Award to the Amazon Founder and CEO Jeff Bezos, and founder and MD of Sun Pharmaceuticals Dilip Shanghvi.

"Jeff and Dilip are two leaders that are shaping the US-India trade ties with their incredible business acumen and have made a lasting impression in integrating India into the global economy," Aghi said.

"We couldn't think of more qualified icons that are emblematic of the immense potential of our trade relationship. We are honoured to be presenting the 2016 Global Leadership Award to them," he said.

PTI