What is the significance of PM Narendra Modi’s US visit? What is a state visit?

• From June 21-23, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in the US
• First state visit by the Indian PM, Mr Modi will participate in the International Yoga Day at the United Nations
• On June 22, a ceremonial reception will be rolled out at the White House for Modi
• There are several events organised around the US visit
• The fact that the state visit comes in the middle of the Ukraine war and in an election year in India, makes the visit significant
• Modi’s address to the joint session of the Congress is another significant event
• PM Modi will be the first Indian prime minister to address the US Congress twice
• This will give Modi an opportunity to spell out his vision for the US-India relationship at a time when there is some serious geopolitical uncertainty
• The biggest outcome of the visit will be in defence cooperation