The United States White House has commended the citizens of India for exercising their democratic right to vote in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby stated that India stands out as one of the most vibrant democracies globally, and the US applauds the Indian people for actively participating in shaping their government’s future. Kirby’s remarks came in response to a question regarding the ongoing elections in India. The statement from the White House is particularly notable given President Biden’s recent comments in which he had labeled India as a ‘xenophobic’ country. However, the administration has since clarified that the president’s remarks were intended to highlight the inclusivity of American democracy in comparison to other nations, including adversaries like China and Russia. Kirby also emphasized the deepening relationship between India and the US, particularly during the past three years of the Biden administration. He highlighted several initiatives launched during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit, including collaborations on emerging technologies and the strengthening of the Indo-Pacific Quad. Kirby further acknowledged the vibrant people-to-people exchanges and military partnerships between the two countries. The US administration expressed gratitude for Prime Minister Modi’s leadership and affirmed the importance of the India-US partnership.