"It really does feel like a new era in India under Prime Minister Modi.
You see the focus on pushing the economy, opening and accelerating it,
but you also see it paired with a commitment to greater openness as a
society," Under Secretary of State for Civilian Security, Democracy and
Human Right, Sarah Swell, told reporters at a media round table.
Swell,
who returned to US after concluding talks with the leadership of the
new Indian government, and meeting members of the civil society and
human rights groups, praised the Prime Minister for "effectively taking
up the issues related to women, children and other sections of the
society and his determination for development for all."
"It (Modi Government) is very hopeful, very dynamic, much more open," Swell told reporters in response to a question.
"I
think one of the things that really struck me and that was very
gratifying for me in my role as Under Secretary of State for Civilian
Security, Democracy, and Human Rights is that PM Modi has opened up for
bilateral discussion and for national discussion on many issues that
have perhaps not been opened up in the same way before," she said.
Swell
said one of the most exciting openings to build on in terms of her
visit was Prime Minister Modi's recognition of the central role of women
in the future and economy of the country.
Both the countries are
involved in discussions about gender-based violence within our own
societies and how we can best combat it, she said.
"This is a
great example of an issue in which the country, the prime minister and
country's desire for economic development coincides with the demand for
greater realization of rights of all. It's just tremendously exciting,"
she said.
"American people have a profound respect for the fact
that India stands for democracy, human rights, religious tolerance,
pluralism, diversity, rule of law," said Atul Keshap, Deputy Assistant
Secretary of State for South Asia.
He said many people in US had
been moved by the Prime Minister's statements, since he took office,
about the need for broad-based inclusive growth in India that includes
all Indians and ensures a bright future for all.
He also said US
was "very committed" to engage with India as a vital and essential
democratic partner that shares its values and perspectives.
"We're
very focused on our forward agenda, on engaging across the board with
the Government of India in every field of human endeavor, and we will
continue to talk about any and all issues as friends," Keshap said in
response to a question.
