Washington, February 20. Renowned African-American singer Mary Millben has showered praise on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic finesse following the recent US-India trade negotiations. In an exclusive interview with IANS after her performance at the Kennedy Center, Millben highlighted how Modi’s patience and strategic approach secured a favorable outcome for India.
“It’s fantastic that an agreement has finally been reached,” Millben said. “I commend both President Trump and Prime Minister Modi for finding a solution.” She emphasized Modi’s measured demeanor, noting, “I’ll always salute PM Modi for being so calculated and patient. He never compromised on getting the best for India.”
Responding to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s criticism that Modi had ‘sold out’ India, Millben dismissed the claims outright. “That’s not true at all. You can’t take Rahul Gandhi seriously. Modi got the better part of the deal because he waited patiently while the Trump administration had to figure out how to partner with such a strong nation.”
Millben pointed to recent geopolitical shifts bolstering India’s position, including the September meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and PM Modi, as well as the recent EU-India trade deal. “That EU-India agreement was a wake-up call for President Trump and his team. It clarified what America needs to do with India moving forward.”
She cautioned that a single trade pact doesn’t erase months of strained US diplomacy toward India. “One of the most important steps the President can take is inviting PM Modi for a state visit. Fixing relations goes beyond a quick trade deal.”
Turning to India’s rising global stature, Millben referenced the AI summit hosted by Modi, where global leaders gathered in India. “If you want to do business worldwide, India is essential. You saw it at the AI summit – countries from everywhere were there this week.”
Millben welcomed the newly announced Board of Peace initiative but warned against a domineering approach. “America isn’t dictating peace to the world; it’s leading conversations on peace globally. Dictatorship won’t succeed.”
The singer revealed she’s crafting new music for India’s Independence Day in August, possibly featuring ‘Vande Mataram.’ She expressed deep gratitude to her Indian and diaspora fans, calling them family, and noted her strong following built through performances at national events and cultural gatherings promoting US-India ties.