between the two leaders, the White House issued a press statement, in which it said that President Biden and PM Modi agreed that their countries will stand “shoulder-to-shoulder” in their efforts to protect the health of their citizens and communities.
“President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. spoke today with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, committing that the United States and India will work closely together in the fight against COVID-19. The President pledged America’s steadfast support for the people of India who have been impacted by the recent surge in COVID-19 cases,” the statement read.
“In response, the United States is providing a range of emergency assistance, including oxygen-related supplies, vaccine materials, and therapeutics. Prime Minister Modi expressed appreciation for the strong cooperation between both countries.”
Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation says India’s COVID crisis is “beyond heart-breaking”, as the country reported 352,991 new infections on Monday, surpassing its own global record for the fifth consecutive day. The number of virus-induced deaths reported on Monday amounted to 2,812, India’s highest daily figure for fatalities.
According to the While House, the United States will make ventilators, rapid diagnostic test kits, therapeutics and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) immediately available for India in order to treat COVID-19 patients and protect front-line health workers in the country.
Prior to his phone call with PM Modi, President Biden said on Twitter that the US is determine to assist India in its battle against this unprecedented crisis. “Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need,” he tweeted.
