This comes 9 years after the US had refused to give Narendra Modi a diplomatic visa
Nancy Powell's visit is the first by the top US diplomat after the post-Godhra riots
The US has been playing down the visit saying it is part of increased engagement with Indian leaders and indicated that President Barack Obama may not have been involved in the decision to end the BJP leader's boycott.
The US State Department also scotched speculation about the meeting leading to the US lifting a nine-year long visa ban on Modi in the wake of the 2002 Gujarat riots, insisting that there was no change in its visa policy and that Modi is free to apply for a visa as per procedure.
Why this U-turn by US?
Assembly results and pre-poll surveys are making Modi a key political player, someone who could end up becoming India's Prime Minister. The SIT and the courts have given him a clean chit in the 2002 riots.
Also there has been a change of guard in the US State department. Last year, the EU and UK changed their policy. So, the US really had little choice in ending its 9-year ban.
Conditions set by Modi to meet US ambassador
Meeting had to be a one-on-one meeting in Gandhinagar
Modi met US embassy officials to set terms for discussions
US Embassy told to take MEA permission
US press release on Narendra Modi-Nancy Powell meeting
US Ambassador Nancy J Powell today met with Chief Minister Narendra Modi in Gandhinagar. This meeting was part of the US Mission's outreach to senior leaders of India's major political parties in advance of the upcoming national elections. During her visit to Gujarat, Ambassador Powell will meet with representatives from non-governmental organizations and US and Indian businesses. Her discussions focus on the importance of the US-India relationship, regional security issues, human rights, and American trade and investment in India.
The United States and India are moving forward with a strategic partnership that is broad and deep. Starting last November, Ambassador Powell has shared and listened to views on the US-India relationship. She continues to emphasize that the US-India partnership is important and strategic, and that the United States looks forward to working closely with the government that the Indian people choose in the upcoming elections.
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