Preparations are underway at the White House as President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden prepare to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi for an official state visit to Washington on Thursday. The event will be marked by a grand state dinner in the evening, symbolising the reaffirmation of the two countries' strong ties.
The menu options will be closely scrutinised, especially in light of PM Modi's memorable but understated dinner during his previous visit to the White House. As PM Modi observed Navratri, he opted for lukewarm lime water rather than the lavish spread. However, the growing popularity of Indian cuisine in the United States suggests that a more vibrant and customised experience awaits this time.
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What Is Likely To Be Served At State Dinner — Here's What We Know
The state dinner arrangements have catered to the guest's dietary restrictions with meticulous attention to diplomatic detail. Nina Curtis, a renowned plant-based chef from Sacramento, California, has been chosen as the dinner's guest chef, CNN Politics reported.
Chef Curtis will create a menu that perfectly complements the occasion, showcasing her expertise in plant-based cuisine, in collaboration with White House Executive Chef Cris Comerford and White House Executive Pastry Chef Susie Morrison, as per the report. Chef Curtis was chosen by the First Lady herself, based on PM Modi's vegetarian preferences, the report added.
In anticipation of the state dinner, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan embarked on a trip to India earlier this week. During his visit, Sullivan met with Modi and other officials to discuss a variety of strategic, regional, and bilateral issues, including the advancement of the US-India technological and defence partnership.
The state dinner for Prime Minister Modi will be the Biden administration's third such event. The Bidens previously hosted French President Emmanuel Macron in December and South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol in April, emphasising the importance of international relations and diplomatic engagement.
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State Dinner To Feature Plant-Based Chef and Violinist Joshua Bell
Joshua Bell, a Grammy Award-winning American violinist and conductor, will provide the evening's enchanting entertainment, adding to the evening's elegance and cultural enrichment, as per the CNN Politics report. Bell's exceptional talent and captivating performances will undoubtedly create an atmosphere of artistic brilliance that will delight the distinguished guests in attendance, it said.