Modi meets New York’s Mayor Blasio, discusses urban rejuvenation, counter-terrorism

NEW YORK- India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his visit to the United States by meeting the New York City’s Mayor Bill de Blasio.

In the meeting that lasted half-n-hour on September 26, they discussed ways in which New York can bolster India’s urban infrastructure.

The two also exchanged notes on how large cities can combat and respond to threats of terror. A multitude of Indian cities like New York continue to be on the hit list of terror outfits. As a result, finding ways to prevent and respond to attacks have become the focal point of urban governance of such mega-cities.

Modi and Blasio also discussed how New York police force had changed after the 9/11 attacks.

“Prime Minister was extremely keen to understand, following the events of 9/11, how New York City metamorphosed its police force and what were the ways in which it has taken a pro-active stance. Also in this context, there was also discussion on common threats that are faced by big cities in terms of terror threats,” said an official statement released on September 26.

Modi inquired about New York’s public housing campaign and ways in which it has managed to rejuvenate urban spaces. New York City will be building around half a million houses over a ten year period.

As Chief Minister of Gujarat, Modi had launched the Chief Minister Housing Scheme designed for the lower and the middle income earning classes. His government in New Delhi has made low-cost housing for all, an issue of national priority.

Modi and Blasio also exchanged notes how they could handle large crowds in cities. The Mayor is reported to have said that India’s crowd far exceeds the crowds he is used to handling.

Modi informed Blasio about the Kumbh Mela and the large number of people that come there and discussed the modus-operandi through which this largest gathering of humans on earth can be better managed.

Author Profile

India Writes Network: India Writes Network (www.indiawrites.org) is an emerging think tank and a media-publishing company focused on international affairs & the India Story. Centre for Global India Insights is the research arm of India Writes Network. To subscribe to India and the World, write to editor@indiawrites.org. A venture of TGII Media Private Limited, a leading media, publishing and consultancy company, IWN has carved a niche for balanced and exhaustive reporting and analysis of international affairs. Eminent personalities, politicians, diplomats, authors, strategy gurus and news-makers have contributed to India Writes Network, as also “India and the World,” a magazine focused on global affairs.