#ModiInUS: US city of Columbus marks Narendra Modi's visit to America

The mayor of the American city of Columbus in Ohio state, which has a sister city relationship with Ahmedabad, has issued a citation to mark the maiden US visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a citation, Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman urged all city residents to join him in recognition of this significant event. Columbus has a sister city relationship with Ahmedabad since 2008.

Since 2008, the mayor said the two cities have strengthened ties of friendship and cultivated the benefits to present to future generations. Noting that Ahmedabad has been a model of strong, progressive government with a rich cultural heritage, the mayor said Columbus embraces the Indian-American community as "our culture" is enriched by their contributions to the community.

Ohio State Senator, Sherrod Brown, in a letter welcomed Modi on his maiden US visit as prime minister.

"Your first visit as Prime Minister is an important occasion to emphasise the unique relationship between our nations – a relationship based on our shared democratic values and tradition," Brown said in a letter to Modi.

Brown said Modi's US visit would strengthen the relationship between the world's two largest democracies.

"Together we must strive to address the challenges and opportunities that we face," he said.

"It is my hope that renewed collaboration will enable citizens in both our nations to engage in increased educational exchanges, business development and international trade opportunities – events that will solidify the friendship that unites us," Brown wrote in his letter to Modi dated September 25.