Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias emphasised India's growing status as a major global power ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to the United States. He also emphasised Athens' wish to see New Delhi take a more active role in important international regions, such as the Mediterranean and the Red Sea.

India's military presence in these regions, according to Dendias, would be advantageous for the entire world, not just Europe. Speaking to ANI, Dendias said, "I am a committed friend of India. Foreign Minister Dr Jaishankar is a close friend of mine. I admire what you have achieved in your economy. Having said that, India, I believe, has a different role to play now. India is a big country, it is becoming a big power. So, with that comes big responsibilities." 

"From the Greek angle, we would love to see India being present in the Red Sea, being present in the Mediterranean and accepting the role of an important power. We would like to see more of your Air Force, more of your Navy in a bigger role in the Mediterranean, in Europe and the world. I assume that that's what PM Modi is going to discuss with President Trump. It is good that he is one of the first leaders who meets President Trump here in Washington, DC," he added. On President Donald Trump's invitation, PM Modi will travel to the United States from February 12–13. Since President Trump took office for his second term, this will be the first time the two leaders have met. According to a White House official statement, PM Modi met US Vice President JD Vance in Paris on Tuesday (local time) and they discussed issues of shared interest, such as how the US can help India diversify its energy sources by investing in clean, "reliable" US nuclear technology. 

After the meeting, the two leaders had coffee together with Usha Vance, the Second Lady of the United States. Prime Minister Modi also gave gifts to the Vance children and wished Vice President's son, Vivek, a happy birthday, according to the White House statement. Following the meeting, PM Modi wrote on X, "Had a wonderful meeting with US Vice President JD Vance and his family. We had a great conversation on various subjects. Delighted to join them in celebrating the joyous birthday of their son, Vivek!" American Vice President JD Vance expressed his gratitude to PM Modi, adding, "Prime Minister Modi was gracious and kind, and our kids really enjoyed the gifts. I'm grateful to him for the wonderful conversation.