Speaking to an Indian diaspora at the Ronald Reagan Center, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his delight regarding the American government's recent announcement to repatriate over 100 stolen antiquities back to India. Expressing his happiness, PM Modi conveyed his appreciation to the American government for their decision to return these valuable cultural artifacts to their rightful place.

 "I am happy that the American government has decided to return more than 100 antiquities of India that were stolen from us. These antiquities of Indian origin had reached the international market through right or wrong paths, but America’s decision to return them to India shows the emotional bond between the two nations.” PM Modi said.

“Over centuries, innumerable priceless artifacts, some with deep cultural and religious significance, had been stolen and smuggled abroad. The government adopted a proactive approach to ‘bringing back Indian artifacts and cultural heritage,” said a government release.

The Prime Minister emphasised the significant efforts undertaken by the Indian government to bring back Indian artifacts and preserve the country's cultural heritage. Through discussions with global leaders and multilateral institutions during his foreign visits, PM Modi has prioritized the retrieval of stolen antiquities. As a result, a total of 251 antiquities have been successfully brought back to India, with 238 of them being repatriated since 2014.