The US President's visit to India comes in an election year. For President Trump, the purpose of the trip goes beyond strengthening ties with New Delhi. This report tells you what Trump hoped to achieve from his visit to India.

Gravitas: What Trump gets out of his visit to India

During his visit to India, US President Donald Trump had a message for not just Indians, but for the neighbourhood as well as South Asia at large. This report decodes some of Trump's key messages.

Gravitas: Trump's India visit, a message to South Asia

Twitter is US President Donald Trump's favorite social media platform. Here is how Trump's visit to India played out on Twitter.

Gravitas: How Twitter reacted to Trump's India visit

US President Donald Trump's two-day India visit

US President Donald Trump termed his two-day state visit to India as "very successful" on Wednesday after he landed in the United States after concluding a maiden trip to the country.

Taking Twitter to announce his arrival in the US, Trump wrote, "Just landed. India was great, trip very successful," on Twitter.

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Just landed. India was great, trip very successful. Heading to the White House. Meetings and calls scheduled today. <a href="https://twitter.com/CDCgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CDCgov</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/SecAzar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecAzar</a> and all doing a great job with respect to Coronavirus! Briefing this afternoon.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1232631333408649216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Trump was on his maiden official visit to India from February 24 to 25. He was accompanied by First Lady Melania and a high-powered delegation comprising senior US administration officials, including National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien.

They visited Ahmedabad to attent 'Namaste Trump' event during which Trump along with First Lady and PM Modi addressed thousand of people.

After Ahemdabad, Trump went to Agra where he visited the Taj Mahal. New Delhi was his third and last stop before he left for Washington on February 24.

As Trump left for the US, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday night thanked the American President for coming to India and said the visit has been a "path-breaking one".

"India-USA friendship benefits the people of our nations and the world," Modi said in a series of tweets.

During the visit, India and the US on Tuesday finalised defence deals worth $3 billion under which 30 military helicopters will be procured from two American defence majors for Indian armed forces.

In press briefing on Tuesday, President Trump touched upon an array of issues critical to both the US and India from the Kashmir issue to India's tariffs,&nbsp;H-1B visas, religious freedom and CAA protests in Delhi.

Trump also said that he had good relations with both PM Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan while asserting that he would do anything to help solve the Kashmir issue.

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Donald Trump termed his two-day state visit to India as "very successful" on Wednesday after he landed in the United States after concluding a maiden trip to the country.

US President Donald Trump termed his two-day state visit to India as "very successful" on Wednesday after he landed in the United States after concluding a maiden trip to the country. Taking Twitter to announce his arrival in the US, Trump wrote, "Just landed. India was great, trip very successful," on Twitter. Just landed. India was great, trip very successful. Heading to the White House. Meetings and calls scheduled today. @CDCgov, @SecAzar and all doing a great job with respect to Coronavirus! Briefing this afternoon. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 26, 2020 × Trump was on his maiden official visit to India from February 24 to 25. He was accompanied by First Lady Melania and a high-powered delegation comprising senior US administration officials, including National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien. They visited Ahmedabad to attent 'Namaste Trump' event during which Trump along with First Lady and PM Modi addressed thousand of people. After Ahemdabad, Trump went to Agra where he visited the Taj Mahal. New Delhi was his third and last stop before he left for Washington on February 24. As Trump left for the US, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday night thanked the American President for coming to India and said the visit has been a "path-breaking one". "India-USA friendship benefits the people of our nations and the world," Modi said in a series of tweets. During the visit, India and the US on Tuesday finalised defence deals worth $3 billion under which 30 military helicopters will be procured from two American defence majors for Indian armed forces. In press briefing on Tuesday, President Trump touched upon an array of issues critical to both the US and India from the Kashmir issue to India's tariffs, H-1B visas, religious freedom and CAA protests in Delhi. Trump also said that he had good relations with both PM Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan while asserting that he would do anything to help solve the Kashmir issue. (With inputs from agencies)

'It was great, trip very successful': Trump after his two-day India visit

Harvey&nbsp;Weinstein's sex crimes conviction was a "great victory" for women, US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anything-i-can-do-to-mediate-have-great-relations-with-pm-modi-and-imran-khan-trump-on-kashmir-282715">Donald Trump</a> said Tuesday without acknowledging the numerous accusations of sexual misconduct he has faced.

The disgraced Hollywood movie producer was found guilty on Monday of rape and sexual assault in a verdict hailed as a historic landmark by the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/the-harvey-weinstein-timeline-from-studio-to-courtroom-in-40-years-282713">The Harvey Weinstein timeline: From studio to courtroom in 40 years</a>

"From the standpoint of women, I think it was a great thing," Trump said at a news conference in India.

"It was a great victory. And sends a very strong message, very, very strong message," he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/harvey-weinstein-stays-at-hospital-for-chest-pain-a-day-after-his-sexual-assault-conviction-282732">Weinstein</a>, 67, was acquitted of first-degree rape and predatory sexual assault by the New York court, charges that could have seen him jailed for life.

But he faces up to 29 years in prison for criminal sexual acts in the first degree and third-degree rape.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/harvey-weinstein-stays-at-hospital-for-chest-pain-a-day-after-his-sexual-assault-conviction-282732">Harvey Weinstein stays at hospital for 'chest pain' a day after his sexual assault conviction</a>

"He was a person I didn't like," Trump told reporters in New Delhi.&nbsp;"I just was not a fan of his. I knew him a little bit, not very well."

Trump, 73, failed to mention that at least 16 women have accused him of sexual misconduct.

Among them is prominent writer E. Jean Carroll who alleges that Trump raped her in the changing room of a luxury New York department store in the mid-1990s.

She is suing him for defamation, claiming that his denials of the alleged attack, in which he said, "She's not my type," had damaged her reputation and career.

Summer Zervos, a one-time contestant on Trump's reality television show "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/arnold-quits-the-celebrity-apprentice-2465">The Apprentice</a>," has also sued him for defamation after he said she lied in claiming that he groped and forcibly kissed her.

Trump denies all the allegations and has never been prosecuted over them.

A month before his election victory in November 2016, a ten-year-old tape came to light in which the former reality TV star and real estate tycoon bragged about assaulting women.

Harvey Weinstein's sex crimes conviction was a "great victory" for women, US President Donald Trump said Tuesday without acknowledging the numerous accusations of sexual misconduct he has faced.

Harvey Weinstein's sex crimes conviction was a "great victory" for women, US President Donald Trump said Tuesday without acknowledging the numerous accusations of sexual misconduct he has faced. The disgraced Hollywood movie producer was found guilty on Monday of rape and sexual assault in a verdict hailed as a historic landmark by the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct. Also read: The Harvey Weinstein timeline: From studio to courtroom in 40 years "From the standpoint of women, I think it was a great thing," Trump said at a news conference in India. "It was a great victory. And sends a very strong message, very, very strong message," he added. Weinstein, 67, was acquitted of first-degree rape and predatory sexual assault by the New York court, charges that could have seen him jailed for life. But he faces up to 29 years in prison for criminal sexual acts in the first degree and third-degree rape. Also read: Harvey Weinstein stays at hospital for 'chest pain' a day after his sexual assault conviction "He was a person I didn't like," Trump told reporters in New Delhi. "I just was not a fan of his. I knew him a little bit, not very well." Trump, 73, failed to mention that at least 16 women have accused him of sexual misconduct. Among them is prominent writer E. Jean Carroll who alleges that Trump raped her in the changing room of a luxury New York department store in the mid-1990s. She is suing him for defamation, claiming that his denials of the alleged attack, in which he said, "She's not my type," had damaged her reputation and career. Summer Zervos, a one-time contestant on Trump's reality television show "The Apprentice," has also sued him for defamation after he said she lied in claiming that he groped and forcibly kissed her. Trump denies all the allegations and has never been prosecuted over them. A month before his election victory in November 2016, a ten-year-old tape came to light in which the former reality TV star and real estate tycoon bragged about assaulting women.

US President Donald Trump hails Harvey Weinstein's conviction

US President Donald Trump’s brief, but substantive, visit to India heralds a renewed US-India partnership designed to address the challenges of the 21st century.

It is difficult to overstate the importance of this <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-indo-us-ties-can-play-a-definitive-role-in-redefining-world-order-282852">partnership</a>, one that has the potential of having a profound impact on the geopolitical dynamics.

Agreements in principle were reached between India and the United States in the areas of defence and security, trade and energy.

However important the others, defence and security will be the foundation of this renewed partnership. 
 
The strategic conditions in the Indian Ocean region are rapidly changing. We see the emergence of China as an economic predator. We know China wants to expand militarily into the Indian Ocean. Pakistan continues to use terrorism as an instrument of its foreign policy. The withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan could create a strategic vacuum.

An India-US partnership has the capability of addressing all those issues and help to ensure peace and prosperity in the Indian- Ocean region. 
 
As was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/diaspora-dynamics-in-howdy-modi-to-namaste-trump-282679">the “Howdy Modi” event</a> in Houston last year, the pomp and pageantry of President Trump’s visit to India was an essential component of the optics of diplomacy. India and the United States are democracies and need to rally their citizens in support of the renewed partnership.

The next major milestone will be a trade agreement.

Bilateral trade between India and the United States more than doubled in value between 2008 and 2018. It is, therefore, no surprise with such a rapid increase in the volume of trade that areas of contention would arise.

Specifically, the removal of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) for India, and India’s reciprocal tariffs prompting the Trump Administration to impose new steel and aluminium tariffs on India, all of which has created obstacles to a comprehensive trade agreement at this time.

It is important to note, however, that the GSP program was designed for developing country and India can no longer be considered as a member of that category, but as a rising global economic power.

President Trump, long a supporter of fair trade, sees India as an equal trading partner and seeks an arrangement that is both balanced and mutually beneficial.

There is a general consensus among Indian and US officials that all outstanding trade issues will be resolved and a major trade agreement will be signed within a year.

The $3 billion military helicopter deal signed during the President’s visit was the leading edge of greater trade between India and the US, as well as, a complement to increase defence cooperation.

It is no accident that the United States renamed its Pacific military command to the Indo-Pacific Command emphasising the importance of the Indian Ocean region and India as its pivotal nation.

The national interests of India and the United States are converging.

Last November, the US and India completed their most expansive joint military exercises in history amid efforts to coordinate more effectively concerning the defence and security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Such coordination is entirely consistent with Prime Minister Modi’s SAGAR initiative for Security and Growth for All in the Region:

“(i) preserving freedom of navigation for commercial shipping, (ii) sustainably and equitably harnessing the Indian Ocean’s natural resources, (iii) establishing protocols for enhancing disaster prevention and relief as well as search and rescue operations, (iv) countering piracy, terrorism, smuggling, and illegal weapons proliferation, and (v) managing international naval competition.”

We now have two of the foremost democracies in the world working together for peace and prosperity and against authoritarianism and terrorism.

We could look back on this moment as being a watershed event in history. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump’s brief, but substantive, visit to India heralds a renewed US-India partnership designed to address the challenges of the 21st century.

US President Donald Trump’s brief, but substantive, visit to India heralds a renewed US-India partnership designed to address the challenges of the 21st century. It is difficult to overstate the importance of this partnership, one that has the potential of having a profound impact on the geopolitical dynamics. Agreements in principle were reached between India and the United States in the areas of defence and security, trade and energy. However important the others, defence and security will be the foundation of this renewed partnership. The strategic conditions in the Indian Ocean region are rapidly changing. We see the emergence of China as an economic predator. We know China wants to expand militarily into the Indian Ocean. Pakistan continues to use terrorism as an instrument of its foreign policy. The withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan could create a strategic vacuum. An India-US partnership has the capability of addressing all those issues and help to ensure peace and prosperity in the Indian- Ocean region. As was the “Howdy Modi” event in Houston last year, the pomp and pageantry of President Trump’s visit to India was an essential component of the optics of diplomacy. India and the United States are democracies and need to rally their citizens in support of the renewed partnership. The next major milestone will be a trade agreement. Bilateral trade between India and the United States more than doubled in value between 2008 and 2018. It is, therefore, no surprise with such a rapid increase in the volume of trade that areas of contention would arise. Specifically, the removal of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) for India, and India’s reciprocal tariffs prompting the Trump Administration to impose new steel and aluminium tariffs on India, all of which has created obstacles to a comprehensive trade agreement at this time. It is important to note, however, that the GSP program was designed for developing country and India can no longer be considered as a member of that category, but as a rising global economic power. President Trump, long a supporter of fair trade, sees India as an equal trading partner and seeks an arrangement that is both balanced and mutually beneficial. There is a general consensus among Indian and US officials that all outstanding trade issues will be resolved and a major trade agreement will be signed within a year. The $3 billion military helicopter deal signed during the President’s visit was the leading edge of greater trade between India and the US, as well as, a complement to increase defence cooperation. It is no accident that the United States renamed its Pacific military command to the Indo-Pacific Command emphasising the importance of the Indian Ocean region and India as its pivotal nation. The national interests of India and the United States are converging. Last November, the US and India completed their most expansive joint military exercises in history amid efforts to coordinate more effectively concerning the defence and security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. Such coordination is entirely consistent with Prime Minister Modi’s SAGAR initiative for Security and Growth for All in the Region: “(i) preserving freedom of navigation for commercial shipping, (ii) sustainably and equitably harnessing the Indian Ocean’s natural resources, (iii) establishing protocols for enhancing disaster prevention and relief as well as search and rescue operations, (iv) countering piracy, terrorism, smuggling, and illegal weapons proliferation, and (v) managing international naval competition.” We now have two of the foremost democracies in the world working together for peace and prosperity and against authoritarianism and terrorism. We could look back on this moment as being a watershed event in history. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

A new era of India-US relations has begun

US President Donald Trump's India visit has come to an end. India and the United State has issued a joint statement on Donal Trump's India visit. #WION #TrumpIndiaVisit #DonaldTrump

India-US joint statement details Pakistan's role in terrorism

Trump India visit: From Ivanka's anarkali to Melania's sash, pick your favourite look

India witnessed an unprecedented welcome for a foreign head of state, it was the biggest crowd that US President Donald Trump has ever addressed.

India left no stone unturned to throw a grand reception for the American President. It's a visit that will be remembered for the pictures and the bonhomie between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-indians-love-us-president-donald-trump-282632">President Donald Trump</a> and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This visit certainly overshadows all previous State visits by American Presidents. Trump used this opportunity to cement his relationship with Prime Minister by the end of his trip.&nbsp;

The status of this relationship has now been elevated - India and America now call their relationship 'a comprehensive global partnership'. This is a significant move - experts see this as a vow by both parties to prioritise their partnership over other partners.

The conversations between America and India will now be closely watched, both sides are expanding their defence alliance. There is broad support over the issue of terrorism.

America has endorsed India positions on issues like Kashmir and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). There is renewed momentum to settle trade differences - both sides are now considering a major agreement that could be signed before the end of this agreement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/a-new-era-of-india-us-relations-has-begun-282824">Also Read:&nbsp;A new era of India-US relations has begun</a>

President Trump would prefer that the deal comes through before the Presidential elections in November. Both sides are sending the right signals, its time for India to now push for tangible gains.

There are several outstanding issues on the list. The major one is Visas &nbsp;- a report claims that the number of Indians on the waitlist for a US Greencard rose by 35 times.

New Delhi would also expect a more aggressive push from Washington against Pakistani terror groups.

America has supported India's bid for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council, a renewed diplomatic campaign for United Nations reforms is long overdue.&nbsp;

The fact that Trump took out time for a visit to India in an election year is a victory for New Delhi.

WATCH: High Expectations From India - US alliance

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It's becoming increasingly clear that the Indo-American alliance can play a definitive role in redefining the world order in the 21st century.

Irrespective of who wields power in the White House in the coming years &nbsp;- America and China will have an uneasy relationship. In fact, more clashes between both sides can be expected in the future.

Such circumstances will lead to a greater role for India in the region. It is likely that American businesses would look at India to protect their investments.

Washington will depend on New Delhi for a security partnership to protect its interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Trump's visit has heightened expectations from the Indo-American alliance. The world now expects more from India and the United States in the coming months.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world) 
&nbsp;

India witnessed an unprecedented welcome for a foreign head of state, it was the biggest crowd that US President Donald Trump has ever addressed. India left no stone unturned to throw a grand reception for the American President.

India witnessed an unprecedented welcome for a foreign head of state, it was the biggest crowd that US President Donald Trump has ever addressed. India left no stone unturned to throw a grand reception for the American President. It's a visit that will be remembered for the pictures and the bonhomie between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit certainly overshadows all previous State visits by American Presidents. Trump used this opportunity to cement his relationship with Prime Minister by the end of his trip. The status of this relationship has now been elevated - India and America now call their relationship 'a comprehensive global partnership'. This is a significant move - experts see this as a vow by both parties to prioritise their partnership over other partners. The conversations between America and India will now be closely watched, both sides are expanding their defence alliance. There is broad support over the issue of terrorism. America has endorsed India positions on issues like Kashmir and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). There is renewed momentum to settle trade differences - both sides are now considering a major agreement that could be signed before the end of this agreement. Also Read: A new era of India-US relations has begun President Trump would prefer that the deal comes through before the Presidential elections in November. Both sides are sending the right signals, its time for India to now push for tangible gains. There are several outstanding issues on the list. The major one is Visas - a report claims that the number of Indians on the waitlist for a US Greencard rose by 35 times. New Delhi would also expect a more aggressive push from Washington against Pakistani terror groups. America has supported India's bid for a permanent seat at the UN Security Council, a renewed diplomatic campaign for United Nations reforms is long overdue. The fact that Trump took out time for a visit to India in an election year is a victory for New Delhi. WATCH: High Expectations From India - US alliance × It's becoming increasingly clear that the Indo-American alliance can play a definitive role in redefining the world order in the 21st century. Irrespective of who wields power in the White House in the coming years - America and China will have an uneasy relationship. In fact, more clashes between both sides can be expected in the future. Such circumstances will lead to a greater role for India in the region. It is likely that American businesses would look at India to protect their investments. Washington will depend on New Delhi for a security partnership to protect its interests in the Indo-Pacific region. Trump's visit has heightened expectations from the Indo-American alliance. The world now expects more from India and the United States in the coming months. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Indo-US ties can play a definitive role in redefining world order

In this segment of WION Wallet, WION's Business Correspondent Sumit Chaturvedi is in conversation with Lockheed Martin India CEO William Blair.

WION Exclusive report with Lockheed Martin India CEO | WION Wallet

WION talked to US-India Strategic Partnership Forum President Mukesh Aghi on the trade issues between India and the United States.

WION Wallet: USISPF President speaks to WION | Exclusive

US President Donald Trump's former doctor confessed to sneaking cauliflower in his mashed potatoes in an attempt to improve the president’s diet. Former White House physician Ronny Jackson told The New York Times that he regretted leaving his position before he could implement the diet and exercise regimen planned for Trump.

US President Donald Trump's former doctor confessed to sneaking cauliflower in his mashed potatoes in an attempt to improve the president’s diet. Former White House physician Ronny Jackson told The New York Times that he regretted leaving his position before he could implement the diet and exercise regimen planned for Trump. “The exercise stuff never took off as much as I wanted it to,” he said. “But we were working on his diet. We were making the ice cream less accessible, we were putting cauliflower into the mashed potatoes.” Jackson announced in an early 2018 press conference that he intended to help the president lose 10 to 15 pounds and transport an exercise bike or elliptical machine into the White House, according to the Times. The former physician left the White House after withdrawing his name for consideration as the nominee to become the Veterans Affairs secretary amid allegations of professional misconduct. He is running for a seat in Congress for Texas’s 13th District, one of the most conservative districts in the country. Jackson has touted his relationship with Trump along the campaign trail, the Times reported. The former physician served at the White House medical unit under the past three presidents.

Ex-White House doctor hid cauliflower in mashed potatoes to improve Trump's diet: Report

World leaders who visited the historic Taj Mahal

India and the United States are likely to sign a defence deal worth $3 billion for the supply of choppers for the Indian Army and Navy. President Trump spoke about the deals while addressing the "Namaste, Trump" event at a cricket stadium in Ahmedabad on Monday.

India and the United States are likely to sign a defence deal worth $3 billion for the supply of choppers for the Indian Army and Navy. President Trump spoke about the deals while addressing the "Namaste, Trump" event at a cricket stadium in Ahmedabad on Monday. "I am pleased to announce that tomorrow our representatives will sign deals to sell over $3 billion, in the absolute finest state-of-the-art military helicopters and other equipment to the Indian armed forces," the US President had said. The two sides are also likely to sign deals on traditional energy, nuclear energy, homeland security, intellectual property rights and healthcare. Trump will also hold restricted and then delegation-level bilateral talks with PM Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in the heart of Delhi. The US and India will sign agreements and then both leaders will make a joint statement. Earlier today Trump received a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

India, United States to sign a defence deal worth $3 billion 

US President Donald Trump will on Tuesday attend the <a href="Raisina Hills">official banquet</a> hosted by President Ram Nath Kovind at the&nbsp;Rashtrapati Bhavan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

What's on the menu for Donald Trump?&nbsp;

The US President will begin his dinner with edible-gold-leafed 'amuse-bouche' (French pre-appetizer).&nbsp;

Lemon coriander soup and Cajun-spiced salmon are also part of the menu.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/donald-trump-in-india-gujarati-delicacy-khaman-masala-chai-served-to-president-of-united-states-282341">Donald Trump in India: Gujarati delicacy Khaman, masala chai served to President of United States</a>

The menu also includes aloo tikki (a north Indian street food), dum guchchi matar (wild morel mushrooms preparation), raan aalishaan ( luxurious preparation of leg of lamb), dal raisina ( iconic dish named after&nbsp;Raisina Hills) and dum gosht biryani (lamb rice dish) are also part of the menu.

Hazelnut apple pie with vanilla ice cream and malpua with rabdi (sweet Indian pancake) are part of desserts that the US president will be served.&nbsp;

According to reports, Donald Trump will be received by the President at the Rampurva Bull near the Durbar Hall. More than 100 guests are expected to attend the banquet at the <a href="Raisina Hills">Rashtrapati Bhavan</a> in New Delhi on Tuesday.

Trump arrived on a two-day visit to India yesterday. The US president's packed schedule on the first day of his visit included a stop at Sabarmati Ashram to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi which was followed by a joint address of Modi and Trump at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad at an event named ‘Namaste Trump’.

The Trumps then proceeded to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal, and reached Delhi later in the day.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump will on Tuesday attend the official banquet hosted by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. What's on the menu for Donald Trump?

US President Donald Trump will on Tuesday attend the official banquet hosted by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. What's on the menu for Donald Trump? The US President will begin his dinner with edible-gold-leafed 'amuse-bouche' (French pre-appetizer). Lemon coriander soup and Cajun-spiced salmon are also part of the menu. Also read: Donald Trump in India: Gujarati delicacy Khaman, masala chai served to President of United States The menu also includes aloo tikki (a north Indian street food), dum guchchi matar (wild morel mushrooms preparation), raan aalishaan ( luxurious preparation of leg of lamb), dal raisina ( iconic dish named after Raisina Hills) and dum gosht biryani (lamb rice dish) are also part of the menu. Hazelnut apple pie with vanilla ice cream and malpua with rabdi (sweet Indian pancake) are part of desserts that the US president will be served. According to reports, Donald Trump will be received by the President at the Rampurva Bull near the Durbar Hall. More than 100 guests are expected to attend the banquet at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday. Trump arrived on a two-day visit to India yesterday. The US president's packed schedule on the first day of his visit included a stop at Sabarmati Ashram to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi which was followed by a joint address of Modi and Trump at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad at an event named ‘Namaste Trump’. The Trumps then proceeded to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal, and reached Delhi later in the day.

What's on menu for Donald Trump at Rashtrapati Bhavan banquet? 

US President Donald Trump will have a packed schedule today in New Delhi, where he arrived on Monday evening after visiting Taj Mahal.&nbsp;

The US President will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan at 10:00 am followed by a visit to Rajghat where he will pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.

<table border="1" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width: 500px;">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Time</td>
			<td>Event</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>10:00 am</td>
			<td>Reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>10:30 am</td>
			<td>Wreath-laying at Raj Ghat, New Delhi</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>11:00 am</td>
			<td>PM meets Trump in New Delhi</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>12:40 pm</td>
			<td>India and US Exchange agreements</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2:40 pm</td>
			<td>Roundtable with Indian business leaders</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>7:30 pm</td>
			<td>Trump meets President Kovind</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>10:00 pm</td>
			<td>Trump embarks for the US</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

The US President will lay the wreath at Rajghat and observe one-minute of silence.&nbsp;

This will be followed by delegation-level bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Hyderabad House.&nbsp;

This will be followed by the signing of agreements between the two sides and press statement by both the leaders. Among others, the two sides will sign deals worth $ 3 billion for the supply of choppers for the Indian Army and Navy.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, US First Lady Melania Trump will be visiting a Delhi government school in South Moti Bagh where she will review the "Happiness Class" programme implemented by the government of the capital city.

After meeting kids, she is expected to attend `Happiness Classes` started by the Delhi government.&nbsp;

In the evening, the US President will hold a presser before he drives to Rashtrapati Bhavan again for meeting President Ram Nath Kovind.

He will also attend the state banquet hosted in his honour by President Kovind.&nbsp;

Later, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will also call on the visiting US President.

Trump is scheduled to depart at 10:00 pm tonight.

US President Donald Trump will have a packed schedule today in New Delhi, where he arrived on Monday evening after visiting Taj Mahal. The US President will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan at 10:00 am followed by a visit to Rajghat where he will pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.

US President Donald Trump will have a packed schedule today in New Delhi, where he arrived on Monday evening after visiting Taj Mahal. The US President will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan at 10:00 am followed by a visit to Rajghat where he will pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi. Time Event 10:00 am Reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan 10:30 am Wreath-laying at Raj Ghat, New Delhi 11:00 am PM meets Trump in New Delhi 12:40 pm India and US Exchange agreements 2:40 pm Roundtable with Indian business leaders 7:30 pm Trump meets President Kovind 10:00 pm Trump embarks for the US The US President will lay the wreath at Rajghat and observe one-minute of silence. This will be followed by delegation-level bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Hyderabad House. This will be followed by the signing of agreements between the two sides and press statement by both the leaders. Among others, the two sides will sign deals worth $ 3 billion for the supply of choppers for the Indian Army and Navy. Meanwhile, US First Lady Melania Trump will be visiting a Delhi government school in South Moti Bagh where she will review the "Happiness Class" programme implemented by the government of the capital city. After meeting kids, she is expected to attend `Happiness Classes` started by the Delhi government. In the evening, the US President will hold a presser before he drives to Rashtrapati Bhavan again for meeting President Ram Nath Kovind. He will also attend the state banquet hosted in his honour by President Kovind. Later, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will also call on the visiting US President. Trump is scheduled to depart at 10:00 pm tonight.

A low-down on Trump's jam-packed Delhi schedule today 

Bernie Sanders, the front-runner for the Democratic US presidential nomination on Tuesday said instead of selling weapons to India, United States should partner on the issue of climate change with the aim of creating renewable energy and cutting air pollution.

"Instead of selling USD 3 billion in weapons to enrich Raytheon, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/latest-india-news/india-ahmedabad-us-committed-to-fight-terrorism-donald-trump-narendra-modi-282470">Boeing and Lockheed</a>, the United States should be partnering with India to fight climate change. We can work together to cut air pollution, create good renewable energy jobs, and save our planet," Sanders posted on Twitter.

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Instead of selling $3 billion in weapons to enrich Raytheon, Boeing and Lockheed, the United States should be partnering with India to fight climate change. 
 
We can work together to cut air pollution, create good renewable energy jobs, and save our planet. <a href="https://t.co/nqKS2CWypT">https://t.co/nqKS2CWypT</a>
— Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenSanders/status/1232060578115530760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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His tweet comes at a time when US President Donald Trump is on his maiden official trip to India where he is expected to sign agreements.

On Monday, addressing a huge gathering at Motera stadium in Ahmedabad, Trump said that US will sign deals to sell over $3 billion of "absolute finest, state-of-the-art military helicopters" and other equipment to the Indian armed forces.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-trump-what-makes-them-similar-yet-different-282473">PM Modi &amp; Trump: What makes them similar &amp; yet different</a>

ANI had earlier reported that the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Wednesday gave its nod to the acquisition of 24 US-made MH-60 Romeo multi-role helicopters worth around USD 2.5 billion for the Indian Navy.

It was reported that India and US would make an announcement regarding the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/namaste-trump-india-us-relations-are-no-longer-just-another-partnership-says-modi-282373">MH-60 Romeo choppers</a> and the six Apache attack helicopters for the Army during the visit of American President.

Meanwhile, in the run of the election year, Sanders, the Democratic presidential hopeful has been vociferous in criticising Trump`s policies, particularly those done with strategic partners in defence sectors.

On several occasions, Sanders has also advocated cutting the US defence expenditure which he deems as preposterous.

"At a time when we have massive levels of income and wealth inequality; when half of our people are living paycheck to paycheck; when more than 500,000 Americans are homeless; and when public schools throughout the country are struggling to pay their teachers a livable salary, it is time to change our national priorities, Sander was quoted as saying by Washington Post in December 2019.

Sanders represents Vermont in the US Senate and has put forward an aggressive "green New Deal" plan to deal with climate change with a proposal to invest $16.3 trillion in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean transportation, among other areas.

According to the Washington Post, Sanders wants to commit the country to achieving 100 per cent renewable energy for electricity and transportation by 2030, and the total decarbonization of the economy by 2050.

Sanders opposes nuclear power and plans to shut down all of nuclear power plants in the US within 10 years.

Bernie Sanders, the front-runner for the Democratic US presidential nomination on Tuesday said instead of selling weapons to India, United States should partner on the issue of climate change with the aim of creating renewable energy and cutting air pollution.

Bernie Sanders, the front-runner for the Democratic US presidential nomination on Tuesday said instead of selling weapons to India, United States should partner on the issue of climate change with the aim of creating renewable energy and cutting air pollution. "Instead of selling USD 3 billion in weapons to enrich Raytheon, Boeing and Lockheed, the United States should be partnering with India to fight climate change. We can work together to cut air pollution, create good renewable energy jobs, and save our planet," Sanders posted on Twitter. Instead of selling $3 billion in weapons to enrich Raytheon, Boeing and Lockheed, the United States should be partnering with India to fight climate change. We can work together to cut air pollution, create good renewable energy jobs, and save our planet. https://t.co/nqKS2CWypT — Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) February 24, 2020 × His tweet comes at a time when US President Donald Trump is on his maiden official trip to India where he is expected to sign agreements. On Monday, addressing a huge gathering at Motera stadium in Ahmedabad, Trump said that US will sign deals to sell over $3 billion of "absolute finest, state-of-the-art military helicopters" and other equipment to the Indian armed forces. Also read: PM Modi & Trump: What makes them similar & yet different ANI had earlier reported that the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Wednesday gave its nod to the acquisition of 24 US-made MH-60 Romeo multi-role helicopters worth around USD 2.5 billion for the Indian Navy. It was reported that India and US would make an announcement regarding the MH-60 Romeo choppers and the six Apache attack helicopters for the Army during the visit of American President. Meanwhile, in the run of the election year, Sanders, the Democratic presidential hopeful has been vociferous in criticising Trump`s policies, particularly those done with strategic partners in defence sectors. On several occasions, Sanders has also advocated cutting the US defence expenditure which he deems as preposterous. "At a time when we have massive levels of income and wealth inequality; when half of our people are living paycheck to paycheck; when more than 500,000 Americans are homeless; and when public schools throughout the country are struggling to pay their teachers a livable salary, it is time to change our national priorities, Sander was quoted as saying by Washington Post in December 2019. Sanders represents Vermont in the US Senate and has put forward an aggressive "green New Deal" plan to deal with climate change with a proposal to invest $16.3 trillion in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean transportation, among other areas. According to the Washington Post, Sanders wants to commit the country to achieving 100 per cent renewable energy for electricity and transportation by 2030, and the total decarbonization of the economy by 2050. Sanders opposes nuclear power and plans to shut down all of nuclear power plants in the US within 10 years.

Partner with India to fight climate change, rather than defence: Bernie Sanders

Thousands of Indians welcomed US President at Ahmedabad's Motera stadium. The Donald trump-Narendra Modi roadshow too drew quite an impressive crowd.

It will be fair to say, that President got a rockstar's welcome in India.

Successful, billionaire and a brand in himself, &nbsp;US President Donald Trump carries an aura of awe around him.

According to a Pew Research Survey, 56 per cent of Indians show confidence in the US &nbsp;President - the highest in the world. 
 
Similarities Between PM Modi &amp; US President Trump

The reason Indians love President Trump is that they see Prime Minister Narendra Modi in him.

They see a confident leader - one who is capable of governing a country, someone who is not scared to put his&nbsp;country's interests first.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/wion-edit-a-new-dawn-for-india-us-ties-282601">Also Read: A new dawn for India-US ties</a>

And above all, Indians love the idea of a leader who is far from conventional - just like their own Prime Minister. 
 
India adores&nbsp;strong leaders and it views Trump as the perfect balance to PM Modi as New Delhi expands its global footprint.

President Trump's Policies

In the last few years, Trump has not really been India's best friend when it comes to trade or jobs. The US President has expanded aluminium and trade tariffs.

He has stripped India of its preferential trading partner status and also tightened the H1B Visa norms.

Under normal circumstances, Trump's policies would have landed him in India's bad books, but what has happened is quite the opposite.

Indians have grown all the more fond of America's Commander-in-Chief, their confidence in him has jumped from 14 &nbsp;to 56 per cent in 3 years. 
 
WATCH:&nbsp;

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What Indians see in Trump is a leader who is determined to battle unemployment and fight the terror. Indians admire Trump's record of neutralising Islamic State Leader - al-Baghdadi, and son of Al-Qaeda Leader, Hamza bin Laden.

Donald Trump's narrative of combating terror, securing borders and improving his country's state of affairs brings him very close to the hearts of Indians.

These are the very promises that won Prime Minister Narendra Modi a historic mandate in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Trump's 'Make America Great Again' promise echoes Modi's 'Acche Din'. 
 
At the end of the day, India's growing love for the US President tells the tale of the growing closeness between the two nations. 
 
The fondness grows every time Trump and Modi share another hug and every time the two leaders celebrate each other at the global stage.

Thousands of Indians welcomed US President at Ahmedabad's Motera stadium. The Donald trump-Narendra Modi roadshow too drew quite an impressive crowd. It will be fair to say, that President got a rockstar's welcome in India.

Thousands of Indians welcomed US President at Ahmedabad's Motera stadium. The Donald trump-Narendra Modi roadshow too drew quite an impressive crowd. It will be fair to say, that President got a rockstar's welcome in India. Successful, billionaire and a brand in himself, US President Donald Trump carries an aura of awe around him. According to a Pew Research Survey, 56 per cent of Indians show confidence in the US President - the highest in the world. Similarities Between PM Modi & US President Trump The reason Indians love President Trump is that they see Prime Minister Narendra Modi in him. They see a confident leader - one who is capable of governing a country, someone who is not scared to put his country's interests first. Also Read: A new dawn for India-US ties And above all, Indians love the idea of a leader who is far from conventional - just like their own Prime Minister. India adores strong leaders and it views Trump as the perfect balance to PM Modi as New Delhi expands its global footprint. President Trump's Policies In the last few years, Trump has not really been India's best friend when it comes to trade or jobs. The US President has expanded aluminium and trade tariffs. He has stripped India of its preferential trading partner status and also tightened the H1B Visa norms. Under normal circumstances, Trump's policies would have landed him in India's bad books, but what has happened is quite the opposite. Indians have grown all the more fond of America's Commander-in-Chief, their confidence in him has jumped from 14 to 56 per cent in 3 years. WATCH: × What Indians see in Trump is a leader who is determined to battle unemployment and fight the terror. Indians admire Trump's record of neutralising Islamic State Leader - al-Baghdadi, and son of Al-Qaeda Leader, Hamza bin Laden. Donald Trump's narrative of combating terror, securing borders and improving his country's state of affairs brings him very close to the hearts of Indians. These are the very promises that won Prime Minister Narendra Modi a historic mandate in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Trump's 'Make America Great Again' promise echoes Modi's 'Acche Din'. At the end of the day, India's growing love for the US President tells the tale of the growing closeness between the two nations. The fondness grows every time Trump and Modi share another hug and every time the two leaders celebrate each other at the global stage.

Here's why Indians love US President Donald Trump

The expanding defence partnership is now a significant pillar in the Indo-American ties. India's defence engagement with America is touching new heights, there might be stumbling blocks on the trade front, but there is steady progress on defence deals.

During Donald Trump's visit, India has signed to two key contracts - First, New Delhi is buying 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters worth 2.6 billion dollars.

Another contract for six Apache helicopters has been signed as well.

India and America are stepping up their defence cooperation - the US now conducts the maximum number of military exercises with India. Last year, India and America conducted their first land, sea and air exercise.

In the last century, the picture was quite different - India was largely dependent on the erstwhile Soviet Union for its arms supplies.

Even today, a lot of the Indian defence arsenal dates back to that era. While Russia still remains an ally, India is buying more American arms. In 11 years, India's defence purchases from America has gone from zero to 18 billion in 2019.&nbsp;

America and India share concerns about Beijing's growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. Ports built by China, which are part of the Belt and Road initiative, have sprung up in the Indian subcontinent.

It's one of the major reasons why India and America are expanding their defence ties. There is an increased focus on interoperability. or the ability of defence forces on both sides to work together. 
&nbsp; 
Despite the close relationship, some issues remain - America was miffed when India decided to ink a deal with Russia to buy the S-400 missile defence system.

So far, the Americans have managed to put their concerns aside and work with India.

Considering Prime Minister Modi's personal chemistry with Donald Trump, India is in a position to maintain a strong defence partnership with the United States.

The expanding defence partnership is now a significant pillar in the Indo-American ties. India's defence engagement with America is touching new heights, there might be stumbling blocks on the trade front, but there is steady progress on defence deals.

The expanding defence partnership is now a significant pillar in the Indo-American ties. India's defence engagement with America is touching new heights, there might be stumbling blocks on the trade front, but there is steady progress on defence deals. During Donald Trump's visit, India has signed to two key contracts - First, New Delhi is buying 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters worth 2.6 billion dollars. Another contract for six Apache helicopters has been signed as well. India and America are stepping up their defence cooperation - the US now conducts the maximum number of military exercises with India. Last year, India and America conducted their first land, sea and air exercise. In the last century, the picture was quite different - India was largely dependent on the erstwhile Soviet Union for its arms supplies. Even today, a lot of the Indian defence arsenal dates back to that era. While Russia still remains an ally, India is buying more American arms. In 11 years, India's defence purchases from America has gone from zero to 18 billion in 2019. America and India share concerns about Beijing's growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. Ports built by China, which are part of the Belt and Road initiative, have sprung up in the Indian subcontinent. It's one of the major reasons why India and America are expanding their defence ties. There is an increased focus on interoperability. or the ability of defence forces on both sides to work together. Despite the close relationship, some issues remain - America was miffed when India decided to ink a deal with Russia to buy the S-400 missile defence system. So far, the Americans have managed to put their concerns aside and work with India. Considering Prime Minister Modi's personal chemistry with Donald Trump, India is in a position to maintain a strong defence partnership with the United States.

Expanding defence partnership a significant pillar in Indo-US ties

Massive crowds, enthusiastic statements and cheerful dances and songs were the highlights of Donald Trump's first day of India visit. The leaders of both nations PM Modi and Trump greatly praised each other and stressed on strong Indo-US ties. Trump spoke on defence, terrorism and a lot more. So here are the takeaways from day one of Trump's India trip.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/latest-india-news/ddlj-spinning-charkha-and-garba-dance-five-developments-from-donald-trumps-india-visit-so-far-narendra-modi-282417">DDLJ, spinning charkha and Garba dance: Five developments from Donald Trump's India visit so far</a>

1. 3 billion dollars defence deal

Addressing a huge rally at Motera stadium, Trump said that the US is keen on selling India with some of the best and most feared military equipment. He also said that a 3 billion USD defence deal would be signed tomorrow.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-trump-what-makes-them-similar-yet-different-282473">PM Modi &amp; Trump: What makes them similar &amp; yet different</a>

2. Fight against terrorism

Trump also said that both countries are committed to fighting terrorism, adding that his administration is working with Pakistan to crack down on terror groups. "The United States and India are also firmly united in our iron-clad resolve to defend our citizens from the threat of radical Islamic terrorism," Trump said. He also said that both countries have suffered the pain and turmoil caused by terrorism.

3. 'Fantastic' trade deal

Before starting his visit, Washington said that the trade deal is will not be signed during the US president's visit. Some comments from the US also suggested that trade tensions are not likely to ease anytime soon. However, during his speech, Trump said that both the US and India are in the early stages of discussion on the trade deal to reduce investment barriers. Trump hoped that US and India could pull off a "fantastic trade" deal. He also described PM Modi as "tough negotiator".

4. Long Live India-US partnership

Trump greatly praised PM Modi and described him as "tremendously successful leader". He also said that India is a "miracle of a democracy" and a "tale of astounding progress". PM Modi, in his speech, drew parallels between India US, saying&nbsp;the former taking pride in 'Statue of Liberty' and India in 'Statue of Unity'. Remembering his 'Howdi Modi' event, PM Modi said now India is welcoming Trump with 'Namaste Trump'. PM also raised slogans of "Long live, India-US relations". &nbsp; &nbsp;

5. Trump-Modi camaraderie

Trump's visit to India once again highlighted that even though both nations have trade and other important issues that need immediate attention, still personal relations between both Trump and Modi remain untouched.

Trump recognised PM Modi's humble beginnings and described him as a "living proof" that through hard work and devotion, Indians could achieve anything. Trump also lauded Modi for making significant reforms in the country. PM Modi also referred to Trump as "my friend, India's friend".

Before the visit too, Trump told reporters that the US is not treated well by India but he likes PM Modi a lot. &nbsp;

Massive crowds, enthusiastic statements and cheerful dances and songs were the highlights of Donald Trump's first day of India visit. The leaders of both nations PM Modi and Trump greatly praised each other and stressed on strong Indo-US ties.

Massive crowds, enthusiastic statements and cheerful dances and songs were the highlights of Donald Trump's first day of India visit. The leaders of both nations PM Modi and Trump greatly praised each other and stressed on strong Indo-US ties. Trump spoke on defence, terrorism and a lot more. So here are the takeaways from day one of Trump's India trip. Also read: DDLJ, spinning charkha and Garba dance: Five developments from Donald Trump's India visit so far 1. 3 billion dollars defence deal Addressing a huge rally at Motera stadium, Trump said that the US is keen on selling India with some of the best and most feared military equipment. He also said that a 3 billion USD defence deal would be signed tomorrow. Also read: PM Modi & Trump: What makes them similar & yet different 2. Fight against terrorism Trump also said that both countries are committed to fighting terrorism, adding that his administration is working with Pakistan to crack down on terror groups. "The United States and India are also firmly united in our iron-clad resolve to defend our citizens from the threat of radical Islamic terrorism," Trump said. He also said that both countries have suffered the pain and turmoil caused by terrorism. 3. 'Fantastic' trade deal Before starting his visit, Washington said that the trade deal is will not be signed during the US president's visit. Some comments from the US also suggested that trade tensions are not likely to ease anytime soon. However, during his speech, Trump said that both the US and India are in the early stages of discussion on the trade deal to reduce investment barriers. Trump hoped that US and India could pull off a "fantastic trade" deal. He also described PM Modi as "tough negotiator". 4. Long Live India-US partnership Trump greatly praised PM Modi and described him as "tremendously successful leader". He also said that India is a "miracle of a democracy" and a "tale of astounding progress". PM Modi, in his speech, drew parallels between India US, saying the former taking pride in 'Statue of Liberty' and India in 'Statue of Unity'. Remembering his 'Howdi Modi' event, PM Modi said now India is welcoming Trump with 'Namaste Trump'. PM also raised slogans of "Long live, India-US relations". 5. Trump-Modi camaraderie Trump's visit to India once again highlighted that even though both nations have trade and other important issues that need immediate attention, still personal relations between both Trump and Modi remain untouched. Trump recognised PM Modi's humble beginnings and described him as a "living proof" that through hard work and devotion, Indians could achieve anything. Trump also lauded Modi for making significant reforms in the country. PM Modi also referred to Trump as "my friend, India's friend". Before the visit too, Trump told reporters that the US is not treated well by India but he likes PM Modi a lot.

Five key takeaways from day 1 of Donald Trump's India trip

In this Video You will get to know the menu prepared for Donald Trump's Dinner in President House.In Rashtrapati Bhawan he will be presented with a spread that will give him a taste of Indian food, but with a hint of American spices so it suits his palate.

Know the Menu of Donald Trump's Dinner at President House

Responding to India's growing concern about terrorism emanating from Pakistan soil, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that his country was working ''productively'' with Pakistan to confront terrorists operating&nbsp;on its soil. 
&nbsp; 
''In our discussions, PM Modi and I affirmed our two countries' commitment to protecting our citizens from 'radical Islamic terrorism'. In this effort, the US is also working productively with Pakistan to confront terrorists who operate on its soil,'' Trump said.

India and the United States also held discussions on the importance of a secure 5G wireless network.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/latest-india-news/india-ahmedabad-us-committed-to-fight-terrorism-donald-trump-narendra-modi-282470">India, US committed to fighting terrorism, says President Trump</a>

''We discussed the importance of a secure 5G wireless network and the need for this emerging technology to be a tool for freedom, progress, prosperity, not to do anything with where it could be even conceived as a conduit for suppression and censorship,'' he said.

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US President Donald Trump: In our discussions, PM Modi and I affirmed our two countries' commitment to protecting our citizens from radical Islamic terrorism. In this effort the US is also working productively with Pakistan to confront terrorists who operate on its soil. <a href="https://t.co/DFrZZO8wjR">pic.twitter.com/DFrZZO8wjR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1232217538274029568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The US has been trying to dissuade countries against using&nbsp;Chinese telecom giant Huawei's 5G equipments. The US has also accused the Chinese company of spying for the Chinese government and said its equipments posed a security risk.&nbsp;

India and the US also signed a defence deal worth $ 3 billion on the occasion.&nbsp;

''We expanded our defence cooperation with agreements for India to purchase more than US$ 3 Bn of advanced American military equipment, including Apache &amp; MH-60 Romeo Helicopters. These will enhance our joint defence capabilities,'' Trump said.

Both Trump and Modi also sounded optimistic about a trade deal between the two countries.&nbsp;

''Our commerce ministers have had positive talks on trade. Both of us have decided that our teams should give legal shape to these trade talks. We also agreed to open negotiations on a big trade deal,'' Modi said.

Modi further said that India and the US have resolved to step up efforts to make those who support terrorism, responsible.

''Today we discussed every important aspect of US-India partnership, be it defence and security, energy strategic partnership, trade or people to people ties. The strengthening in defence ties between India and US is an important aspect of our partnership,'' Modi said.

Responding to India's growing concern about terrorism emanating from Pakistan soil, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that his country was working ''productively'' with Pakistan to confront terrorists operating on its soil.

Responding to India's growing concern about terrorism emanating from Pakistan soil, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that his country was working ''productively'' with Pakistan to confront terrorists operating on its soil. ''In our discussions, PM Modi and I affirmed our two countries' commitment to protecting our citizens from 'radical Islamic terrorism'. In this effort, the US is also working productively with Pakistan to confront terrorists who operate on its soil,'' Trump said. India and the United States also held discussions on the importance of a secure 5G wireless network. Also read: India, US committed to fighting terrorism, says President Trump ''We discussed the importance of a secure 5G wireless network and the need for this emerging technology to be a tool for freedom, progress, prosperity, not to do anything with where it could be even conceived as a conduit for suppression and censorship,'' he said. US President Donald Trump: In our discussions, PM Modi and I affirmed our two countries' commitment to protecting our citizens from radical Islamic terrorism. In this effort the US is also working productively with Pakistan to confront terrorists who operate on its soil. pic.twitter.com/DFrZZO8wjR — ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2020 × The US has been trying to dissuade countries against using Chinese telecom giant Huawei's 5G equipments. The US has also accused the Chinese company of spying for the Chinese government and said its equipments posed a security risk. India and the US also signed a defence deal worth $ 3 billion on the occasion. ''We expanded our defence cooperation with agreements for India to purchase more than US$ 3 Bn of advanced American military equipment, including Apache & MH-60 Romeo Helicopters. These will enhance our joint defence capabilities,'' Trump said. Both Trump and Modi also sounded optimistic about a trade deal between the two countries. ''Our commerce ministers have had positive talks on trade. Both of us have decided that our teams should give legal shape to these trade talks. We also agreed to open negotiations on a big trade deal,'' Modi said. Modi further said that India and the US have resolved to step up efforts to make those who support terrorism, responsible. ''Today we discussed every important aspect of US-India partnership, be it defence and security, energy strategic partnership, trade or people to people ties. The strengthening in defence ties between India and US is an important aspect of our partnership,'' Modi said.

US working 'productively' with Pakistan to confront terrorists operating on its soil: Trump 

When US President Donald Trump came to power in 2016, he was the ultimate outsider. A reality TV star who found himself running one of the most powerful nations in the world.

Britain hosted a lavish state dinner at the Buckingham Palace for the Trumps - the classic British way to make any leader feel special.

The French invited Trump for Bastille Day which was quite effective. The parade inspired Trump to host one for himself in America-Japan invited Trump to become the first foreign leader to visit their new emperor.

The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is following the same playbook. A huge crowd gathered at Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad for the 'Namaste Trump' event.

Are we witnessing a new chapter in Indo-American ties? The jury is still out on that. But, now is the best time to expand this relationship.&nbsp;

America and India agree that China needs to be contained. China's economy is on the backfoot and Beijing is preoccupied with the coronavirus.

WATCH: What's the future of India-US ties 
&nbsp;

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It gives a small window of opportunity to both sides. There is a growing partnership, both in defence cooperation, as well as, arms trade.

Both sides have the same position on the range of issues, whether its the Indo-Pacific or China, or even South Asia as a whole.

India has received steady support from America on the issue of terrorism. A deeper Indo-US relationship makes a lot of sense. But, several complications stand in the way.

First, we have the trade situation - just like China, India too has found itself on the bitter end of Trump's 'America First' plans.

This has put the trade relationship under threat. America's on-off&nbsp;relationship with Pakistan irks India. In recent months, Trump has leaned on Imran Khan for a peace deal in Afghanistan.

Just before leaving for India, the American President Donald Trump said he is ready to sign a deal with the Taliban - something that is apparently being negotiated from Islamabad.

Despite the concerns, India has gone all out to throw a grand reception for Trump.

The events of today overshadow all previous state visits by American President to India.

It signals that New Delhi is willing to work with America for the long term. Is Trump willing to deal? that remains to be seen.

This state visit is an opportunity for both sides to come up with a strategy to re-shape not only their relationship but the geopolitics of the 21st century.

There is immense scope, but both sides need to find a way to work together. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

When US President Donald Trump came to power in 2016, he was the ultimate outsider. A reality TV star who found himself running one of the most powerful nations in the world.

When US President Donald Trump came to power in 2016, he was the ultimate outsider. A reality TV star who found himself running one of the most powerful nations in the world. Britain hosted a lavish state dinner at the Buckingham Palace for the Trumps - the classic British way to make any leader feel special. The French invited Trump for Bastille Day which was quite effective. The parade inspired Trump to host one for himself in America-Japan invited Trump to become the first foreign leader to visit their new emperor. The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is following the same playbook. A huge crowd gathered at Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad for the 'Namaste Trump' event. Are we witnessing a new chapter in Indo-American ties? The jury is still out on that. But, now is the best time to expand this relationship. America and India agree that China needs to be contained. China's economy is on the backfoot and Beijing is preoccupied with the coronavirus. WATCH: What's the future of India-US ties × It gives a small window of opportunity to both sides. There is a growing partnership, both in defence cooperation, as well as, arms trade. Both sides have the same position on the range of issues, whether its the Indo-Pacific or China, or even South Asia as a whole. India has received steady support from America on the issue of terrorism. A deeper Indo-US relationship makes a lot of sense. But, several complications stand in the way. First, we have the trade situation - just like China, India too has found itself on the bitter end of Trump's 'America First' plans. This has put the trade relationship under threat. America's on-off relationship with Pakistan irks India. In recent months, Trump has leaned on Imran Khan for a peace deal in Afghanistan. Just before leaving for India, the American President Donald Trump said he is ready to sign a deal with the Taliban - something that is apparently being negotiated from Islamabad. Despite the concerns, India has gone all out to throw a grand reception for Trump. The events of today overshadow all previous state visits by American President to India. It signals that New Delhi is willing to work with America for the long term. Is Trump willing to deal? that remains to be seen. This state visit is an opportunity for both sides to come up with a strategy to re-shape not only their relationship but the geopolitics of the 21st century. There is immense scope, but both sides need to find a way to work together. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: A new dawn for India-US ties

US President Donald Trump touched upon various topics, including trade and terrorism, during his speech at the 'Namaste Trump' event in Ahmedabad. Watch Arun Singh's, Former Ambassador to the United States, analysis.

Video Analysis: Key takeaways from US President Donald Trump's address at 'Namaste Trump' event

Much of the global attention is centred on the United States President Donald Trump’s maiden visit to India from 24-25 February. With a commitment to promote “Major Defense Partnership”, the India-US relations is being envisioned with the changing course of Indo-Pacific narrative. Centred around the “free, open and inclusive” Indo-Pacific construct, both sides aim to advance their partnership to defend a rules-based order that stands increasingly tested at present ahead of China’s assertive rise. 

The defence of the rules-based order in Indo-Pacific is a gigantic task as it will be heavily dependent on a futuristic robust India-US Indo-Pacific partnership. A relationship that is often perceived as the custodian guardian of the free or democratic world, India and the US would require a concrete action plan to follow it through. The quest for wealth, welfare and win – the three key W’s - should be their guiding light. More specifically, attention will be diverted to ensuring energy, civil nuclear cooperation, intellectual property rights, homeland security and science and space technology. Creating a wealth of strategic infrastructure, defending democratic regimes that would promote the welfare for a free-thinking world, and the win-win strategy to defend their respective national security interests through a stronger defence partnership would be key to India-US Indo-Pacific partnership. 

This trip by the US President is principally significant because it is almost the end of Trump’s term as the President of the US and while he has visited most of its allies in Asia, India has been conspicuously absent from that list. Trade has also remained an obstacle in their relations, with the recent removal of India from the US’s special trade status under the Generalised System of Preferences&nbsp;(GSP), to which India retaliated by imposing tariffs on many American exports. An array of such trade differences – ranging from tariff barriers, agricultural, medical trading and e-commerce – have dimmed whatever possibilities there were for a trade deal. While these issues are not unmanageable, it requires quite some strategic long-term rationalization.

Once an isolated economy, China at present has emerged to be the most integrated economy in the world. Beijing emerging as a neo-imperialist power is no more a remote possibility, considering the multibillion-dollar investments in transportation, port building and infrastructure building that Xi Jinping’s China has been making voraciously. Each of the these invites merits of discussion between India and the US, given their respective strategic interest that have been at stake with China’s rising profile in Indo-Pacific. 

The expansion of Chinese foreign trade across the Indo-Pacific is one important chapter that India-US partnership needs to take cognizance of. Under the flagship Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI), Chinese capital and enterprises have influenced the democratic regimes in Indo-Pacific through attractive financial packages and investments. Such a development that is increasingly testing the free world thinking in Indo-Pacific must encourage India and the US to have an envisioned cooperation that will promote economic partnership with pro-democratic regimes in the region. 

Under President Donald Trump, the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has pursued a concentrated effort to launch a number of initiatives. Indeed, the last few years have witnessed Trump’s Indo-Pacific outlook getting enhanced through both government and private wide initiatives – such as the Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership (DCCP), the Infrastructure Transaction and Assistant Network (ITAN) and the Asia Enhancing Development and Growth through Energy (AsiaEdge), ARIA, Indo-Pacific Transparency Initiative and the Blue-Dot Network. The USTDA seems pretty active in taking initiatives that tend to challenge the BRI. 

Guised as policies shaped solely with the outlook of fulfilling the region’s demand for quality infrastructure, these American official policies are the defining focus of the US official clap-back to the Chinese initiatives in the region. More importantly, the USTDA, as the official arm of the America’s infrastructure development programs in Indo-Pacific, exhibits a leadership foresight. Such leadership foresight comes as the first line of defense against competition from rival economies in the region such as China. However, to what extent can New Delhi collaborate and extract benefits from such initiatives requires deeper planning. This actually becomes more pertinent when we observe the strong reservations the Indian government has been holding against the BRI for the longest time. More importantly with opportunities aplenty, New Delhi must decide if such a cooperation with the US is better forged bilaterally, or multilaterally with other like-minded countries. 

From India’s point of view, these official American initiatives should not constrain but unlock new opportunities to pursue its strategic interests in the region. The Blue Dot Network (BDN) that has arrived more from the conglomeration of both private-public investment cooperation should equally open the scope of cooperation for India. As a multi-stake holder initiative, the Blue Dot Network brings together the US Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) in a public-private partnership model. 

Since economic pursuit seems to be the make or break factor in India-US ties, holding more concrete meetings between political representatives should accord priority to address the ever-enlarging disputes on economic domain between the two sides. India could easily initiate this step, and it could be symbolic too – a counter to Trump calling India the “tariff king” and accusing it of always dragging its feet when it comes to trade deals. 

An action plan that aims to promote quality infrastructure and connectivity in Indo-Pacific should encourage a concrete discussion between India and the US during Trump’s visit. Many might see India’s partaking in the Blue-Dot Network as an overture equivalent to accepting or partaking in America’s alliance network. Such a decision should not however override India’s national security interests, which stand challenged by China’s revisionist initiatives in the region, be it from port building networks to maritime bases. Therefore, a soft partaking for India with the Blue-Dot Network should be explored during Trump’s visit to India. 

Not to overlook, the Blue-Dot Network echoes the strategic intent that the Quad (Australia, India, Japan and the United States) process would like to promote in the region. As a business extension, it replicates Barack Obama’s vision that the US promoted through the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the ‘pivot to Asia’ strategy. India was emerging as a key partner for the US in the ‘pivot to Asia’ strategy, even though New Delhi was never considered to be a part of the TPP framework of economic partnership. However, now, the post TPP and the post Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) period has built an appropriate strategic context for the US and India to have a renewed concrete bilateral understanding on these issues. India can take its time; it neither has to formally join the Blue-Dot Network nor has to endorse it, as it might be detrimental to its foreign policy strategy of strategic autonomy and non-alignment. 

As their pledge for partnership in the Indo-Pacific has increased post the two-plus-two ministerial summits, both India and the US need a more concentrated engagement through a focused action plan in the field of connectivity, infrastructure and maritime security. President Trump’s visit to India must encourage New Delhi to engage in a concrete discussion and planning on how to offer a strategic direction to such an envisioned Partnership that will increasingly influence the future trajectory of Indo-Pacific. 

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Much of the global attention is centred on the United States President Donald Trump’s maiden visit to India from 24-25 February. With a commitment to promote “Major Defense Partnership”, the India-US relations is being envisioned with the changing course of Indo-Pacific narrative.

Much of the global attention is centred on the United States President Donald Trump’s maiden visit to India from 24-25 February. With a commitment to promote “Major Defense Partnership”, the India-US relations is being envisioned with the changing course of Indo-Pacific narrative. Centred around the “free, open and inclusive” Indo-Pacific construct, both sides aim to advance their partnership to defend a rules-based order that stands increasingly tested at present ahead of China’s assertive rise. The defence of the rules-based order in Indo-Pacific is a gigantic task as it will be heavily dependent on a futuristic robust India-US Indo-Pacific partnership. A relationship that is often perceived as the custodian guardian of the free or democratic world, India and the US would require a concrete action plan to follow it through. The quest for wealth, welfare and win – the three key W’s - should be their guiding light. More specifically, attention will be diverted to ensuring energy, civil nuclear cooperation, intellectual property rights, homeland security and science and space technology. Creating a wealth of strategic infrastructure, defending democratic regimes that would promote the welfare for a free-thinking world, and the win-win strategy to defend their respective national security interests through a stronger defence partnership would be key to India-US Indo-Pacific partnership. This trip by the US President is principally significant because it is almost the end of Trump’s term as the President of the US and while he has visited most of its allies in Asia, India has been conspicuously absent from that list. Trade has also remained an obstacle in their relations, with the recent removal of India from the US’s special trade status under the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP), to which India retaliated by imposing tariffs on many American exports. An array of such trade differences – ranging from tariff barriers, agricultural, medical trading and e-commerce – have dimmed whatever possibilities there were for a trade deal. While these issues are not unmanageable, it requires quite some strategic long-term rationalization. Once an isolated economy, China at present has emerged to be the most integrated economy in the world. Beijing emerging as a neo-imperialist power is no more a remote possibility, considering the multibillion-dollar investments in transportation, port building and infrastructure building that Xi Jinping’s China has been making voraciously. Each of the these invites merits of discussion between India and the US, given their respective strategic interest that have been at stake with China’s rising profile in Indo-Pacific. The expansion of Chinese foreign trade across the Indo-Pacific is one important chapter that India-US partnership needs to take cognizance of. Under the flagship Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI), Chinese capital and enterprises have influenced the democratic regimes in Indo-Pacific through attractive financial packages and investments. Such a development that is increasingly testing the free world thinking in Indo-Pacific must encourage India and the US to have an envisioned cooperation that will promote economic partnership with pro-democratic regimes in the region. Under President Donald Trump, the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has pursued a concentrated effort to launch a number of initiatives. Indeed, the last few years have witnessed Trump’s Indo-Pacific outlook getting enhanced through both government and private wide initiatives – such as the Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership (DCCP), the Infrastructure Transaction and Assistant Network (ITAN) and the Asia Enhancing Development and Growth through Energy (AsiaEdge), ARIA, Indo-Pacific Transparency Initiative and the Blue-Dot Network. The USTDA seems pretty active in taking initiatives that tend to challenge the BRI. Guised as policies shaped solely with the outlook of fulfilling the region’s demand for quality infrastructure, these American official policies are the defining focus of the US official clap-back to the Chinese initiatives in the region. More importantly, the USTDA, as the official arm of the America’s infrastructure development programs in Indo-Pacific, exhibits a leadership foresight. Such leadership foresight comes as the first line of defense against competition from rival economies in the region such as China. However, to what extent can New Delhi collaborate and extract benefits from such initiatives requires deeper planning. This actually becomes more pertinent when we observe the strong reservations the Indian government has been holding against the BRI for the longest time. More importantly with opportunities aplenty, New Delhi must decide if such a cooperation with the US is better forged bilaterally, or multilaterally with other like-minded countries. From India’s point of view, these official American initiatives should not constrain but unlock new opportunities to pursue its strategic interests in the region. The Blue Dot Network (BDN) that has arrived more from the conglomeration of both private-public investment cooperation should equally open the scope of cooperation for India. As a multi-stake holder initiative, the Blue Dot Network brings together the US Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) in a public-private partnership model. Since economic pursuit seems to be the make or break factor in India-US ties, holding more concrete meetings between political representatives should accord priority to address the ever-enlarging disputes on economic domain between the two sides. India could easily initiate this step, and it could be symbolic too – a counter to Trump calling India the “tariff king” and accusing it of always dragging its feet when it comes to trade deals. An action plan that aims to promote quality infrastructure and connectivity in Indo-Pacific should encourage a concrete discussion between India and the US during Trump’s visit. Many might see India’s partaking in the Blue-Dot Network as an overture equivalent to accepting or partaking in America’s alliance network. Such a decision should not however override India’s national security interests, which stand challenged by China’s revisionist initiatives in the region, be it from port building networks to maritime bases. Therefore, a soft partaking for India with the Blue-Dot Network should be explored during Trump’s visit to India. Not to overlook, the Blue-Dot Network echoes the strategic intent that the Quad (Australia, India, Japan and the United States) process would like to promote in the region. As a business extension, it replicates Barack Obama’s vision that the US promoted through the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the ‘pivot to Asia’ strategy. India was emerging as a key partner for the US in the ‘pivot to Asia’ strategy, even though New Delhi was never considered to be a part of the TPP framework of economic partnership. However, now, the post TPP and the post Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) period has built an appropriate strategic context for the US and India to have a renewed concrete bilateral understanding on these issues. India can take its time; it neither has to formally join the Blue-Dot Network nor has to endorse it, as it might be detrimental to its foreign policy strategy of strategic autonomy and non-alignment. As their pledge for partnership in the Indo-Pacific has increased post the two-plus-two ministerial summits, both India and the US need a more concentrated engagement through a focused action plan in the field of connectivity, infrastructure and maritime security. President Trump’s visit to India must encourage New Delhi to engage in a concrete discussion and planning on how to offer a strategic direction to such an envisioned Partnership that will increasingly influence the future trajectory of Indo-Pacific. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Wealth, welfare and win must guide India-US Indo-Pacific partnership 

US President Donald Trump arrived in India on a two-day visit on Monday. Trump touched down at Ahmedabad Airport around 11:40 am. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the US president with a hug shortly after his arrival.

US President Donald Trump arrived in India on a two-day visit on Monday. Trump touched down at Ahmedabad Airport around 11:40 am. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the US president with a hug shortly after his arrival. Trump was accorded a cultural welcome at the airport. Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be holding a joint rally 'Namaste Trump' at the newly constructed Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad. 'Namaste Trump' will be similar to the landmark 'Howdy, Modi!' event hosted by the Indian-American community in honour of Prime Minister Modi during his visit to Houston in September 2019, said an official. Trump will be visiting the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad as part of his itinerary before heading to Agra to visit Taj Mahal. Sabarmati Ashram was a key base of Mahatma Gandhi during the freedom struggle. He lived there between 1917 and 1930. Trump will spend some time in the Sabarmati Ashram before heading towards the Motera stadium to participate in the 'Namaste Trump' event later today.

US President Trump arrives in India on a two-day visit

US President Donald Trump kicked off his India visit today. The two-day trip was expected to be action-packed and such was the case as Trump along with the First Lady Melania Trump visited Sabarmati Ashram and Motera stadium in Ahmedabad, Taj Mahal in Agra, before reaching Delhi&nbsp;late in the evening. Both Trump and PM Narendra Modi hailed each other's leadership and celebrated India-US ties. So, let's take a look at how international media reported on Trump's India visit.

New York Times

<img alt="New York Times" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1cdb0497-6f9c-4760-9b3a-ec3e887b95a0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/p7mBJb25.jpg" />

'America Loves India,' Trump Declares at Rally With Modi

The America-based&nbsp;publication called the Ahmedabad event as a "campaign-style rally in a 110,000-seat cricket stadium that illustrated the populist bond between the two men and impressed a president who revels in spectacle". The daily said that Trump "betrayed unfamiliarity" with the country and criticised his accent as he tried to speak the local language.

Al Jazeera

<blockquote>
<img alt="Al Jazeera" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dd9c6f83-684a-4afe-a4de-d80e2ba99cb9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Io0YvzZl.jpg" />
</blockquote>

'America loves India': Trump and Modi hail India-US ties

The Qatar-based publication said that Trump addressed a massive rally that is "big on photo opportunities but likely short on substance".

The Guardian

<img alt="The Guardian" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="27d4bf1d-9acc-45b6-82ce-41d64a3ba327" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/nP71Hoiw.jpg" />

'Namaste Trump': India&nbsp;welcomes US president at Modi rally

The London-based news website said that massive event in Ahmedabad was the platform for Trump and Modi to showcase their "enthusiastically friendly relationship". "The effusive bond between the two leaders was on full display," The Guardian said,&nbsp;as both leaders greatly praised each other.

The Guardian also said that though the rally fell short of Trump's claim of a crowd of 7 million, it is the largest gathering that Trump has ever addressed.&nbsp;

CNN

<img alt="CNN" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e0207443-ee27-404a-ae53-5ebc314bc012" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/QpbZVE1r.jpg" />

Trump lands in India and feels the love

The US-based media house said that though a trade&nbsp; deal looks unlikely, Trump was "more than happy to bask in the type of adulation that doesn't typically follow him when he travels abroad". "At regular intervals throughout New Delhi and Ahmedabad, larger-than-life images of the two men are plastered on signs and posts", CNN added.&nbsp;

BBC

<img alt="BBC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01c40cb8-5d20-4dce-b59e-c631ef9fb165" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/StQRrDnM.jpg" />

Taj Mahal: US President Donald Trump visits India's 'monument of love'

UK's BBC said that Trump "received an exuberant welcome" in the city of Agra. BBC also noted Trump struggled to pronounce Indian words that include name of Ahmedabad and Swami Vivekananda. Trump also called&nbsp; ancient texts Vedas as 'Vestas', BBC added. &nbsp;

US President Donald Trump kicked off his India visit today. The two-day trip was expected to be action-packed and such was the case as Trump along with the First Lady Melania Trump visited Sabarmati Ashram and Motera stadium in Ahmedabad, Taj Mahal in Agra, before reaching Delhi late in the evening.

US President Donald Trump kicked off his India visit today. The two-day trip was expected to be action-packed and such was the case as Trump along with the First Lady Melania Trump visited Sabarmati Ashram and Motera stadium in Ahmedabad, Taj Mahal in Agra, before reaching Delhi late in the evening. Both Trump and PM Narendra Modi hailed each other's leadership and celebrated India-US ties. So, let's take a look at how international media reported on Trump's India visit. New York Times 'America Loves India,' Trump Declares at Rally With Modi The America-based publication called the Ahmedabad event as a "campaign-style rally in a 110,000-seat cricket stadium that illustrated the populist bond between the two men and impressed a president who revels in spectacle". The daily said that Trump "betrayed unfamiliarity" with the country and criticised his accent as he tried to speak the local language. Al Jazeera 'America loves India': Trump and Modi hail India-US ties The Qatar-based publication said that Trump addressed a massive rally that is "big on photo opportunities but likely short on substance". The Guardian 'Namaste Trump': India welcomes US president at Modi rally The London-based news website said that massive event in Ahmedabad was the platform for Trump and Modi to showcase their "enthusiastically friendly relationship". "The effusive bond between the two leaders was on full display," The Guardian said, as both leaders greatly praised each other. The Guardian also said that though the rally fell short of Trump's claim of a crowd of 7 million, it is the largest gathering that Trump has ever addressed. CNN Trump lands in India and feels the love The US-based media house said that though a trade deal looks unlikely, Trump was "more than happy to bask in the type of adulation that doesn't typically follow him when he travels abroad". "At regular intervals throughout New Delhi and Ahmedabad, larger-than-life images of the two men are plastered on signs and posts", CNN added. BBC Taj Mahal: US President Donald Trump visits India's 'monument of love' UK's BBC said that Trump "received an exuberant welcome" in the city of Agra. BBC also noted Trump struggled to pronounce Indian words that include name of Ahmedabad and Swami Vivekananda. Trump also called ancient texts Vedas as 'Vestas', BBC added.

'Trump feels love': How international media reported on US President's India visit

Standing near the Sabarmati Ashram with the national flags of India and the US in their hands, students of Sola Bhagwat school will welcome the US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/namaste-trump-india-rolls-out-red-carpet-for-trumps-maiden-visit-282245">Donald Trump</a>, the Dirst Lady <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/namaste-trump-india-rolls-out-red-carpet-for-trumps-maiden-visit-282245">Melania Trump</a> and other and other dignitaries who will be in Ahmedabad today.

The stage is set for US President's first visit to India. Trump is expected to touch down at Ahmedabad Airport in a few hours from now.&nbsp;

Also said: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/namaste-trump-india-rolls-out-red-carpet-for-trumps-maiden-visit-282245">Namaste Trump: India rolls out red carpet for Trump's maiden visit</a>

Just before his departure to India, Trump said that he was looking forward to being with 'millions and millions of Indians waiting to welcome me''.

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/namaste-trump-india-rolls-out-red-carpet-for-trumps-maiden-visit-282245">Narendra Modi</a> tweeted a welcome message for Trump ahead of his arrival. Modi will personally be present at the Sardar Vallbhai Patel International Airport to receive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rolls-out-red-carpet-for-us-president-donald-trumps-much-anticipated-maiden-visit-282241">Trump</a>.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Departing for India with Melania! <a href="https://t.co/sZhb3E1AoB">pic.twitter.com/sZhb3E1AoB</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1231598268489973761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Standing near the Sabarmati Ashram with the national flags of India and the US in their hands, students of Sola Bhagwat school will welcome the US President Donald Trump, the Dirst Lady Melania Trump and other and other dignitaries who will be in Ahmedabad today.

Standing near the Sabarmati Ashram with the national flags of India and the US in their hands, students of Sola Bhagwat school will welcome the US President Donald Trump, the Dirst Lady Melania Trump and other and other dignitaries who will be in Ahmedabad today. The stage is set for US President's first visit to India. Trump is expected to touch down at Ahmedabad Airport in a few hours from now. Also said: Namaste Trump: India rolls out red carpet for Trump's maiden visit Just before his departure to India, Trump said that he was looking forward to being with 'millions and millions of Indians waiting to welcome me''. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted a welcome message for Trump ahead of his arrival. Modi will personally be present at the Sardar Vallbhai Patel International Airport to receive Trump. Departing for India with Melania! pic.twitter.com/sZhb3E1AoB — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 23, 2020 ×

Students hold India-US flags to welcome US President Donald Trump in Ahmedabad

US President Donald Trump, who loves to tweet, has tweeted in Hindi ahead of his touchdown at Ahmedabad Airport.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"We are eager to visit India. We are on our way, will meet everyone in a few hours," said the tweet in Hindi by Trump who will arrive at Ahmedabad Airport shortly.&nbsp;

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हम भारत आने के लिए तत्पर हैं । हम रास्ते में हैँ, कुछ ही घंटों में हम सबसे मिलेंगे!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1231801865815220224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Trump is on a two-day visit to India from today.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, who loves to tweet, has tweeted in Hindi ahead of his touchdown at Ahmedabad Airport. "We are eager to visit India. We are on our way, will meet everyone in a few hours," said the tweet in Hindi by Trump who will arrive at Ahmedabad Airport shortly.

US President Donald Trump, who loves to tweet, has tweeted in Hindi ahead of his touchdown at Ahmedabad Airport. "We are eager to visit India. We are on our way, will meet everyone in a few hours," said the tweet in Hindi by Trump who will arrive at Ahmedabad Airport shortly. हम भारत आने के लिए तत्पर हैं । हम रास्ते में हैँ, कुछ ही घंटों में हम सबसे मिलेंगे! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 24, 2020 × Trump is on a two-day visit to India from today.

'Will meet everyone in a few hours', Trump tweets in Hindi ahead of Ahmedabad touch down 

The US India strategic partnership is based on shared values of democracy, common geopolitical interests, mutual respect and understanding, and marked by warmth and friendship between the political leadership and its people. &nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump have met eight times in the last 3 years, of which they met bilaterally 4 times in the last year. That, President Trump, has chosen to visit India, in a busy election year, when Presidencies are focused on their campaigns and domestic agenda, is an indicator of the level of mutual comfort and trust between the leaders. &nbsp;

This visit may have more political and optic overtones than economic, but that does nothing to take away the bilateral significance of the visit, as well as, the significant progress made in the areas of strategic importance, like defence, counter-terror, security, oil &amp; gas and trade ties.

The key takeaways from the visit would probably be in the fields of Defence, Trade and Space.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The deepening of the defence ties between the two nations has witnessed steady progression with the Defence Trade and Technology Initiative (DTTI), 2+2 dialogues, increased frequency of military exercises, moving from the annual YUDH ABHYAAS series to TIGER TRIUMPH – a tri-services joint exercise facilitated by the signing of the LEMOA and Communication, Compatibility &amp; Security Agreement. &nbsp;

It is expected, that TIGER TRIUMPH tri-service exercise with India will become an annual event and it is a vindication of the India’s emergence as the strategic partner of the US not only in the region but outside of NATO, as the only nation to have been given the status of major defence partner, to whom the US has consented to share sensitive military technologies, weapons and equipment – in no small means catalysed by the STA-1 status that India enjoys. &nbsp;

Geopolitics: China, being the elephant in the room, the renaming of the PACOM as the Indo-Pacific Command is reflective of the growing strategic stature of India in US military strategy and for the enforcement of the free and open, rules-based international order in the Pacific region.&nbsp;

There is the convergence of interest for India and US to limit the Chinese influence in the South Asian &amp; ASEAN region. India has assiduously cultivated maritime security alliances with Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore in pursuit of a free to navigate the Pacific and Indian Ocean region and limiting the Chinese influence in the South China Sea. &nbsp;

A free democratic and emergent power, India, is the ideal counterweight to an authoritative and expansionist China and this balancing of the two Asian powers is reflected in the formation of the QUAD of India, US, Japan and Australia. The recognition of India as a Strategic Partner is an outcome of the designation of China as a competitor by the present Trump administration.&nbsp;

The US pivot to Asia precedes the Trump Presidency – and the focus on India, from President Bush to Obama and Trump. It also highlights the bipartisan support that India enjoys on Capitol. &nbsp;

In the recent past though, this has been strained with incidents with some political overtones, on Article 370 and Diversity, which India clearly views as internal matters. These issues may have local domestic political overtones fueled in no small measure by the hostile press that India has attracted in the recent past especially under Modi 2.0 government.&nbsp;

India has to clearly reach out and be proactive in putting forth the facts on Article 370, CAA and Diversity, to the US people to counter the narrative that is built based on part fact and part imagination such as the linkage of CAA with NRC/NPR.&nbsp;

Defence Trade: The defence trade between India &amp; US has moved from a few hundred thousand dollars to approx. $20 billion, if the present visit results in the widely anticipated sale of 24 MH60R helicopters for the Indian Navy and the 6 Apache helicopters for the Army Aviation – both deals which have been years in the making. However, with the present administration pulling out all stops – the anticipated sale of NASAM-II system, 30 Armed Sea Guardian drones, 6 more P8I aircraft with advanced onboard communication and surveillance systems and 13 Mk45 naval guns. &nbsp;

The cherry on the cake will be if the Indian Navy opts for FA 18 Super Hornet Block III, though the multi-role aircraft for IAF, with both Lockheed Martin and Boeing throwing their hats in the ring, may take more time than anticipated riding on the back of the sluggish economic growth with more funds being allocated for infrastructure and social sector.&nbsp;

The only threat to this otherwise thriving partnership could come from the potential acquisition of the S400 missile system by India – though the US has shown flexibility in the past in accommodation of key Indian strategic interests such as the Chabahar port for the land route to Afghanistan, support during Doklam crisis and the abrogation of Article 370, besides diplomatic support to Indian counter-terror initiatives, but S400 deal with Russia could test this resolve.&nbsp;

Energy has been an area of increased cooperation between India and the US, and the energy exports to India from the US (both oil and gas) have registered an impressive growth of nearly $8 billion and may touch $10 billion, with Petronet LNG ($2.5 billion) &nbsp;and other companies, investing a total of $4 billion in US &nbsp;and have contracted 9 million metric tons per annum of LNG. This has helped bridge the trade deficit and has the potential to meet the ever-growing demands of energy in India – both in conventional and non -conventional sources including Nuclear energy as a part of the clean energy initiative of the government. &nbsp;

Space is an area which has seen slow yet steady cooperation of ISRO with NASA, with the space agencies building the strategic NISAR satellite at an estimated cost of $1.5 billion for studying the hazards, environmental change and natural processes. NISAR will be launched aboard an Indian launch vehicle in 2022. India and the US have been collaborating on space missions, and space crafts have carried their scientific instruments. The confirmed discovery of water on the south surface of the moon is credited to Chandrayaan 1 which carried a NASA probe.&nbsp;

Space Industry: There is considerable scope for the Indian and US Space industry to work together leveraging their complementary strengths – marrying Indian frugal space engineering and lower costs of material, supply chain and production which as a significant small industry content, with the cutting edge technologies of US firms. &nbsp;

India and the US could potentially collaborate on the planned Indian space station as the ISS retires by 2030 and India’s planned space station is in place by that time. There could be planned human space flights as this is an area of interest for both the nations, moving forward.&nbsp;

Challenges: With all the good tidings, there are drags and challenges, to the growing partnership. Apart from US Administration’s desire to see India &amp; Pakistan engage more bilaterally, more so in view of the Afghanistan Peace Deal to be announced on February 29 and the impending withdrawal of US troops and the recent offers of mediation, US would like to see greater involvement of India in Afghanistan even though PM Modi has ruled out boots on ground and has its reservations on the role of Taliban in the new Afghan dispensation, which could embolden terror outfits in Kashmir, but India could support the new Afghan government in terms of assistance, lines of credit and trade through the Chabahar route.&nbsp;

Trade: Trade is a major challenge in the US –India bilateral relations. The US-India trade grew at 10 per cent annually for the last two years and crossed $160 billion in last year. The trade deficit – something that the present administration has constantly focused on, has narrowed by 9 per cent. Historically, India has had a trade surplus but it is changing with the US goods trade deficit with India was at $20.8 billion in 2018, a 9 per cent decrease ($2.1 billion) over 2017.&nbsp;

Though bilateral investment has room for much improvement but Indian companies have invested almost $18 Billion and created direct employment for US citizens, so have US companies in India. Major US companies as Google, Microsoft, GE, Honeywell, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Collins Aerospace have technology centers and joint ventures in India which have contributed to both the economies&nbsp;

The list of requests from the US TR is long with respect to access to the Indian markets, to single-brand retail, medical devices (reduction of duties /higher margins), pharma, insurance, banking and financial services. Higher FDI limits in the sectors not permitting more than 49 per cent FDI, data localisation, IPR protection, and e-commerce issues, have in the recent past been a bugbear for both the ministers – Lighthiser and Goyal. While India may have its share of issues such as the H1B visas for Indian technology giants, higher tariffs on aluminium &amp; metals, and the withdrawal of the GSP privileges.&nbsp;

President Trump has often quoted Indian tariffs and barriers, as an impediment. It is true that the US may be a more open market than India, but it can be said, that Indian tariff structure is WTO compliant with Japan and South Korea levying a higher tariff on certain goods. Apart from Harley &amp; Ford, there is scope for early outcomes in food, dairy, pharma, medical devices and IPR protection in trade talks between the two democracies.&nbsp;

Way Forward: Undoubtedly, these are barriers to entry and do not make for ease of doing business, but the way forward, could be - by breaking down into individual milestones, dividing their mutual interests into smaller segments, than to attempt a large all-encompassing deal that has been long in the making. &nbsp;

There is enough scope to work on this and the trade relationship between India and US is not a 100 meters dash but more akin to a long-distance marathon, where not stamina alone but technique, even pace and focusing each mile at a time ensures success.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

&nbsp;

The US India strategic partnership is based on shared values of democracy, common geopolitical interests, mutual respect and understanding, and marked by warmth and friendship between the political leadership and its people.

The US India strategic partnership is based on shared values of democracy, common geopolitical interests, mutual respect and understanding, and marked by warmth and friendship between the political leadership and its people. PM Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump have met eight times in the last 3 years, of which they met bilaterally 4 times in the last year. That, President Trump, has chosen to visit India, in a busy election year, when Presidencies are focused on their campaigns and domestic agenda, is an indicator of the level of mutual comfort and trust between the leaders. This visit may have more political and optic overtones than economic, but that does nothing to take away the bilateral significance of the visit, as well as, the significant progress made in the areas of strategic importance, like defence, counter-terror, security, oil & gas and trade ties. The key takeaways from the visit would probably be in the fields of Defence, Trade and Space. The deepening of the defence ties between the two nations has witnessed steady progression with the Defence Trade and Technology Initiative (DTTI), 2+2 dialogues, increased frequency of military exercises, moving from the annual YUDH ABHYAAS series to TIGER TRIUMPH – a tri-services joint exercise facilitated by the signing of the LEMOA and Communication, Compatibility & Security Agreement. It is expected, that TIGER TRIUMPH tri-service exercise with India will become an annual event and it is a vindication of the India’s emergence as the strategic partner of the US not only in the region but outside of NATO, as the only nation to have been given the status of major defence partner, to whom the US has consented to share sensitive military technologies, weapons and equipment – in no small means catalysed by the STA-1 status that India enjoys. Geopolitics: China, being the elephant in the room, the renaming of the PACOM as the Indo-Pacific Command is reflective of the growing strategic stature of India in US military strategy and for the enforcement of the free and open, rules-based international order in the Pacific region. There is the convergence of interest for India and US to limit the Chinese influence in the South Asian & ASEAN region. India has assiduously cultivated maritime security alliances with Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia and Singapore in pursuit of a free to navigate the Pacific and Indian Ocean region and limiting the Chinese influence in the South China Sea. A free democratic and emergent power, India, is the ideal counterweight to an authoritative and expansionist China and this balancing of the two Asian powers is reflected in the formation of the QUAD of India, US, Japan and Australia. The recognition of India as a Strategic Partner is an outcome of the designation of China as a competitor by the present Trump administration. The US pivot to Asia precedes the Trump Presidency – and the focus on India, from President Bush to Obama and Trump. It also highlights the bipartisan support that India enjoys on Capitol. In the recent past though, this has been strained with incidents with some political overtones, on Article 370 and Diversity, which India clearly views as internal matters. These issues may have local domestic political overtones fueled in no small measure by the hostile press that India has attracted in the recent past especially under Modi 2.0 government. India has to clearly reach out and be proactive in putting forth the facts on Article 370, CAA and Diversity, to the US people to counter the narrative that is built based on part fact and part imagination such as the linkage of CAA with NRC/NPR. Defence Trade: The defence trade between India & US has moved from a few hundred thousand dollars to approx. $20 billion, if the present visit results in the widely anticipated sale of 24 MH60R helicopters for the Indian Navy and the 6 Apache helicopters for the Army Aviation – both deals which have been years in the making. However, with the present administration pulling out all stops – the anticipated sale of NASAM-II system, 30 Armed Sea Guardian drones, 6 more P8I aircraft with advanced onboard communication and surveillance systems and 13 Mk45 naval guns. The cherry on the cake will be if the Indian Navy opts for FA 18 Super Hornet Block III, though the multi-role aircraft for IAF, with both Lockheed Martin and Boeing throwing their hats in the ring, may take more time than anticipated riding on the back of the sluggish economic growth with more funds being allocated for infrastructure and social sector. The only threat to this otherwise thriving partnership could come from the potential acquisition of the S400 missile system by India – though the US has shown flexibility in the past in accommodation of key Indian strategic interests such as the Chabahar port for the land route to Afghanistan, support during Doklam crisis and the abrogation of Article 370, besides diplomatic support to Indian counter-terror initiatives, but S400 deal with Russia could test this resolve. Energy has been an area of increased cooperation between India and the US, and the energy exports to India from the US (both oil and gas) have registered an impressive growth of nearly $8 billion and may touch $10 billion, with Petronet LNG ($2.5 billion) and other companies, investing a total of $4 billion in US and have contracted 9 million metric tons per annum of LNG. This has helped bridge the trade deficit and has the potential to meet the ever-growing demands of energy in India – both in conventional and non -conventional sources including Nuclear energy as a part of the clean energy initiative of the government. Space is an area which has seen slow yet steady cooperation of ISRO with NASA, with the space agencies building the strategic NISAR satellite at an estimated cost of $1.5 billion for studying the hazards, environmental change and natural processes. NISAR will be launched aboard an Indian launch vehicle in 2022. India and the US have been collaborating on space missions, and space crafts have carried their scientific instruments. The confirmed discovery of water on the south surface of the moon is credited to Chandrayaan 1 which carried a NASA probe. Space Industry: There is considerable scope for the Indian and US Space industry to work together leveraging their complementary strengths – marrying Indian frugal space engineering and lower costs of material, supply chain and production which as a significant small industry content, with the cutting edge technologies of US firms. India and the US could potentially collaborate on the planned Indian space station as the ISS retires by 2030 and India’s planned space station is in place by that time. There could be planned human space flights as this is an area of interest for both the nations, moving forward. Challenges: With all the good tidings, there are drags and challenges, to the growing partnership. Apart from US Administration’s desire to see India & Pakistan engage more bilaterally, more so in view of the Afghanistan Peace Deal to be announced on February 29 and the impending withdrawal of US troops and the recent offers of mediation, US would like to see greater involvement of India in Afghanistan even though PM Modi has ruled out boots on ground and has its reservations on the role of Taliban in the new Afghan dispensation, which could embolden terror outfits in Kashmir, but India could support the new Afghan government in terms of assistance, lines of credit and trade through the Chabahar route. Trade: Trade is a major challenge in the US –India bilateral relations. The US-India trade grew at 10 per cent annually for the last two years and crossed $160 billion in last year. The trade deficit – something that the present administration has constantly focused on, has narrowed by 9 per cent. Historically, India has had a trade surplus but it is changing with the US goods trade deficit with India was at $20.8 billion in 2018, a 9 per cent decrease ($2.1 billion) over 2017. Though bilateral investment has room for much improvement but Indian companies have invested almost $18 Billion and created direct employment for US citizens, so have US companies in India. Major US companies as Google, Microsoft, GE, Honeywell, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Collins Aerospace have technology centers and joint ventures in India which have contributed to both the economies The list of requests from the US TR is long with respect to access to the Indian markets, to single-brand retail, medical devices (reduction of duties /higher margins), pharma, insurance, banking and financial services. Higher FDI limits in the sectors not permitting more than 49 per cent FDI, data localisation, IPR protection, and e-commerce issues, have in the recent past been a bugbear for both the ministers – Lighthiser and Goyal. While India may have its share of issues such as the H1B visas for Indian technology giants, higher tariffs on aluminium & metals, and the withdrawal of the GSP privileges. President Trump has often quoted Indian tariffs and barriers, as an impediment. It is true that the US may be a more open market than India, but it can be said, that Indian tariff structure is WTO compliant with Japan and South Korea levying a higher tariff on certain goods. Apart from Harley & Ford, there is scope for early outcomes in food, dairy, pharma, medical devices and IPR protection in trade talks between the two democracies. Way Forward: Undoubtedly, these are barriers to entry and do not make for ease of doing business, but the way forward, could be - by breaking down into individual milestones, dividing their mutual interests into smaller segments, than to attempt a large all-encompassing deal that has been long in the making. There is enough scope to work on this and the trade relationship between India and US is not a 100 meters dash but more akin to a long-distance marathon, where not stamina alone but technique, even pace and focusing each mile at a time ensures success. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Defence and trade will be the highlight of US President Donald Trump's India visit

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