Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indo-US ties during his first, historic in-person bilateral summit with US President at the White House on Friday (September 24).&nbsp;

In opening remarks at the Oval Office, PM Modi said, "In 2016 and 2014, I had the opportunity to talk to you in detail on the vision of India US partnership. Your vision was very inspiring. And today as the president, the initiative that you are taking to take it further, I welcome that."&nbsp;

"I thank you for the warm welcome accorded to me and my delegation. Earlier, we had an opportunity to hold discussions and at that time you had laid out the vision for India-US bilateral relations. Today, you are taking initiatives to implement &nbsp;your vision for India-US relations," PM Modi added.

PM Modi added, "This decade will be shaped by talent and people-to-people linkages. I am glad the Indian diaspora is making an active contribution towards USA’s progress."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-climate-change-on-agenda-as-pm-narendra-modi-prepares-to-attend-quad-415569">COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad</a>

While the two leaders have met earlier when Biden was the US vice president, this is for the first time that Biden is meeting Modi after he became the 46th president of the US.&nbsp;

Biden said that it is is a beginning of a new chapter in India-US relationship. He also pointed out that&nbsp;"four million Indian Americans every day are making America stronger".

Ahead of the meet, President Biden tweeted, "This morning I'm hosting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House for a bilateral meeting."

"I look forward to strengthening the deep ties between our two nations, working to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific, and tackling everything from COVID-19 to climate change."

Watch the video here:

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Today we begin a new chapter in Indo - US relationships. Four Million Indian Americans everyday making America stronger : US President Joe Biden 
 
Report: Souvagya Kar<a href="https://t.co/gwlAnnyXvP">pic.twitter.com/gwlAnnyXvP</a>
— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) <a href="https://twitter.com/airnewsalerts/status/1441424893245943813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier,&nbsp;Modi arrived at the White House and&nbsp;Acting Chief of Protocol greeted him at the West Wing door.&nbsp;

Watch the video here:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Washington DC: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the White House to hold a bilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden. <a href="https://t.co/f4v129fLbG">pic.twitter.com/f4v129fLbG</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1441418902605418497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Both leaders have spoken over the phone multiple times and attended a few virtual summits, including that of the Quad grouping in March, hosted by the US president.

Their&nbsp;last telephone conversation between them took place on April 26.

Previously, Modi had said his visit would be an occasion to strengthen the Indo-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest with President Biden.

After this,&nbsp;Modi will attend&nbsp;the first-ever in-person Quad summit with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indo-US ties during his first, historic in-person bilateral summit with US President at the White House on Friday (September 24).

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Indo-US ties during his first, historic in-person bilateral summit with US President at the White House on Friday (September 24). In opening remarks at the Oval Office, PM Modi said, "In 2016 and 2014, I had the opportunity to talk to you in detail on the vision of India US partnership. Your vision was very inspiring. And today as the president, the initiative that you are taking to take it further, I welcome that." "I thank you for the warm welcome accorded to me and my delegation. Earlier, we had an opportunity to hold discussions and at that time you had laid out the vision for India-US bilateral relations. Today, you are taking initiatives to implement your vision for India-US relations," PM Modi added. PM Modi added, "This decade will be shaped by talent and people-to-people linkages. I am glad the Indian diaspora is making an active contribution towards USA’s progress." ALSO READ | COVID-19, climate change on agenda as PM Narendra Modi prepares to attend Quad While the two leaders have met earlier when Biden was the US vice president, this is for the first time that Biden is meeting Modi after he became the 46th president of the US. Biden said that it is is a beginning of a new chapter in India-US relationship. He also pointed out that "four million Indian Americans every day are making America stronger". Ahead of the meet, President Biden tweeted, "This morning I'm hosting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House for a bilateral meeting." "I look forward to strengthening the deep ties between our two nations, working to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific, and tackling everything from COVID-19 to climate change." Watch the video here: Today we begin a new chapter in Indo - US relationships. Four Million Indian Americans everyday making America stronger : US President Joe Biden Report: Souvagya Karpic.twitter.com/gwlAnnyXvP — All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) September 24, 2021 × Earlier, Modi arrived at the White House and Acting Chief of Protocol greeted him at the West Wing door. Watch the video here: #WATCH | Washington DC: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at the White House to hold a bilateral meeting with US President Joe Biden. pic.twitter.com/f4v129fLbG — ANI (@ANI) September 24, 2021 × Both leaders have spoken over the phone multiple times and attended a few virtual summits, including that of the Quad grouping in March, hosted by the US president. Their last telephone conversation between them took place on April 26. Previously, Modi had said his visit would be an occasion to strengthen the Indo-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest with President Biden. After this, Modi will attend the first-ever in-person Quad summit with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison of Australia and Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan.

Indian PM Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden hold first in-person bilateral summit

Now American President and then (1992) Senator from Delaware, Joseph R Biden played a crucial role in denying India the Cryogenic engine technology that powers India's GSLV series of heavy-lift rockets. The GSLV series of rockets are meant to launch payloads between 2 and 4 tons to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit(GTO), it is the heaviest rocket of this class, which will also launch India's Human Spaceflight mission Gaganyaan. "This is no minor sale; this is dangerous" he described the then Indo-Russian deal for the Russian 'KVD-1' Cryogenic engines, which are among the best in the world. Back then, America tried every dirty trick to scuttle India's rapidly progressing space programme. It is widely regarded that the Americans did succeed in eventually delaying India’s march into Space. Joseph R Biden was among the overt contributors in this act, which India (to its own peril) refused to resist effectively or immediately overcome.&nbsp;

Barely 35 years after having established the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in a ramshackle church-turned-laboratory in Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram, on India’s Southern Coast, the country was able to launch its PSLV rocket in 1994. This was a significant feat for a country that had been launching experiments ‘sounding rockets’ akin to fireworks until the late 1960s, when America landed Man on the Moon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-referred-to-pakistans-role-in-terrorism-during-meeting-with-pm-modi-shringla-415387">VP Kamala Harris referred to Pak's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi</a>

A large part of the PSLV rocket’s success and reliability is owed to its Vikas Engine, that was co-developed by ISRO and French SEP Engineers. It was Princeton-postgraduate ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan(now regarded as the Father of Liquid Propulsion engine technology in India) who led an ISRO team in co-developing the engine (which the French call Viking-3 and India calls Vikas). Notably, this engine powers the PSLV and GSLV rockets, even today.

Buoyed by the success in co-developing the Vikas Engine, India struck a deal, in 1991, with its all-weather ally Russia to procure a handful of KVD-1 engines and the technological know-why, hands-on training for producing the engines within India. Such a deal was India’s best and fastest shot at entering the global league of heavy-lift rockets. Valued at Rs.235crore, this Russian deal was barely 1/4th the price that the American company General Dynamics had quoted for selling India inferior American Cryogenic engines. However, the American intelligence apparatus caught wind of the Russian deal and tried every trick in the bag to scuttle it and eventually delay the Indian Space programme.&nbsp;

Among the methods used by the Americans included sanctions on the Indian and Russian Space Agencies, besides invoking an irrelevant ‘Missile Technology Control Regime’(MTCR) pact, that prevented the proliferation of long-range missiles. Ironically, Americans themselves had offered India the same Cryogenic technology for a higher price(which was then not objected under the MTCR). Also, it was well known to all military-powers that Cryogenic Engines found no use in missiles(which are powered by solid and not super-cooled fuels). When the sanctions did not impact the Indian or Russian space agencies, both of which did not do business in the US, the Americans started trying even harder to trash the deal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/risk-of-another-911-style-attack-on-us-very-real-former-nsa-john-bolton-to-wion-415498">Risk of another 9/11-style attack on US very real, says ex-NSA Bolton to WION</a>

The disintegration of the erstwhile Soviet Union had made matters easy for America to arm-twist and threaten Russia, by denying financial aid to the crumbling superpower. “I am confident that the Russian leaders will recognize the wisdom of stopping this sale once they see the risk of losing their economic aid. This is no minor sale; this is dangerous.” LA Times quotes Biden from 1992. The then Senate committee(of which Senator Joseph Biden was a member) threatened to block $24billion in aid to Russia, if Russians went ahead with the rocket deal with India. Despite all these threats, Russia and India went ahead with their deal and devised workarounds to circumnavigate American dirty tricks.&nbsp;

However, all of these efforts by India and Russia came crashing when compromised personnel of the Kerala Police and senior officials the Indian Intelligence Bureau, fabricated the famed ‘ISRO Spy Case’. The main victims of the case were those linked with India’s cryogenic engine project, specifically - Nambi Narayanan, Cryogenic Project Director at ISRO, who had also played a crucial role in developing India’s Vikas Engine. While Nambi Narayanan languished in jail and was tortured brutally by the IB and Kerala Police, the political fallout of this case in Kerala helped one faction of the then Kerala Congress to topple their own incumbent Chief Minister and install a new one.

After India’s Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) took over the case, it was established that the ‘ISRO Spy Case’ was a conspiracy fabricated by officials of IB and Kerala Police. However, given India’s excruciatingly slow Judicial system and labyrinthine processes, those who conspired against the National Space Programme are still scot-free(Court proceedings and probe ongoing).&nbsp;

The involvement of criminal elements in IB and Kerala Police might give rise to the question of how Joseph Biden or America are connected to this conspiracy. The answer is simple - the Americans were successful in delaying India’s Cryogenic engine project, to the advantage of their own Space Industry and global launch market dominance.&nbsp;

If all went as planned, had India developed its Cryogenic engine and deployed it on a GSLV rocket by the end of the millennium, India would possibly have had a significant share of the pie, in the US-dominated (then $330billion) global space economy. This would have enabled India to progress throughout the decades of the 21st century and grow into a significant space player. While India eventually did develop its Cryogenic engine, it is noteworthy that - as of 2021, India’s share of the $447bn global space economy is less than 2%.&nbsp;

In the last three decades, the India-US bilateral relationship has improved so much so that, ISRO and NASA will be launching a joint mission NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) in 2022. These days, the US Government dubs India as a “strategic partner”. What remains to be seen is, if the US will mean this in earnest and compensate the Indian Space Research Organization for the precious years lost and the significant damage done. Would the US, under Biden-Harris be open to involving India in high-end projects pertaining to the International Space Station, Space Force or advanced exploration missions, technological collaborations that could enable a quantum leap for India. Or will these projects remain open only to allies?&nbsp;

Whichever way it heads, it wont be an excuse to forget the bygone chapters of American evils perpetrated on India and also India’s own pathetically lackadaisical and sluggish responses to these historical injustices.&nbsp;

Now American President and then (1992) Senator from Delaware, Joseph R Biden played a crucial role in denying India the Cryogenic engine technology that powers India's GSLV series of heavy-lift rockets.

Now American President and then (1992) Senator from Delaware, Joseph R Biden played a crucial role in denying India the Cryogenic engine technology that powers India's GSLV series of heavy-lift rockets. The GSLV series of rockets are meant to launch payloads between 2 and 4 tons to Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit(GTO), it is the heaviest rocket of this class, which will also launch India's Human Spaceflight mission Gaganyaan. "This is no minor sale; this is dangerous" he described the then Indo-Russian deal for the Russian 'KVD-1' Cryogenic engines, which are among the best in the world. Back then, America tried every dirty trick to scuttle India's rapidly progressing space programme. It is widely regarded that the Americans did succeed in eventually delaying India’s march into Space. Joseph R Biden was among the overt contributors in this act, which India (to its own peril) refused to resist effectively or immediately overcome. Barely 35 years after having established the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) in a ramshackle church-turned-laboratory in Thumba, Thiruvananthapuram, on India’s Southern Coast, the country was able to launch its PSLV rocket in 1994. This was a significant feat for a country that had been launching experiments ‘sounding rockets’ akin to fireworks until the late 1960s, when America landed Man on the Moon. ALSO READ | VP Kamala Harris referred to Pak's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi A large part of the PSLV rocket’s success and reliability is owed to its Vikas Engine, that was co-developed by ISRO and French SEP Engineers. It was Princeton-postgraduate ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan(now regarded as the Father of Liquid Propulsion engine technology in India) who led an ISRO team in co-developing the engine (which the French call Viking-3 and India calls Vikas). Notably, this engine powers the PSLV and GSLV rockets, even today. Buoyed by the success in co-developing the Vikas Engine, India struck a deal, in 1991, with its all-weather ally Russia to procure a handful of KVD-1 engines and the technological know-why, hands-on training for producing the engines within India. Such a deal was India’s best and fastest shot at entering the global league of heavy-lift rockets. Valued at Rs.235crore, this Russian deal was barely 1/4th the price that the American company General Dynamics had quoted for selling India inferior American Cryogenic engines. However, the American intelligence apparatus caught wind of the Russian deal and tried every trick in the bag to scuttle it and eventually delay the Indian Space programme. Among the methods used by the Americans included sanctions on the Indian and Russian Space Agencies, besides invoking an irrelevant ‘Missile Technology Control Regime’(MTCR) pact, that prevented the proliferation of long-range missiles. Ironically, Americans themselves had offered India the same Cryogenic technology for a higher price(which was then not objected under the MTCR). Also, it was well known to all military-powers that Cryogenic Engines found no use in missiles(which are powered by solid and not super-cooled fuels). When the sanctions did not impact the Indian or Russian space agencies, both of which did not do business in the US, the Americans started trying even harder to trash the deal. ALSO READ | Risk of another 9/11-style attack on US very real, says ex-NSA Bolton to WION The disintegration of the erstwhile Soviet Union had made matters easy for America to arm-twist and threaten Russia, by denying financial aid to the crumbling superpower. “I am confident that the Russian leaders will recognize the wisdom of stopping this sale once they see the risk of losing their economic aid. This is no minor sale; this is dangerous.” LA Times quotes Biden from 1992. The then Senate committee(of which Senator Joseph Biden was a member) threatened to block $24billion in aid to Russia, if Russians went ahead with the rocket deal with India. Despite all these threats, Russia and India went ahead with their deal and devised workarounds to circumnavigate American dirty tricks. However, all of these efforts by India and Russia came crashing when compromised personnel of the Kerala Police and senior officials the Indian Intelligence Bureau, fabricated the famed ‘ISRO Spy Case’. The main victims of the case were those linked with India’s cryogenic engine project, specifically - Nambi Narayanan, Cryogenic Project Director at ISRO, who had also played a crucial role in developing India’s Vikas Engine. While Nambi Narayanan languished in jail and was tortured brutally by the IB and Kerala Police, the political fallout of this case in Kerala helped one faction of the then Kerala Congress to topple their own incumbent Chief Minister and install a new one. After India’s Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) took over the case, it was established that the ‘ISRO Spy Case’ was a conspiracy fabricated by officials of IB and Kerala Police. However, given India’s excruciatingly slow Judicial system and labyrinthine processes, those who conspired against the National Space Programme are still scot-free(Court proceedings and probe ongoing). The involvement of criminal elements in IB and Kerala Police might give rise to the question of how Joseph Biden or America are connected to this conspiracy. The answer is simple - the Americans were successful in delaying India’s Cryogenic engine project, to the advantage of their own Space Industry and global launch market dominance. If all went as planned, had India developed its Cryogenic engine and deployed it on a GSLV rocket by the end of the millennium, India would possibly have had a significant share of the pie, in the US-dominated (then $330billion) global space economy. This would have enabled India to progress throughout the decades of the 21st century and grow into a significant space player. While India eventually did develop its Cryogenic engine, it is noteworthy that - as of 2021, India’s share of the $447bn global space economy is less than 2%. In the last three decades, the India-US bilateral relationship has improved so much so that, ISRO and NASA will be launching a joint mission NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) in 2022. These days, the US Government dubs India as a “strategic partner”. What remains to be seen is, if the US will mean this in earnest and compensate the Indian Space Research Organization for the precious years lost and the significant damage done. Would the US, under Biden-Harris be open to involving India in high-end projects pertaining to the International Space Station, Space Force or advanced exploration missions, technological collaborations that could enable a quantum leap for India. Or will these projects remain open only to allies? Whichever way it heads, it wont be an excuse to forget the bygone chapters of American evils perpetrated on India and also India’s own pathetically lackadaisical and sluggish responses to these historical injustices.

When Joe Biden denied India space tech, called it 'dangerous', US delayed India's space programme

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has urged closer ties with India as he warned of China's growing might on its doorstep, amid a flurry of diplomacy between the world's two largest democracies. Watch report.

Mike Pompeo: India needs US as its ally

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

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

Just days ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) approved a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/heres-why-no-trade-deal-should-be-expected-during-donald-trumps-india-visit-281652">deal </a>to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed martin MH-60 Romeo helicopters from the US.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-in-a-hurry-for-a-trade-deal-says-india-ahead-of-trumps-visit-281638">Also Read:&nbsp;'Not in a hurry for a trade deal,' says India ahead of Trump's visit</a>

The deal is likely to be signed during Trump's two-day visit to India next week. The choppers equipped with hellfire air-to-surface missiles is expected to boost India's naval attack capability.

The helicopter for the Indian Navy is likely to be around $2.4 billion. Ahead of President Trump's visit, India said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal even as the US president said he was "saving the big deal for later on".

Watch Video:

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We’re doing a very big trade deal with India. We’ll have it. I don’t know if it’ll be done before the election, but we’ll have a very big deal with India," Trump told reporters in Washington.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preparations-in-full-swing-ahead-of-us-president-donald-trumps-india-visit-281468">Also Read: India to spend Rs 1.5 crore a minute during Trump's Ahmedabad visit</a>

India-US trade has been growing more than ten per cent per annum over the past two years and the trade deficit has been declining and expected to reduce as New Delhi imports more US oil and gas and purchase of civilian planes.&nbsp;

The US is India's sixth-largest importer of crude oil and India is now its fourth-largest customer.

Just days ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) approved a deal to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed martin MH-60 Romeo helicopters from the US.

Just days ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) approved a deal to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed martin MH-60 Romeo helicopters from the US. Also Read: 'Not in a hurry for a trade deal,' says India ahead of Trump's visit The deal is likely to be signed during Trump's two-day visit to India next week. The choppers equipped with hellfire air-to-surface missiles is expected to boost India's naval attack capability. The helicopter for the Indian Navy is likely to be around $2.4 billion. Ahead of President Trump's visit, India said that both sides don't want to rush into a trade deal even as the US president said he was "saving the big deal for later on". Watch Video: We’re doing a very big trade deal with India. We’ll have it. I don’t know if it’ll be done before the election, but we’ll have a very big deal with India," Trump told reporters in Washington. Also Read: India to spend Rs 1.5 crore a minute during Trump's Ahmedabad visit India-US trade has been growing more than ten per cent per annum over the past two years and the trade deficit has been declining and expected to reduce as New Delhi imports more US oil and gas and purchase of civilian planes. The US is India's sixth-largest importer of crude oil and India is now its fourth-largest customer.

Ahead of Trump's visit, cabinet committee on security approves US helicopter deal

Top democratic leader and speaker of US house of representatives Nancy Pelosi has lauded India-US ties and said support for New Delhi in the US Congress "is always bipartisan." Watch this video to know more.

Support for India in US Congress bipartisan: Nancy Pelosi

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/howdy-modi-in-houston-indian-parliamentarians-get-standing-ovation-for-scrapping-article-370-251364">India</a> and the US are committed to eradicate Islamic terrorism and to protect innocent civilians.

Addressing the issue of terrorism during the gala-event of 'Howdy Modi!' that was attended by more than 50,000 people in Houston, Trump stated that India and the US stand proudly in defence of liberty and "we are committed to protect innocent civilians from the threat of radical Islamic terrorism."

"To keep our communities safe, we must protect our borders Border security vital to the USA," he added.

Trump received a standing ovation from the Indian-American community over his remark.

Watch: Committed to fight radical Islamic terror, says Donald Trump

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The US President's comment holds importance as India last month reorganised Jammu and Kashmir to safeguard the region from the Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.

Trump also exuded confidence in the Prime Minister and said that Modi is doing a great job with the people of India.

"To keep our security safe we must protect our borders. Border security is vital to the two countries," he added.

He also said that the US has also increased its defence sales to India. India and America will also increase its space cooperation, the President assured, adding that the two countries will also hold a tri-service military exercise in November.

Upon his arrival, Trump was welcomed by PM Modi who hailed the US President for his sense of leadership.

PM Modi, in his style, vouched for Trump ahead of 2020 presidential polls, saying "ab ki baar Trump sarkar" - modifying the 'Ab ki Baar Modi sarkar' slogan coined for the 2014 BJP election campaign.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that India and the US are committed to eradicate Islamic terrorism and to protect innocent civilians. Addressing the issue of terrorism during the gala-event of 'Howdy Modi!

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that India and the US are committed to eradicate Islamic terrorism and to protect innocent civilians. Addressing the issue of terrorism during the gala-event of 'Howdy Modi!' that was attended by more than 50,000 people in Houston, Trump stated that India and the US stand proudly in defence of liberty and "we are committed to protect innocent civilians from the threat of radical Islamic terrorism." "To keep our communities safe, we must protect our borders Border security vital to the USA," he added. Trump received a standing ovation from the Indian-American community over his remark. Watch: Committed to fight radical Islamic terror, says Donald Trump The US President's comment holds importance as India last month reorganised Jammu and Kashmir to safeguard the region from the Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Trump also exuded confidence in the Prime Minister and said that Modi is doing a great job with the people of India. "To keep our security safe we must protect our borders. Border security is vital to the two countries," he added. He also said that the US has also increased its defence sales to India. India and America will also increase its space cooperation, the President assured, adding that the two countries will also hold a tri-service military exercise in November. Upon his arrival, Trump was welcomed by PM Modi who hailed the US President for his sense of leadership. PM Modi, in his style, vouched for Trump ahead of 2020 presidential polls, saying "ab ki baar Trump sarkar" - modifying the 'Ab ki Baar Modi sarkar' slogan coined for the 2014 BJP election campaign.

India, US committed to protect innocents from radical Islamic terrorism, says Trump at 'Howdy Modi!'

In front of a plethora of US Leaders and President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/howdy-modi-us-president-donald-trump-hints-he-might-visit-india-for-nba-next-month-251328">Donald Trump</a> himself, Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly reiterated that his government's move to bid farewell to Article 370 was aimed at ending 2 things - discrimination and terrorism.

Addressing the “<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/border-security-vital-for-both-us-and-india-says-trump-at-howdy-modi-event-in-houston-251331">Howdy, Mody</a>” event in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/usa-loves-india-tweets-trump-after-howdy-modi-event-in-houston-251332">Houston</a>, Prime Minister Modi told the crowd to give a standing ovation to Indian parliamentarians for ensuring the nod to repeal key provisions of Article 370 that deal with Jammu and Kashmir.

The prime minister counted the move in Jammu and Kashmir as one of the major achievements of his government within its first 100 days.

He said that Article 370 had kept people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh away from the development and equal rights.

Watch: Loud cheers as PM Modi mentions Article 370

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"Separatist leaders and terrorism were taking advantage of this situation. Now, the people there are getting the same rights as enjoyed by the rest of the nation," PM Modi added.

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In pics: Sending a strong anti-terror message, <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> said, "We will jointly fight radical Islamic terrorists"<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ModiInHouston?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ModiInHouston</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HowdyModi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HowdyModi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USADirect?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USADirect</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a><a href="https://t.co/kiZEyjtLrk">https://t.co/kiZEyjtLrk</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1175903813313523712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The issue of abrogation of article 370 had also resonated in the US. With President Trump too making a mention.

New Delhi had given a firm reminder that the Kashmir issue was a bilateral one between India and Pakistan and the current changes were part of an effort to bring development to the state where terrorism had flourished.

Launching a scathing attack at the Imran Khan government which has been flagging Kashmir at various international forums - including the United Nations, PM Modi said that 'What India is doing has troubled some people who can't even manage their own country'.

This remark drew loud cheers from the audience at the event.

Without naming Pakistan again - the Prime Minister said that one country (Pakistan) has made its hatred towards India the centre of their agenda.

Ever since Modi government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status, Pakistan has left no stone unturned to internationalise the issue.&nbsp;

However, to its embarrassment, Islamabad failed to garner support from the international community. Several countries, including the USA, have dubbed abrogation of article 370 as India's internal matter.

In front of a plethora of US Leaders and President Donald Trump himself, Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly reiterated that his government's move to bid farewell to Article 370 was aimed at ending 2 things - discrimination and terrorism.

In front of a plethora of US Leaders and President Donald Trump himself, Prime Minister Narendra Modi firmly reiterated that his government's move to bid farewell to Article 370 was aimed at ending 2 things - discrimination and terrorism. Addressing the “Howdy, Mody” event in Houston, Prime Minister Modi told the crowd to give a standing ovation to Indian parliamentarians for ensuring the nod to repeal key provisions of Article 370 that deal with Jammu and Kashmir. The prime minister counted the move in Jammu and Kashmir as one of the major achievements of his government within its first 100 days. He said that Article 370 had kept people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh away from the development and equal rights. Watch: Loud cheers as PM Modi mentions Article 370 "Separatist leaders and terrorism were taking advantage of this situation. Now, the people there are getting the same rights as enjoyed by the rest of the nation," PM Modi added. In pics: Sending a strong anti-terror message, @realDonaldTrump said, "We will jointly fight radical Islamic terrorists"#ModiInHouston #HowdyModi#USADirect @narendramodihttps://t.co/kiZEyjtLrk — WION (@WIONews) September 22, 2019 × The issue of abrogation of article 370 had also resonated in the US. With President Trump too making a mention. New Delhi had given a firm reminder that the Kashmir issue was a bilateral one between India and Pakistan and the current changes were part of an effort to bring development to the state where terrorism had flourished. Launching a scathing attack at the Imran Khan government which has been flagging Kashmir at various international forums - including the United Nations, PM Modi said that 'What India is doing has troubled some people who can't even manage their own country'. This remark drew loud cheers from the audience at the event. Without naming Pakistan again - the Prime Minister said that one country (Pakistan) has made its hatred towards India the centre of their agenda. Ever since Modi government stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status, Pakistan has left no stone unturned to internationalise the issue. However, to its embarrassment, Islamabad failed to garner support from the international community. Several countries, including the USA, have dubbed abrogation of article 370 as India's internal matter.

'Howdy, Modi' in Houston: Indian Parliamentarians get standing ovation for scrapping Article 370

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (local time) hailed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/investment-border-security-pro-growth-policies-donald-trumps-speech-at-howdy-modi-251341">Indian-American communit</a>y for its contributions in providing new heights and dynamics to the warm and friendly ties shared by India and the United States.

"You all have set the stage for a glorious future as far as India-USA ties are concerned. I thank you all for your team-work," the Prime Minister told the crowd gathered at the community reception in Houston.

Earlier today, Modi inaugurated the Eternal Gandhi Museum, during an event organised by the Indian community here.

Watch: Howdy Modi Event - Trump calls Modi 'the most loyal friend'

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Citing the relevance of the Mahatma's principles in the contemporary world, the Prime Minister said, "The Eternal Gandhi museum will be a prized cultural landmark in Houston. I have been associated with this effort for a while. It will surely make Gandhi Ji's&nbsp;thoughts popular among the youth."

During the same event, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the Gujarati Samaj of Houston Event Centre and Shri Siddhi Vinayak Temple in the US city of Texas.

"Wherever we go, we should stay connected with our mother tongue, it has its own strength. You're making a centre for Gujarati community, I request you to never grow distant from your mother tongue. This effort should be continuous for the upcoming generations," Modi stressed.

In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister further urged the Indian Diaspora to send at least five non-Indian families to India as tourists.

The Prime Minister said, "People don't visit a country after looking into maps. They do after somebody tells them about a place and its attractions.

"The reception follows the 'Howdy, Modi!'&nbsp;at NRG Stadium that saw nearly 50,000 people attending gala-event. The Indian Prime Minister shared the stage with US President Donald Trump and addressed issues such as terrorism, border security and energy cooperation between the two countries.

The Prime Minister has now emplaned for New York to attend the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (local time) hailed the Indian-American community for its contributions in providing new heights and dynamics to the warm and friendly ties shared by India and the United States.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (local time) hailed the Indian-American community for its contributions in providing new heights and dynamics to the warm and friendly ties shared by India and the United States. "You all have set the stage for a glorious future as far as India-USA ties are concerned. I thank you all for your team-work," the Prime Minister told the crowd gathered at the community reception in Houston. Earlier today, Modi inaugurated the Eternal Gandhi Museum, during an event organised by the Indian community here. Watch: Howdy Modi Event - Trump calls Modi 'the most loyal friend' × Citing the relevance of the Mahatma's principles in the contemporary world, the Prime Minister said, "The Eternal Gandhi museum will be a prized cultural landmark in Houston. I have been associated with this effort for a while. It will surely make Gandhi Ji's thoughts popular among the youth." During the same event, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the Gujarati Samaj of Houston Event Centre and Shri Siddhi Vinayak Temple in the US city of Texas. "Wherever we go, we should stay connected with our mother tongue, it has its own strength. You're making a centre for Gujarati community, I request you to never grow distant from your mother tongue. This effort should be continuous for the upcoming generations," Modi stressed. In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister further urged the Indian Diaspora to send at least five non-Indian families to India as tourists. The Prime Minister said, "People don't visit a country after looking into maps. They do after somebody tells them about a place and its attractions. "The reception follows the 'Howdy, Modi!' at NRG Stadium that saw nearly 50,000 people attending gala-event. The Indian Prime Minister shared the stage with US President Donald Trump and addressed issues such as terrorism, border security and energy cooperation between the two countries. The Prime Minister has now emplaned for New York to attend the 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

PM Modi hails Indian community's contribution in strengthening India-US ties

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-visit-south-korea-as-pompeo-raises-hope-for-new-north-korea-talks-after-letter-230158">Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India.

Congressman Eliot L Engel, Chairman of House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in a letter urged Pompeo to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential.

"I am deeply concerned by the inconsistencies between the administration's rhetoric and actions toward India, which are further exacerbated by the lack of a confirmed assistant secretary more than two years into this administration's term," Engel said in his letter to Pompeo.

H said tensions have increased over each side's tariff policies, starting with the US "Section 232" tariffs on steel and aluminum.

There is a growing view that the administration is attempting to coerce India into complying with the US demands on a variety of issues, rather than negotiating with them as a strategic partner, Engel said.

Watch:&nbsp;Mike Pompeo to arrive in India on Tuesday; all eyes on strengthening defence ties

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mike-pompeo-to-arrive-in-india-on-tuesday-all-eyes-on-strengthening-defence-ties-230156/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The threats to strip India of its privileges under the Generalized System of Preferences in the middle of the country's general election has furthered the notion that the administration sees the India relationship as a transactional one. And the decision to end waivers related to the US sanctions on Iran could alienate India when we need to be working with our partners to prevent destabilising Iranian activities," he said.

According to the top head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the administration's policies have not only failed to advance the US objectives, but have also introduced significant friction in its partnership with New Delhi.&nbsp;

The trade concerns are real, and the United States must continue to work with the Indian government on market access and other important issues like international child abduction and human rights, he said.&nbsp;

"But the administration must also demonstrate a predictable, coherent, and consistent strategy that strengthens the US-India cooperation, especially in areas where our interests and values align. It's critical that American engagement support those in India who seek to further strengthen India's ties to the United States," Engel demanded.

The measure and strength of bilateral relationships, he argued, cannot be boiled down to trade deficits and tariffs.

The inconsistent US approach toward India risks setting back the strategic partnership that the two countries have worked for decades to cultivate, he added.&nbsp;

"I urge you to use your visit to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential," Engel said.&nbsp;

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India.

On the eve of his arrival in New Delhi, a top US lawmaker Tuesday told Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that there is lack of predictability and coherence in America's strategic relationship with India. Congressman Eliot L Engel, Chairman of House Committee on Foreign Affairs, in a letter urged Pompeo to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential. "I am deeply concerned by the inconsistencies between the administration's rhetoric and actions toward India, which are further exacerbated by the lack of a confirmed assistant secretary more than two years into this administration's term," Engel said in his letter to Pompeo. H said tensions have increased over each side's tariff policies, starting with the US "Section 232" tariffs on steel and aluminum. There is a growing view that the administration is attempting to coerce India into complying with the US demands on a variety of issues, rather than negotiating with them as a strategic partner, Engel said. Watch: Mike Pompeo to arrive in India on Tuesday; all eyes on strengthening defence ties "The threats to strip India of its privileges under the Generalized System of Preferences in the middle of the country's general election has furthered the notion that the administration sees the India relationship as a transactional one. And the decision to end waivers related to the US sanctions on Iran could alienate India when we need to be working with our partners to prevent destabilising Iranian activities," he said. According to the top head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the administration's policies have not only failed to advance the US objectives, but have also introduced significant friction in its partnership with New Delhi. The trade concerns are real, and the United States must continue to work with the Indian government on market access and other important issues like international child abduction and human rights, he said. "But the administration must also demonstrate a predictable, coherent, and consistent strategy that strengthens the US-India cooperation, especially in areas where our interests and values align. It's critical that American engagement support those in India who seek to further strengthen India's ties to the United States," Engel demanded. The measure and strength of bilateral relationships, he argued, cannot be boiled down to trade deficits and tariffs. The inconsistent US approach toward India risks setting back the strategic partnership that the two countries have worked for decades to cultivate, he added. "I urge you to use your visit to not only reaffirm and strengthen the US-India strategic partnership, but also convey a coherent set of objectives and predictability to the new Indian government that will help this relationship reach its full potential," Engel said.

Lack of predictability, coherence in India-US strategic ties: Congressman tells Pompeo ahead of visit

Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon has said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/industry/india-can-benefit-from-us-china-trade-war-kkr-chief-183580">India is going to be a key ally</a> of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-warns-us-china-trade-war-will-jeopardize-2019-global-growth-221117">United States in countering China's hegemony</a> as it fights a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rare-earths-the-latest-weapon-in-the-us-china-trade-war-222578"> trade war</a>.

Speaking exclusively to WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon said, "I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering the economic war with China and India is going to be a key ally of that. If there is any country in the world that's exposed to this expansionist mentality of this radical cadre of the Chinese Communist Party which controls China, is India. And I think that Modi and Trump will be two natural allies."

Bannon said that China has been running in an economic war with the United States and the US is not going to back down. "The United States is now engaged with China on this economic war that China has been running against other democracies in the West and also Japan, India and other of the western allies. The Chinese, with western capital and western technology, is trying to become a hegemonic power in the Pacific and on the landmass Eurasia. We are trying to find out depths of what is going on in this Belt and Road situation. But I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering this economic war with China," he said.

Since last year, the United States and China have been locked in a trade conflict as Washington seeks to fix the trade balance, currently tilted in favour of Beijing. The two nations have raised or threatened to raise tariffs on each other's goods, moves that could re-draw trade flows and that have threatened to derail the global economy.

An analysis by S&amp;P Global Market Intelligence's trade data firm Panjiva showed recently that American companies are shifting purchases of affected products including furniture, refrigerators and car tyres to countries such as Vietnam and South Korea.

With the latest US tariffs on Chinese goods, India fears Beijing could also re-route exports of electronic items, toys, furniture and organic chemicals to India through other Southeast Asian nations.

Negotiations between the United States and China have soured dramatically since early May when Chinese officials sought major changes to the text of a proposed deal that the Trump administration says had been largely agreed.

A subsequent round of talks ended with no movement as US President Donald Trump increased tariffs to 25 per cent from 10 per cent on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports and threatened to impose duties on all remaining Chinese goods sold in the United States.

Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon has said that India is going to be a key ally of the United States in countering China's hegemony as it fights a trade war.

Former White House chief strategist and media mogul Steve Bannon has said that India is going to be a key ally of the United States in countering China's hegemony as it fights a trade war. Speaking exclusively to WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon said, "I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering the economic war with China and India is going to be a key ally of that. If there is any country in the world that's exposed to this expansionist mentality of this radical cadre of the Chinese Communist Party which controls China, is India. And I think that Modi and Trump will be two natural allies." Bannon said that China has been running in an economic war with the United States and the US is not going to back down. "The United States is now engaged with China on this economic war that China has been running against other democracies in the West and also Japan, India and other of the western allies. The Chinese, with western capital and western technology, is trying to become a hegemonic power in the Pacific and on the landmass Eurasia. We are trying to find out depths of what is going on in this Belt and Road situation. But I can tell you the United States is engaged now, countering this economic war with China," he said. Since last year, the United States and China have been locked in a trade conflict as Washington seeks to fix the trade balance, currently tilted in favour of Beijing. The two nations have raised or threatened to raise tariffs on each other's goods, moves that could re-draw trade flows and that have threatened to derail the global economy. An analysis by S&P Global Market Intelligence's trade data firm Panjiva showed recently that American companies are shifting purchases of affected products including furniture, refrigerators and car tyres to countries such as Vietnam and South Korea. With the latest US tariffs on Chinese goods, India fears Beijing could also re-route exports of electronic items, toys, furniture and organic chemicals to India through other Southeast Asian nations. Negotiations between the United States and China have soured dramatically since early May when Chinese officials sought major changes to the text of a proposed deal that the Trump administration says had been largely agreed. A subsequent round of talks ended with no movement as US President Donald Trump increased tariffs to 25 per cent from 10 per cent on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports and threatened to impose duties on all remaining Chinese goods sold in the United States.

US-China trade war: India a key US ally to counter China's hegemony, Steve Bannon tells WION

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/after-nehru-and-indira-modi-becomes-third-prime-minister-to-return-to-power-with-huge-mandate-221300"> electoral victory this year</a> which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections.

Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist and media mogul, has said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lok-sabha-polls-2019-pm-modi-made-the-election-a-referendum-on-his-leadership-says-foreign-media-221210">western media is absolutely stunned by PM Modi's victory</a>. In an exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon, the former executive chairman of Breitbart News, said he has been incredibly impressed with Modi.

"When Modi first won five years ago, I was very proud of the fact that Breitbart, which is conservating and right-wing website in the United States, covered that election very closely. The day he won we put a headline that he was 'India's Reagan'. And I have been incredibly impressed with Modi since the first day I heard him and started following him in Indian politics. I would tell the people in India what I believe just happened is exactly like Ronald Reagan's second win in 1984 - his major landslide which is about him and personally the job he had done," Bannon said.

I think the western media is absolutely stunned by the scale of the Modi victory, he added.

Bannon said Modi's victory is good news for US-India relationship.

"It only bodes well for the future relationship between India and the United States. But the people of India should understand - you come with a lot of power, you have empowered Modi. Right now, on the world stage, I think he is one of the most powerful politicians, simply for the fact - not just how powerful India is but the mandate that Indian people gave him for the second term," he said.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Modi, won 303 of the 542 Lok Sabha (lower house of Indian Parliament) seats in the April-May election. Together with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies, the number of seats rose to a staggering 354. The win gave his party the first back-to-back majority for a single party since 1984.

His re-election reinforces a global trend of right-wing populists sweeping to victory, from the United States to Brazil and Italy.

Modi was showered with rose petals by some of the thousands of cheering supporters who waited for hours in a thunderstorm for his arrival at party headquarters after the results were announced on May 23.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an electoral victory this year which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pulled off an electoral victory this year which resonated across the world. Many global leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, congratulated him for the massive mandate in India's general elections. Steve Bannon, former White House chief strategist and media mogul, has said that the western media is absolutely stunned by PM Modi's victory. In an exclusive interview with WION's Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary, Bannon, the former executive chairman of Breitbart News, said he has been incredibly impressed with Modi. "When Modi first won five years ago, I was very proud of the fact that Breitbart, which is conservating and right-wing website in the United States, covered that election very closely. The day he won we put a headline that he was 'India's Reagan'. And I have been incredibly impressed with Modi since the first day I heard him and started following him in Indian politics. I would tell the people in India what I believe just happened is exactly like Ronald Reagan's second win in 1984 - his major landslide which is about him and personally the job he had done," Bannon said. I think the western media is absolutely stunned by the scale of the Modi victory, he added. Bannon said Modi's victory is good news for US-India relationship. "It only bodes well for the future relationship between India and the United States. But the people of India should understand - you come with a lot of power, you have empowered Modi. Right now, on the world stage, I think he is one of the most powerful politicians, simply for the fact - not just how powerful India is but the mandate that Indian people gave him for the second term," he said. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Modi, won 303 of the 542 Lok Sabha (lower house of Indian Parliament) seats in the April-May election. Together with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) allies, the number of seats rose to a staggering 354. The win gave his party the first back-to-back majority for a single party since 1984. His re-election reinforces a global trend of right-wing populists sweeping to victory, from the United States to Brazil and Italy. Modi was showered with rose petals by some of the thousands of cheering supporters who waited for hours in a thunderstorm for his arrival at party headquarters after the results were announced on May 23.

Impressed with Modi, his victory bodes well for India-US ties: Steve Bannon to WION

The new Indian ambassador to United States Harsh V. Shringla has lauded the role of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/relationship-between-india-us-is-on-a-very-positive-track-former-us-defence-secretary-william-cohen-195876">India caucus in strengthening India-US ties</a>. He was speaking at a Congressional Reception at Capitol Hill hosted by the co-chairs of the Senate India caucus and Congressional caucus on India and Indian-Americans Senator John Cornyn, Senator Mark Warner, Congressman Brad Sherman and Congressman George Holding.

The event was attended by an unprecedented 67 members of Congress, including Senators.

Recalling the "sterling role" played by the India caucus in "getting us past the finish line" on the civil nuclear agreement, the ambassador Shringla said,"the designation of India as a major defence partner was also codified into law by the US Congress in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2017, thanks to the unstinting support of the members of the India caucus."

In the US House of Representatives, the India caucus was founded in 1993 by Congressman Frank Pallone of New Jersey and Congressman Bill McCollum of Florida.

In the Senate, the caucus was founded by Senator Cornyn and Senator Hillary Clinton in 2004. The bi-partisan India caucus is the largest country-specific caucus at the Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

Talking about India-US ties, Shringla said, since 2008, the US has "bagged more than $18 billion in arms contracts with India including the C-17 Globemaster and C-130J transport planes, P-8 (I) maritime reconnaissance aircraft, M777 light-weight howitzer, Harpoon missiles and Apache and Chinook helicopters."

Private airlines in India has placed orders for 300 Boeing aircraft to be delivered over next 5 to 7 years whose total cost will be $39 billion and create 130,000 American Jobs. India has already started the import of US crude and natural gas worth $ 4.5 billion every year.

On geopolitics, ambassador Shringla said, India and US are "working closely in the Indo-Pacific including with our partners Japan and Australia" and in "Afghanistan, we have invested $3 billion for economic development and reconstruction efforts that are essential to bringing lasting peace and stability to the country."

The bilateral trade between India and the US currently stand at $140 billion with US exports to India growing around two-and-a-half times faster than Indian exports to the US.

The new Indian ambassador to United States Harsh V. Shringla has lauded the role of India caucus in strengthening India-US ties. He was speaking at a Congressional Reception at Capitol Hill hosted by the co-chairs of the Senate India caucus and Congressional caucus on India and Indian-Americans Senator John Cornyn, Senator Mark Warner, Congressman Brad Sherman and Congressman George Holding.

The new Indian ambassador to United States Harsh V. Shringla has lauded the role of India caucus in strengthening India-US ties. He was speaking at a Congressional Reception at Capitol Hill hosted by the co-chairs of the Senate India caucus and Congressional caucus on India and Indian-Americans Senator John Cornyn, Senator Mark Warner, Congressman Brad Sherman and Congressman George Holding. The event was attended by an unprecedented 67 members of Congress, including Senators. Recalling the "sterling role" played by the India caucus in "getting us past the finish line" on the civil nuclear agreement, the ambassador Shringla said,"the designation of India as a major defence partner was also codified into law by the US Congress in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2017, thanks to the unstinting support of the members of the India caucus." In the US House of Representatives, the India caucus was founded in 1993 by Congressman Frank Pallone of New Jersey and Congressman Bill McCollum of Florida. In the Senate, the caucus was founded by Senator Cornyn and Senator Hillary Clinton in 2004. The bi-partisan India caucus is the largest country-specific caucus at the Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Talking about India-US ties, Shringla said, since 2008, the US has "bagged more than $18 billion in arms contracts with India including the C-17 Globemaster and C-130J transport planes, P-8 (I) maritime reconnaissance aircraft, M777 light-weight howitzer, Harpoon missiles and Apache and Chinook helicopters." Private airlines in India has placed orders for 300 Boeing aircraft to be delivered over next 5 to 7 years whose total cost will be $39 billion and create 130,000 American Jobs. India has already started the import of US crude and natural gas worth $ 4.5 billion every year. On geopolitics, ambassador Shringla said, India and US are "working closely in the Indo-Pacific including with our partners Japan and Australia" and in "Afghanistan, we have invested $3 billion for economic development and reconstruction efforts that are essential to bringing lasting peace and stability to the country." The bilateral trade between India and the US currently stand at $140 billion with US exports to India growing around two-and-a-half times faster than Indian exports to the US.

New India ambassador to US Harsh Shringla lauds role of India caucus 'to get past finish line'

Indian media has substantial coverage of Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39;s trip to Washington. In contrast, US media has barely a mention of the trip. This reflects the difference in expectations: India hopes this trip will impact the country&#39;s destiny, whereas America, outside the Indian diaspora, doesn&#39;t really know who Modi is. The fate of America&nbsp;does not depend on&nbsp;its links to India.

In the lead up to their meeting, the Washington Post didn&#39;t carry any articles about Modi, but did have one about the <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/worldviews/wp/2017/06/24/how-can-they-hate-us-so-much-asks-father-of-muslim-teen-brutally-killed-in-attack-on-train-in-india/?utm_term=.31682ec6312f" target="_blank">Muslim </a>16-year-old thrashed to death on a train by a Hindu mob who were under the impression the kid was a &quot;beef-eater, an anti-national, a Pakistani&quot;.&nbsp;Indians here may feel this coverage is typical of the West, which instinctively&nbsp;and eagerly portrays the country in an&nbsp;unmodern&nbsp;light, rather than take up the narrative it is the world&#39;s new up and coming economy in the region.

Except the West is not uniformly under the impression that India is the new place to do business, despite savvy middle class&nbsp;India&#39;s opinion&nbsp;of itself. In the lead up to the meeting, a&nbsp;widely-shared <a href="http://www.economist.com/news/leaders/21723830-he-more-nationalist-firebrand-indias-prime-minister-not-much-reformer" target="_blank">Economist </a>article called Modi &quot;not much of a reformer&quot; in the headline, and the<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/reuters/2017/06/24/technology/24reuters-usa-india-trade.html" target="_blank"> New York Times</a> carried an article saying US congressman are calling on Trump to urge Modi&nbsp;to &quot;remove barriers to US trade and investment&quot;, something which Modi supporters feel has already happened. Indians&nbsp;who have endured&nbsp;the shock of demonetisation, and who have heard about India&#39;s new cashless economy and all the BJP&#39;s economic reforms,&nbsp;may be surprised to learn that&nbsp;the World Bank ranked&nbsp;India 130th out of 190 countries for ease of doing business.

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<h5>Trump&#39;s&nbsp;mob links are real and numerous and go back for decades. He&nbsp;has structured his White House administration on the mafia pattern, literally surrounding himself with&nbsp;family members&nbsp;whose only qualification for office&nbsp;is family loyalty.</h5>
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That NYT article was published June 24th, and&nbsp;the website had no mention of the Indian Prime Minister when he landed in Washington.

It&#39;s true that before the&nbsp;meeting the US pledged to supply&nbsp;22 armed predator Guardian drones to the Indian Navy. This is said to boost the Navy&#39;s intelligence gathering, and is a deal worth $2-3 billion. Perhaps this was an offering to India, to help open things up along the terms Big Business wants, or perhaps it&#39;s a run of the mill military exchange between countries. Coherence from this&nbsp;US administration is non-existent;&nbsp;Trump called Qatar a state sponsor of terrorism, then days later the US agreed to supply&nbsp;them with $12 billion worth in jets.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Modi met the head&nbsp;of&nbsp;Wal Mart, who&nbsp;called their meeting &quot;fruitful&quot;. Who knows what this means for relations between the two countries?&nbsp;In the days to come&nbsp;there will be more symbolic statements and photo ops, but&nbsp;what they symbolize is anybody&#39;s guess.&nbsp;

It&#39;s hard to read because President&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;is a&nbsp;sociopathic kleptocrat. He is fundamentally untrustworthy,&nbsp;guided solely by what benefits his private wealth and hold on power. Trump&#39;s&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salon.com/2017/05/16/watch-dutch-documentary-investigates-trumps-links-to-russian-mob/" target="_blank">mob </a>links are real and numerous and go back for decades. He&nbsp;has structured his White House administration on the mafia pattern, literally surrounding himself with&nbsp;family members&nbsp;whose only qualification for office&nbsp;is family loyalty.&nbsp;

Boding well for India is the fact that he has Trump Hotels&nbsp;in Mumbai and&nbsp;Pune. This probably means more than his vocal criticism of India for only participating in the Paris climate accord, where he&nbsp;<a href="http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/dismissing-donald-trumps-snarl-india-vows-to-stay-on-the-green-path/articleshow/58969162.cms" target="_blank">said</a>, &quot;India makes its participation contingent on receiving billions and billions and billions of dollars in foreign aid from developed countries.&quot;&nbsp;

Before taking any statement from Trump&#39;s mouth seriously, recall the &quot;bizarre and reckless&quot; phone call he had, just after being&nbsp;named the winner of the US election,&nbsp;with&nbsp;Pakistan Prime Minister&nbsp;Nawaz Sharif: &quot;You are a terrific guy. You are doing amazing work which is visible in every&nbsp;way.&quot;&nbsp;Yet Indian media is convinced that Trump is a partner in the fight against Pakistan terror. Maybe he will be. It&#39;s impossible to know. Trump&nbsp;speaks from three sides of his mouth.

Indians who are under the mistaken belief&nbsp;that the US President is a stable&nbsp;adult who operates within democratic or even economic norms&nbsp;may try to read for clues to speculate about India&#39;s&nbsp;future with Washington. Trump is&nbsp;only loyal to his ego, money and power. Everything else will be determined in time.

(WION)

Trump cares about Trump, not India, or for that matter even America. Predicting the future of India-US ties without understanding this is hopeless

Indian media has substantial coverage of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's trip to Washington. In contrast, US media has barely a mention of the trip. This reflects the difference in expectations: India hopes this trip will impact the country's destiny, whereas America, outside the Indian diaspora, doesn't really know who Modi is. The fate of America does not depend on its links to India. In the lead up to their meeting, the Washington Post didn't carry any articles about Modi, but did have one about the Muslim 16-year-old thrashed to death on a train by a Hindu mob who were under the impression the kid was a "beef-eater, an anti-national, a Pakistani". Indians here may feel this coverage is typical of the West, which instinctively and eagerly portrays the country in an unmodern light, rather than take up the narrative it is the world's new up and coming economy in the region. Except the West is not uniformly under the impression that India is the new place to do business, despite savvy middle class India's opinion of itself. In the lead up to the meeting, a widely-shared Economist article called Modi "not much of a reformer" in the headline, and the New York Times carried an article saying US congressman are calling on Trump to urge Modi to "remove barriers to US trade and investment", something which Modi supporters feel has already happened. Indians who have endured the shock of demonetisation, and who have heard about India's new cashless economy and all the BJP's economic reforms, may be surprised to learn that the World Bank ranked India 130th out of 190 countries for ease of doing business. Trump's mob links are real and numerous and go back for decades. He has structured his White House administration on the mafia pattern, literally surrounding himself with family members whose only qualification for office is family loyalty. × That NYT article was published June 24th, and the website had no mention of the Indian Prime Minister when he landed in Washington. It's true that before the meeting the US pledged to supply 22 armed predator Guardian drones to the Indian Navy. This is said to boost the Navy's intelligence gathering, and is a deal worth $2-3 billion. Perhaps this was an offering to India, to help open things up along the terms Big Business wants, or perhaps it's a run of the mill military exchange between countries. Coherence from this US administration is non-existent; Trump called Qatar a state sponsor of terrorism, then days later the US agreed to supply them with $12 billion worth in jets. Modi met the head of Wal Mart, who called their meeting "fruitful". Who knows what this means for relations between the two countries? In the days to come there will be more symbolic statements and photo ops, but what they symbolize is anybody's guess. It's hard to read because President Trump is a sociopathic kleptocrat. He is fundamentally untrustworthy, guided solely by what benefits his private wealth and hold on power. Trump's mob links are real and numerous and go back for decades. He has structured his White House administration on the mafia pattern, literally surrounding himself with family members whose only qualification for office is family loyalty. Boding well for India is the fact that he has Trump Hotels in Mumbai and Pune. This probably means more than his vocal criticism of India for only participating in the Paris climate accord, where he said, "India makes its participation contingent on receiving billions and billions and billions of dollars in foreign aid from developed countries." Before taking any statement from Trump's mouth seriously, recall the "bizarre and reckless" phone call he had, just after being named the winner of the US election, with Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif: "You are a terrific guy. You are doing amazing work which is visible in every way." Yet Indian media is convinced that Trump is a partner in the fight against Pakistan terror. Maybe he will be. It's impossible to know. Trump speaks from three sides of his mouth. Indians who are under the mistaken belief that the US President is a stable adult who operates within democratic or even economic norms may try to read for clues to speculate about India's future with Washington. Trump is only loyal to his ego, money and power. Everything else will be determined in time. (WION)

Opinion: Indian PM Modi meets mob-linked president on his home turf

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Portugal on Saturday morning and will reach the United States the next day (June25).

He will meet US President Donald Trump on June 26.&nbsp;

The two leaders will meet on Monday at around 3:30 pm EST (1 am IST) for the first time. The meeting will last for about 5 hours. The two leaders will end their meeting with a White House dinner, the first by the Trump administration for a visiting foreign leader.

Modi will then visit the Netherlands on June 27.

Speaking before his departure, Modi said that the aim of the US visit is to &quot;build a forward looking vision&quot; for the Indo-US bilateral partnership and consolidate the strong relationship between the two countries.

&quot;My USA visit is aimed at deepening ties between our nations. Strong India-USA ties benefit our nations &amp; the world,&quot; he tweeted.

India and the United States came closer during the regime of President Barack Obama owing to a warm relationship shared between the two leaders.

The visit will aim to capitalise on that relationship to further strengthen the ties.

Already on the agenda is the big-ticket defence deal which will see US supplying 22 Predator drones to India. Sources close to the deal have signalled that the entire US administration is positive about the deal.

India is one of United States&#39; biggest defence markets.

On the issue of H-1B visas, the White House said there were no specific plans to raise the issue during Modi&rsquo;s visit as it was under review. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;On the (H-1B) visas issue, there&#39;s no plans for that to come up specifically,&quot; a senior administration official told reporters ahead of Modi-Trump meeting at the White House on Monday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&quot;But if it&#39;s raised, I would just note that the administration has signed some executive orders related to work and immigration, and President Trump&#39;s executive order on H1-B visas, of course, directs the Secretary of State, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Homeland Security to propose potential reforms to the H1B visa program,&quot; the official said. 
&nbsp; 
The official added that there have been no immediate changes in the existing visa policy. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;However there have been no immediate changes to visa application or issuance procedures, so we&#39;re not in a position to kind of prejudge what the outcome of the review might be. 
So there&#39;s really been no changes as such at this point, and no specific changes that target any specific country or sector as of yet.&rdquo;

Trump and Modi have spoken twice over the phone after the former assumed office in January 2017. This will be their first personal meeting.

The Indian Prime Minister will also meet prominent American CEOs and interact with the Indian diaspora in US.

White House dinner

US President Donald Trump would host him for a dinner at the White House on Monday.

&quot;The White House is very interested in making this a special visit. We&#39;re really seeking to roll out the red carpet. In fact, the two (leaders) will have dinner, a working dinner at the White House. This will be the first dinner for a foreign dignitary at the White House under this administration. So, we think that&#39;s very significant,&quot; a senior administration official told reporters.

Modi will travel to Portugal on Saturday where he will meet the Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa.

&quot;Building on our recent discussions, we will review the progress of various joint initiatives and decisions,&quot; Prime Minister Modi said about his upcoming meeting with Costa.

&quot;We will also discuss ways to further enhance the bilateral engagement, especially in the areas of economic cooperation, science &amp; technology, space collaboration and people to people ties,&quot; the Prime Minister added.

In the last leg of his visit, Modi will visit the Netherlands on June 27 where he will meet the Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and call on King Willem- Alexander and meet Queen Maxima.

India and the Netherlands share a strong economic partnership. The Netherlands is India&#39;s 6th largest trading partner in the EU and 5th largest investment partner globally

&quot;The Dutch expertise in areas such as water and waste management, agriculture and food processing, renewable energy and ports and shipping, matches with our development needs,&quot; the prime minister said.

&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will reach the US on June 25 and will meet President Donald Trump the next day for five hours

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi left for Portugal on Saturday morning and will reach the United States the next day (June25). He will meet US President Donald Trump on June 26. The two leaders will meet on Monday at around 3:30 pm EST (1 am IST) for the first time. The meeting will last for about 5 hours. The two leaders will end their meeting with a White House dinner, the first by the Trump administration for a visiting foreign leader. Modi will then visit the Netherlands on June 27. Speaking before his departure, Modi said that the aim of the US visit is to "build a forward looking vision" for the Indo-US bilateral partnership and consolidate the strong relationship between the two countries. "My USA visit is aimed at deepening ties between our nations. Strong India-USA ties benefit our nations & the world," he tweeted. India and the United States came closer during the regime of President Barack Obama owing to a warm relationship shared between the two leaders. The visit will aim to capitalise on that relationship to further strengthen the ties. Already on the agenda is the big-ticket defence deal which will see US supplying 22 Predator drones to India. Sources close to the deal have signalled that the entire US administration is positive about the deal. India is one of United States' biggest defence markets. On the issue of H-1B visas, the White House said there were no specific plans to raise the issue during Modi’s visit as it was under review. "On the (H-1B) visas issue, there's no plans for that to come up specifically," a senior administration official told reporters ahead of Modi-Trump meeting at the White House on Monday. "But if it's raised, I would just note that the administration has signed some executive orders related to work and immigration, and President Trump's executive order on H1-B visas, of course, directs the Secretary of State, the Attorney General, the Secretary of Labor and the Secretary of Homeland Security to propose potential reforms to the H1B visa program," the official said. The official added that there have been no immediate changes in the existing visa policy. "However there have been no immediate changes to visa application or issuance procedures, so we're not in a position to kind of prejudge what the outcome of the review might be. So there's really been no changes as such at this point, and no specific changes that target any specific country or sector as of yet.” Trump and Modi have spoken twice over the phone after the former assumed office in January 2017. This will be their first personal meeting. The Indian Prime Minister will also meet prominent American CEOs and interact with the Indian diaspora in US. White House dinner US President Donald Trump would host him for a dinner at the White House on Monday. "The White House is very interested in making this a special visit. We're really seeking to roll out the red carpet. In fact, the two (leaders) will have dinner, a working dinner at the White House. This will be the first dinner for a foreign dignitary at the White House under this administration. So, we think that's very significant," a senior administration official told reporters. Modi will travel to Portugal on Saturday where he will meet the Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa. "Building on our recent discussions, we will review the progress of various joint initiatives and decisions," Prime Minister Modi said about his upcoming meeting with Costa. "We will also discuss ways to further enhance the bilateral engagement, especially in the areas of economic cooperation, science & technology, space collaboration and people to people ties," the Prime Minister added. In the last leg of his visit, Modi will visit the Netherlands on June 27 where he will meet the Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and call on King Willem- Alexander and meet Queen Maxima. India and the Netherlands share a strong economic partnership. The Netherlands is India's 6th largest trading partner in the EU and 5th largest investment partner globally "The Dutch expertise in areas such as water and waste management, agriculture and food processing, renewable energy and ports and shipping, matches with our development needs," the prime minister said.

Indian PM Modi leaves for three-nation tour to 'deepen bilateral ties'

The United States (US) has asked India and Pakistan to sign and ratify Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) in a bid to encourage the two countries to exercise restraint for improving strategic stability.
&quot;We welcome this high-level dialogue between India and Pakistan, encourage both countries to engage in the dialogue and exercise restraint aimed at improving strategic stability,&quot; &nbsp;State Department deputy spokesman Mark Toner said.&nbsp; 
 
Pakistan&#39;s recent proposal to India for a bilateral agreement for not conducting a nuclear testing of atomic weapons has been welcomed by Toner.&nbsp; 
 
&quot;I think this proposal is something we would leave to India&#39;s consideration,&quot; he said at his daily news conference yesterday. 
 
&quot;It remains in our view that the most practical way to achieve a legally binding commitment on nuclear explosive testing would be for both states to sign and ratify the CTBT,&quot; Toner said. 
 
Pakistan on August 12 had said that it was ready for an agreement with India on a bilateral moratorium on nuclear non-testing. 
 
The multilateral treaty, CTBT, bans all nuclear explosions, including underground testing, for both military and civilian purposes.&nbsp;
This is not the first time the United States has asked non-NPT (Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty)&nbsp;signatories such as&nbsp;India and Pakistan to sign and ratify&nbsp;the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). 
 
The US (United States) has been saying this for long. That said, the US&#39;s&nbsp;appeal rings hollow given its own track record: The US itself is still to ratify the CTBT. 
 
India has consistently maintained that it is not in a hurry to sign up to the CTBT. Instead,&nbsp;it adheres to&nbsp;a unilateral, voluntary moratorium. Also, India&#39;s nuclear doctrine is based on a no-first-use policy, credible minimum deterrent&nbsp;and a second strike&nbsp;capability, including a nuclear triad, whereby India can inflict unacceptable damage on the enemy from land, air and sea. 
 
(WION with inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) bans all nuclear explosions for both military and civilian purposes

The United States (US) has asked India and Pakistan to sign and ratify Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) in a bid to encourage the two countries to exercise restraint for improving strategic stability. "We welcome this high-level dialogue between India and Pakistan, encourage both countries to engage in the dialogue and exercise restraint aimed at improving strategic stability," State Department deputy spokesman Mark Toner said. Pakistan's recent proposal to India for a bilateral agreement for not conducting a nuclear testing of atomic weapons has been welcomed by Toner. "I think this proposal is something we would leave to India's consideration," he said at his daily news conference yesterday. "It remains in our view that the most practical way to achieve a legally binding commitment on nuclear explosive testing would be for both states to sign and ratify the CTBT," Toner said. Pakistan on August 12 had said that it was ready for an agreement with India on a bilateral moratorium on nuclear non-testing. The multilateral treaty, CTBT, bans all nuclear explosions, including underground testing, for both military and civilian purposes. This is not the first time the United States has asked non-NPT (Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty) signatories such as India and Pakistan to sign and ratify the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). The US (United States) has been saying this for long. That said, the US's appeal rings hollow given its own track record: The US itself is still to ratify the CTBT. India has consistently maintained that it is not in a hurry to sign up to the CTBT. Instead, it adheres to a unilateral, voluntary moratorium. Also, India's nuclear doctrine is based on a no-first-use policy, credible minimum deterrent and a second strike capability, including a nuclear triad, whereby India can inflict unacceptable damage on the enemy from land, air and sea. (WION with inputs from agencies)

US doesn't subscribe to CTBT, but asks India, Pakistan to sign it

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