Preparations are underway in full swing for the 'Namaste Trump' event in Ahmedabad. Delhi, Agra and Ahmedabad are getting a complete makeover, workers are scrubbing the walls, fountains, pathways and renovating the gardens at the Taj Mahal. Multi-tier security arrangements have been made for the visit with more than 4000 security personnel deployed along with 10 companies of paramilitary forces.

Preparations for 'Namaste Trump' in the final stage

Preparations are underway in full swing for the 'Namaste Trump' event in Ahmedabad. Multi-tier security arrangements have been made for the visit with more than 4000 security personnel deployed along with 10 companies of paramilitary forces. In this segment of WION, we bring to you ground zero report from Ahmedabad, where preparations are underway for Trump's visit.

Trump India visit: WION reports from Motera Stadium

Preparations are underway in full swing for the 'Namaste Trump' event in Ahmedabad. Multi-tier security arrangements have been made for the visit with more than 4000 security personnel deployed along with 10 companies of paramilitary forces. In the visit, the US President will raise the issue related to the new Citizenship Act and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) law.

Trump India visit: CAA, NRC to feature in Trump-Modi talks

In this segment of WION, know what exactly India would gain from the US President Donald Trump's visit to India.

Trump India visit: What does India stand to gain?

As the coronavirus continues to spread there is a lot of misinformation that is doing rounds with it. The United States has blamed Russia for leading the disinformation campaign.

Coronavirus Outbreak: US blames Russia for fueling disinformation

Over the past 4 days, three globe master cargo plains of the US Air Force arrived in India. Marine One is a part of cargo plains. Trump will use Marine One to fly from the stadium to the airport.

Trump's security equipment arrives in India

Washington is looking for Indian support as it sets to sign the peace accord with the Taliban on February 29.&nbsp;

A senior US administration official said, "But we certainly would look to India to support this peace process - an important country in the region, important to the overall stability of the region."

The official explained, "we would just encourage India, as we are all regional countries, to do whatever it can to support this peace process so that it can be successful and we can potentially end 19 years of military, diplomatic, economic engagement."

Adding, "You know, that we can end the military engagement. We will be continuing our diplomatic and economic engagement, which has been there over the last 19 years."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-expected-to-sign-peace-deal-on-february-29-mike-pompeo-282024">US, Taliban expected to sign peace deal on February 29 - Mike Pompeo</a>

As part of the agreement, a reduction of violence plan kicked off on Friday midnight Kabul time and will last for seven days.

When asked if Afghanistan will come up during US President's, especially on Indian troops, the official said, "I think if the issue comes up, that is what would be the request from the President."

India has made it clear that it will never send troops to the landlocked South Asian country.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-deputy-leader-says-committed-to-peace-in-op-ed-281883">Taliban deputy leader says 'committed' to peace in op-ed</a>

Asked about the US Taliban agreement, Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan said, "India and other regional partners have an important role now in exerting themselves with all political personalities in Afghanistan to retain unity and a common sense of purpose."

He said, "Seems the agreement with the US may be signed on 29 Feb if the reduction of violence holds this week. So a week that would test Taliban intentions and ability to offer peace to its Afghan brethren."

Adding, "More problematic is the shape and composition of the intra Afghan talks since the politics in Kabul has got further complicated."

New Delhi is a major development partner of Kabul and is helping in infrastructure development in Afghanistan and has built the Parliament building in Kabul and India-Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat. &nbsp;

Washington is looking for Indian support as it sets to sign the peace accord with the Taliban on February 29. A senior US administration official said, "But we certainly would look to India to support this peace process - an important country in the region, important to the overall stability of the region.

Washington is looking for Indian support as it sets to sign the peace accord with the Taliban on February 29. A senior US administration official said, "But we certainly would look to India to support this peace process - an important country in the region, important to the overall stability of the region." The official explained, "we would just encourage India, as we are all regional countries, to do whatever it can to support this peace process so that it can be successful and we can potentially end 19 years of military, diplomatic, economic engagement." Adding, "You know, that we can end the military engagement. We will be continuing our diplomatic and economic engagement, which has been there over the last 19 years." Also read: US, Taliban expected to sign peace deal on February 29 - Mike Pompeo As part of the agreement, a reduction of violence plan kicked off on Friday midnight Kabul time and will last for seven days. When asked if Afghanistan will come up during US President's, especially on Indian troops, the official said, "I think if the issue comes up, that is what would be the request from the President." India has made it clear that it will never send troops to the landlocked South Asian country. Also read: Taliban deputy leader says 'committed' to peace in op-ed Asked about the US Taliban agreement, Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan said, "India and other regional partners have an important role now in exerting themselves with all political personalities in Afghanistan to retain unity and a common sense of purpose." He said, "Seems the agreement with the US may be signed on 29 Feb if the reduction of violence holds this week. So a week that would test Taliban intentions and ability to offer peace to its Afghan brethren." Adding, "More problematic is the shape and composition of the intra Afghan talks since the politics in Kabul has got further complicated." New Delhi is a major development partner of Kabul and is helping in infrastructure development in Afghanistan and has built the Parliament building in Kabul and India-Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat.

Washington looks for Indian support ahead of Taliban-US deal

The US President will arrive in Ahmedabad at around noon on February 24 for a less that 36-hour visit to India. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation including First Lady Melania Trump, the President's daughter Ivanka Trump, son-in-law Jared Kushner

Taj Mahal gets a makeover for Trump's visit

Announcements from Delhi about making the trade deal seems difficult during US President Donald Trump's upcoming India visit. The signing of the deal depends on what India can offer.

White House rules out trade deal with India

According to U.S officials, Russia is trying to help Sanders. Question is that is Russia meddling in US elections again. Intel says Russia trying to help Sanders.

New reports of Russian interference

Washington plans to sign a peace deal with the Taliban on Feb. 29 following the successful implementation of a countrywide reduction in violence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced on Friday.

WION Fineprint: US-Taliban to sign peace deal on Feb 29

US President Donald Trump will land in India on Monday.&nbsp; 
 
He is preparing to contest the next election in a few months and any diplomatic move, state visit or global engagement is now being closely watched at home.

Also, around the world, all eyes will be on the Modi- Trump meet. In short, this is a big event and some vested groups want to ride this event and make a nuisance.

Four American lawmakers have written to US Secretary of State - Mike Pompeo. They want Trump to take a stand against the shutdown in Kashmir, and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

The letter claims that the rights of certain religious minorities and the secular character of the Indian state are under threat. The lawmakers describe the events in Jammu and Kashmir as troubling.

They have asked Mike Pompeo for assessments on a few points:&nbsp;

The number of political detainees in Kashmir and whether they have been subjected to torture or not. Restrictions on the Internet and mobile service, access for foreign diplomats, journalists and observers.

They also want to know if the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) would render anyone stateless. And, they are demanding specific numbers. 
&nbsp; 
These are leaders from both sides of the aisle, a group of bipartisan lawmakers - Chris Van Hollen and Richard Durbin are from the democratic party; Todd Young and Lindsey Graham from the Republican Party. Graham is the same lawmaker who was recently rebuffed by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

Other lawmakers too are using the opportunity to mount pressure on Trump, Ami Bera is one of them. He is an influential lawmaker - who has expressed concern over India's new Citizenship Law and the situation in Kashmir. George Holding - a Republican lawmaker has also spoken out. They all want Trump to say something on both the issues.

So far, the United States has stood by India, at the same time, Trump has made repeated offers of mediation between India and Pakistan on Kashmir. However, it's not certain if Trump plans to bring up Kashmir or CAA while he is in India. 
 
What will most certainly figure in the talks is trade.

&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump will land in India on Monday. He is preparing to contest the next election in a few months and any diplomatic move, state visit or global engagement is now being closely watched at home.

US President Donald Trump will land in India on Monday. He is preparing to contest the next election in a few months and any diplomatic move, state visit or global engagement is now being closely watched at home. Also, around the world, all eyes will be on the Modi- Trump meet. In short, this is a big event and some vested groups want to ride this event and make a nuisance. Four American lawmakers have written to US Secretary of State - Mike Pompeo. They want Trump to take a stand against the shutdown in Kashmir, and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The letter claims that the rights of certain religious minorities and the secular character of the Indian state are under threat. The lawmakers describe the events in Jammu and Kashmir as troubling. They have asked Mike Pompeo for assessments on a few points: The number of political detainees in Kashmir and whether they have been subjected to torture or not. Restrictions on the Internet and mobile service, access for foreign diplomats, journalists and observers. They also want to know if the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) would render anyone stateless. And, they are demanding specific numbers. These are leaders from both sides of the aisle, a group of bipartisan lawmakers - Chris Van Hollen and Richard Durbin are from the democratic party; Todd Young and Lindsey Graham from the Republican Party. Graham is the same lawmaker who was recently rebuffed by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Other lawmakers too are using the opportunity to mount pressure on Trump, Ami Bera is one of them. He is an influential lawmaker - who has expressed concern over India's new Citizenship Law and the situation in Kashmir. George Holding - a Republican lawmaker has also spoken out. They all want Trump to say something on both the issues. So far, the United States has stood by India, at the same time, Trump has made repeated offers of mediation between India and Pakistan on Kashmir. However, it's not certain if Trump plans to bring up Kashmir or CAA while he is in India. What will most certainly figure in the talks is trade.

How should India approach Donald Trump's state visit?

The US and India are unlikely to reach a limited trade deal during US President Donald Trump's upcoming India visit, this came as an American business group says that India's proposed tariffs have complicated negotiations.

Trump refuses to sign trade deal with India

A US judge sentenced President Donald Trump's ally Roger Stone for 40 months on February 20. Last year, Stone was convicted in on seven charges including obstruction of justice, lying to Congress and witness tampering in a case related to allegations that Trump campaign conspired with Russia to meddle in the 2016 presidential election.

Roger Stone sentenced for lying in Russia probe

When US President Donald Trump lands in India, it's going to be like one of those great Indian weddings - probably the grandest of them all, one that will culminate in the biggest cricket stadium in the world.

But what cannot be brushed under the red carpet being rolled out to Trump is the fact that the trade deal with India is still not done.

Trump is busy bragging how many millions are going to gather when he lands - seven million. Even by Trump's standards, this is an exaggeration.

It's another matter that the total population of Ahmedabad city is about 5 and a half million, but the President is not known to be bothered with facts very much.&nbsp;

And this latest one made in India could turn out to be very expensive because Trump brings with him zero clarity on the biggest issue on the table - the trade deal - which has been stuck in limbo for a while now.

India made a valiant attempt in September last year, sending Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to the UNGA in New York at the last moment, just to see if the momentum around the 'Howdy Modi' event could lead to a deal - it didn't.

And now it's time for 'Namaste Trump' already. As he comes calling - the question is - do India and the United States have any chances of hammering out a trade deal?

The US trade representative &nbsp;- Robert Lighthizer - has already cancelled his India visit, despite some major concessions being proposed - no breakthroughs have been reported so far in the negotiations.

Trump has been complaining about Indian tariffs for the whole of last year, and that stance doesn't seem to have changed - he has effectively ruled out a bilateral trade deal.

At least until his possible re-election in November. "We can have a trade deal with India, but I’m really saving the big deal for later on, 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's comments and the lukewarm efforts at negotiation raise a bigger question.

Is this visit more about optics than actual bilateral business?

Trump seems more excited about the massive roadshow and the event at Sardar Patel Stadium than about bilateral trade, and defence cooperation.

The trade deal might not come through before the elections, but Trump certainly has a lot to gain in the meantime. Gujarati-Americans have considerable clout in the United States of America.

And they will be an important vote bank for Trump in the election in&nbsp;November - members of US delegation have already started arriving in India.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla met with the American Congressional delegation. The chairman of the sub-committee on Asia-Pacific Affairs was leading it.

Members of the India Caucus were also present at the meeting. According to the sources in the Indian government, India's counter to Trump's high tariff complaint is Korea and Japan who levy higher tariffs than India.

The sources have also said that no big-ticket announcements should be expected during Trump's visit- now that certainly sets the expectations right for Trump's trip. 
&nbsp;

When US President Donald Trump lands in India, it's going to be like one of those great Indian weddings - probably the grandest of them all, one that will culminate in the biggest cricket stadium in the world.

When US President Donald Trump lands in India, it's going to be like one of those great Indian weddings - probably the grandest of them all, one that will culminate in the biggest cricket stadium in the world. But what cannot be brushed under the red carpet being rolled out to Trump is the fact that the trade deal with India is still not done. Trump is busy bragging how many millions are going to gather when he lands - seven million. Even by Trump's standards, this is an exaggeration. It's another matter that the total population of Ahmedabad city is about 5 and a half million, but the President is not known to be bothered with facts very much. And this latest one made in India could turn out to be very expensive because Trump brings with him zero clarity on the biggest issue on the table - the trade deal - which has been stuck in limbo for a while now. India made a valiant attempt in September last year, sending Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to the UNGA in New York at the last moment, just to see if the momentum around the 'Howdy Modi' event could lead to a deal - it didn't. And now it's time for 'Namaste Trump' already. As he comes calling - the question is - do India and the United States have any chances of hammering out a trade deal? The US trade representative - Robert Lighthizer - has already cancelled his India visit, despite some major concessions being proposed - no breakthroughs have been reported so far in the negotiations. Trump has been complaining about Indian tariffs for the whole of last year, and that stance doesn't seem to have changed - he has effectively ruled out a bilateral trade deal. At least until his possible re-election in November. "We can have a trade deal with India, but I’m really saving the big deal for later on, 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's comments and the lukewarm efforts at negotiation raise a bigger question. Is this visit more about optics than actual bilateral business? Trump seems more excited about the massive roadshow and the event at Sardar Patel Stadium than about bilateral trade, and defence cooperation. The trade deal might not come through before the elections, but Trump certainly has a lot to gain in the meantime. Gujarati-Americans have considerable clout in the United States of America. And they will be an important vote bank for Trump in the election in November - members of US delegation have already started arriving in India. India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla met with the American Congressional delegation. The chairman of the sub-committee on Asia-Pacific Affairs was leading it. Members of the India Caucus were also present at the meeting. According to the sources in the Indian government, India's counter to Trump's high tariff complaint is Korea and Japan who levy higher tariffs than India. The sources have also said that no big-ticket announcements should be expected during Trump's visit- now that certainly sets the expectations right for Trump's trip.

Here's why no trade deal should be expected during Donald Trump's India visit

Several high profile Indians will be accompanying US President Donald Trump during his visit to India.

Also read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/preparations-in-ahemdabad-in-full-swing-ahead-of-trumps-maiden-visit-to-india-280972">Ahmedabad: Preparations in full swing ahead of Trump's maiden visit to India</a>

Indian-Americans in top government positions view Trump’s India visit as an opportunity to send a message to the immigrant community in the US.

Indian Americans that are most likely to accompany the US president are Rita Baranwal, Prem Parameswaran, Bimal Patel, Manisha Singh, Ajit Pai, Seema Verma, Kash Patel and Sampat Shivangi.

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This is an election year for Trump and he is likely to use the optics around his Delhi and Ahmedabad visits to reach out to the Indian-American electorate back home.

The members who are set to be in Trump's visit include:&nbsp;Rita Baranwal&nbsp;Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy,&nbsp;Prem Parameswaran 
Member, Asian Americans Advisory Commission,&nbsp;Bimal Patel&nbsp;Assistant Secretary, Treasury for Financial Institutions,&nbsp;Manisha Singh 
Assistant Secretary, Economic &amp; Business affairs bureau,&nbsp;Ajit Pai&nbsp;Chairman, Federal Communications Commission,&nbsp;Seema Verma 
Administrator, centres for Medicaid Services,&nbsp;Kash Patel&nbsp;Adviser, National Security Council &amp;&nbsp;Sampat Shivangi&nbsp;Republican fundraiser.

&nbsp;

Several high profile Indians will be accompanying US President Donald Trump during his visit to India. Also read- Ahmedabad: Preparations in full swing ahead of Trump's maiden visit to India Indian-Americans in top government positions view Trump’s India visit as an opportunity to send a message to the immigrant community in the US.

Several high profile Indians will be accompanying US President Donald Trump during his visit to India. Also read- Ahmedabad: Preparations in full swing ahead of Trump's maiden visit to India Indian-Americans in top government positions view Trump’s India visit as an opportunity to send a message to the immigrant community in the US. Indian Americans that are most likely to accompany the US president are Rita Baranwal, Prem Parameswaran, Bimal Patel, Manisha Singh, Ajit Pai, Seema Verma, Kash Patel and Sampat Shivangi. × This is an election year for Trump and he is likely to use the optics around his Delhi and Ahmedabad visits to reach out to the Indian-American electorate back home. The members who are set to be in Trump's visit include: Rita Baranwal Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy, Prem Parameswaran Member, Asian Americans Advisory Commission, Bimal Patel Assistant Secretary, Treasury for Financial Institutions, Manisha Singh Assistant Secretary, Economic & Business affairs bureau, Ajit Pai Chairman, Federal Communications Commission, Seema Verma Administrator, centres for Medicaid Services, Kash Patel Adviser, National Security Council & Sampat Shivangi Republican fundraiser.

Several Indian-Americans to accompany President Trump during India visit

India has offered to partially open up its poultry and dairy markets in a bid for a limited trade deal during US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's first official visit to the country this month, people familiar with the protracted talks say.

India, the world's largest milk-producing nation, has traditionally restricted dairy imports to protect the livelihoods of 80 million rural households involved in the industry.

But Prime Minister Narendra Modi is trying to pull all the stops for the US&nbsp;president's Feb. 24-25 visit, aimed at rebuilding bonds between the world's largest democracies.

In 2019, Trump suspended India's special trade designation that dated back to 1970s, after Modi put price caps on medical devices, such as cardiac stents and knee implants, and introduced new data localization requirements and e-commerce restrictions.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-drops-india-from-developing-nations-list-barring-trade-benefits-280252">US drops India from developing nations list barring trade benefits</a>

Trump's trip to India has raised hopes that he would restore some of the country's US&nbsp;trade preferences, in exchange for tariff reductions and other concessions.

The United States is India's second-largest trade partner after China, and bilateral goods and services trade climbed to a record $142.6 billion in 2018. The United States had a $23.2 billion goods trade deficit in 2019 with India, its 9th largest trading partner in goods.

India has offered to allow imports of US&nbsp;chicken legs, turkey and produce such as blueberries and cherries, Indian government sources said and has offered to cut tariffs on chicken legs from 100 per cent&nbsp;to 25 per cent. US&nbsp;negotiators want that tariff cut to 10 per cent.

The Modi government is also offering to allow some access to India's dairy market, but with a 5 per cent&nbsp;tariff and quotas, the sources said. But dairy imports would need a certificate they are not derived from animals that have consumed feeds that include internal organs, blood meal or tissues of ruminants.

New Delhi has also offered to lower its 50 per cent tariffs on very large motorcycles made by Harley-Davidson, a tax that was a particular irritant for Trump, who has labelled India the "tariff king." The change would be largely symbolic because few such motorcycles are sold in India.

Trump will be feted in Modi's home state of Gujarat, then hold talks in New Delhi and attend a reception that the hosts have promised will be bigger than the one organised for former president Barack Obama in 2015.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/latest-india-news-indo-us-trade-deal-likely-during-donald-trumps-india-visit-sources-278891">Indo-US trade deal likely during Donald Trump's India visit</a>

Enough for Lighthizer

But it is far from clear whether India's offers will be enough to satisfy US&nbsp;Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who cancelled plans for a trip to India this week. Instead, he has held telephone talks with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.

The US&nbsp;dairy industry remained sceptical on Thursday that a viable deal is at hand.

"We're always looking for market access, but in terms of India, as of today I'm not aware of any real progress going on," said Michael Dykes, president of the International Dairy Foods Association and a member of USTR's agricultural trade policy advisory committee.

Dykes said the US&nbsp;dairy industry was looking for access in viable commercial quantities.

A USTR spokesman and India's trade ministry did not respond to requests for comment.

Privacy law complications

An Indian parliament panel is reviewing a draft data privacy law that imposes stringent controls over cross-border data flows and gives the government powers to seek user data from companies.

It is not clear whether it will be passed, or in what form, but the possibilities have unnerved US&nbsp;companies and could raise compliance requirements for Google, Amazon.com Inc, and Facebook.

The draft law is not part of the trade discussions, Indian officials say, because the issue is too difficult to resolve at the same time.

"The privacy and localization piece will be raised independently and in concert with the trade discussions," said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the US&nbsp;administration's thinking.

Trump on Tuesday was non-committal about sealing a trade deal before his visit. "If we can make the right deal, we'll do it," he told reporters.

Two US&nbsp;sources said progress had been made on proposed alterations to the medical device price caps. India's new import tariffs on medical devices, walnuts, toys, electronics and other products on Feb. 1 surprised US&nbsp;negotiators.

The new tariffs were aimed at China, which also makes medical devices, according to an Indian government source. "We have to protect our market and our companies," the source said.

India has offered to partially open up its poultry and dairy markets in a bid for a limited trade deal during US President Donald Trump's first official visit to the country this month, people familiar with the protracted talks say.

India has offered to partially open up its poultry and dairy markets in a bid for a limited trade deal during US President Donald Trump's first official visit to the country this month, people familiar with the protracted talks say. India, the world's largest milk-producing nation, has traditionally restricted dairy imports to protect the livelihoods of 80 million rural households involved in the industry. But Prime Minister Narendra Modi is trying to pull all the stops for the US president's Feb. 24-25 visit, aimed at rebuilding bonds between the world's largest democracies. In 2019, Trump suspended India's special trade designation that dated back to 1970s, after Modi put price caps on medical devices, such as cardiac stents and knee implants, and introduced new data localization requirements and e-commerce restrictions. Also read: US drops India from developing nations list barring trade benefits Trump's trip to India has raised hopes that he would restore some of the country's US trade preferences, in exchange for tariff reductions and other concessions. The United States is India's second-largest trade partner after China, and bilateral goods and services trade climbed to a record $142.6 billion in 2018. The United States had a $23.2 billion goods trade deficit in 2019 with India, its 9th largest trading partner in goods. India has offered to allow imports of US chicken legs, turkey and produce such as blueberries and cherries, Indian government sources said and has offered to cut tariffs on chicken legs from 100 per cent to 25 per cent. US negotiators want that tariff cut to 10 per cent. The Modi government is also offering to allow some access to India's dairy market, but with a 5 per cent tariff and quotas, the sources said. But dairy imports would need a certificate they are not derived from animals that have consumed feeds that include internal organs, blood meal or tissues of ruminants. New Delhi has also offered to lower its 50 per cent tariffs on very large motorcycles made by Harley-Davidson, a tax that was a particular irritant for Trump, who has labelled India the "tariff king." The change would be largely symbolic because few such motorcycles are sold in India. Trump will be feted in Modi's home state of Gujarat, then hold talks in New Delhi and attend a reception that the hosts have promised will be bigger than the one organised for former president Barack Obama in 2015. Also read: Indo-US trade deal likely during Donald Trump's India visit Enough for Lighthizer But it is far from clear whether India's offers will be enough to satisfy US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, who cancelled plans for a trip to India this week. Instead, he has held telephone talks with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. The US dairy industry remained sceptical on Thursday that a viable deal is at hand. "We're always looking for market access, but in terms of India, as of today I'm not aware of any real progress going on," said Michael Dykes, president of the International Dairy Foods Association and a member of USTR's agricultural trade policy advisory committee. Dykes said the US dairy industry was looking for access in viable commercial quantities. A USTR spokesman and India's trade ministry did not respond to requests for comment. Privacy law complications An Indian parliament panel is reviewing a draft data privacy law that imposes stringent controls over cross-border data flows and gives the government powers to seek user data from companies. It is not clear whether it will be passed, or in what form, but the possibilities have unnerved US companies and could raise compliance requirements for Google, Amazon.com Inc, and Facebook. The draft law is not part of the trade discussions, Indian officials say, because the issue is too difficult to resolve at the same time. "The privacy and localization piece will be raised independently and in concert with the trade discussions," said a Washington-based source with knowledge of the US administration's thinking. Trump on Tuesday was non-committal about sealing a trade deal before his visit. "If we can make the right deal, we'll do it," he told reporters. Two US sources said progress had been made on proposed alterations to the medical device price caps. India's new import tariffs on medical devices, walnuts, toys, electronics and other products on Feb. 1 surprised US negotiators. The new tariffs were aimed at China, which also makes medical devices, according to an Indian government source. "We have to protect our market and our companies," the source said.

India offers US dairy, chicken access in bid for elusive trade deal with Trump

US President Donald Trump is a showman, his extreme rhetoric won him votes but his bluster on Twitter and impulsive diplomacy have caused more pains than gains for America.&nbsp;

The US President is scheduled to travel to India&nbsp;on February 24 and 25. Ahead of his visit, let's find out if&nbsp;Donald Trump is India's best bet for a strong relationship with the United States?

Previous American Presidents have maintained a steady policy towards India. Bill Clinton called out Pakistan for violating the line of control during the Kargil war.

This was the first time that an American President publically sided with India against Pakistan. In 2005, George Bush signed a historic deal - this agreement lifted a three-decade-old moratorium on Nuclear trade with India.

Despite his initial reservations, Barack Obama pushed for America's defence alliance with India, among other things, he understood how important a market India is. 
 
WATCH:&nbsp;

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He was the first American President to attend the Republic Day celebrations as a chief guest. Under Obama, America elevated India's status to a major defence partner.

Of course, all these presidents also kept giving military and other aid to Pakistan in their miscalculated and poorly executed war on terror. But on India, there was gradual progress and some semblance of consistency.

However, under Donald Trump, you can't be sure - one day he's your best friend, the next day he's mocking you. As far as India is concerned, he has little to show in terms of achievements or progress. His foreign policy is erratic.

Just before his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump tried to set the tone. He said that tariffs on American goods are unacceptable and they must be withdrawn.

This was a&nbsp;clear attempt at pressure tactics by the American President. He calls himself the best deal maker, but he's yet to make a winning deal as President. The word that describes him is disruptive and not of a good kind.

He removed a preferential trade status to India. Since taking office, Trump has tried to cut back on H1B&nbsp;Visas to Indian techies.

As of November, the denials had gone up from six to 24 per cent. Americans are transactional, Trump is another level.

This is what explains why India and the US have not been able to close a trade deal for so long. 
 
Trump is&nbsp;working on re-election. Everything he does is campaign fodder. &nbsp;

So, he would want an agreement, even a modest one to showcase at home. But he will be hard to negotiate with. On the plus side,&nbsp;relations between nations are bigger than the men and women ruling them. Indo-US ties are strong, with or without Trump.

There is bipartisan support in favour of this relationship. Three things work for India:

1. It's a big market.

2. It's a major defence buyer.

3. Strategically, America needs India.

American policymakers see India as an obvious counterweight to China because of India's size, location and economic prospects. And as the past has shown, any American President will have to find a way to work with India. &nbsp;

We are not sure if Donald Trump can provide the stability that this relationship needs. His erratic behaviour, narcissistic tendencies and disruptive approach to foreign policy do not inspire confidence.

But he's the man America has chosen and if he secures a second term, expect the rollercoaster ride to continue for the next four years. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump is a showman, his extreme rhetoric won him votes but his bluster on Twitter and impulsive diplomacy have caused more pains than gains for America.

US President Donald Trump is a showman, his extreme rhetoric won him votes but his bluster on Twitter and impulsive diplomacy have caused more pains than gains for America. The US President is scheduled to travel to India on February 24 and 25. Ahead of his visit, let's find out if Donald Trump is India's best bet for a strong relationship with the United States? Previous American Presidents have maintained a steady policy towards India. Bill Clinton called out Pakistan for violating the line of control during the Kargil war. This was the first time that an American President publically sided with India against Pakistan. In 2005, George Bush signed a historic deal - this agreement lifted a three-decade-old moratorium on Nuclear trade with India. Despite his initial reservations, Barack Obama pushed for America's defence alliance with India, among other things, he understood how important a market India is. WATCH: × He was the first American President to attend the Republic Day celebrations as a chief guest. Under Obama, America elevated India's status to a major defence partner. Of course, all these presidents also kept giving military and other aid to Pakistan in their miscalculated and poorly executed war on terror. But on India, there was gradual progress and some semblance of consistency. However, under Donald Trump, you can't be sure - one day he's your best friend, the next day he's mocking you. As far as India is concerned, he has little to show in terms of achievements or progress. His foreign policy is erratic. Just before his meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump tried to set the tone. He said that tariffs on American goods are unacceptable and they must be withdrawn. This was a clear attempt at pressure tactics by the American President. He calls himself the best deal maker, but he's yet to make a winning deal as President. The word that describes him is disruptive and not of a good kind. He removed a preferential trade status to India. Since taking office, Trump has tried to cut back on H1B Visas to Indian techies. As of November, the denials had gone up from six to 24 per cent. Americans are transactional, Trump is another level. This is what explains why India and the US have not been able to close a trade deal for so long. Trump is working on re-election. Everything he does is campaign fodder. So, he would want an agreement, even a modest one to showcase at home. But he will be hard to negotiate with. On the plus side, relations between nations are bigger than the men and women ruling them. Indo-US ties are strong, with or without Trump. There is bipartisan support in favour of this relationship. Three things work for India: 1. It's a big market. 2. It's a major defence buyer. 3. Strategically, America needs India. American policymakers see India as an obvious counterweight to China because of India's size, location and economic prospects. And as the past has shown, any American President will have to find a way to work with India. We are not sure if Donald Trump can provide the stability that this relationship needs. His erratic behaviour, narcissistic tendencies and disruptive approach to foreign policy do not inspire confidence. But he's the man America has chosen and if he secures a second term, expect the rollercoaster ride to continue for the next four years. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Donald Trump India visit - can India deal with the US President?

US President Donald Trump watches WION, World is one. Just 5 days before his India visit he retweets WION. India all set to roll out the red carpet.

Donald Trump Retweets WION

President Trump has named Richard Grenell, the vocal and controversial US ambassador to Germany, as the new acting director of national intelligence, replacing the current acting head of the nation's 17 spy agencies.

Donald Trump names German envoy as head of US intelligence

Today, we lament the loss of the media's credibility, but the fact is that it has often been questioned in the past too.

The line between News and propaganda is a fine one. When states target News outfits in a proxy battle, then it's time to revisit the rules.

Let's discuss how the media can tread this fine line in the age of nationalistic politics and trigger happy diplomacy? How can the media safeguard its Independence?

Is the media really independent or is it a handmaiden of political powers? Is it only corporate or government ownership that compromises the media? or do obvious political biases play a role?

There's a lot of ground to cover, as always we start with some figures - just 9 per cent of the world's population live in countries where journalists can operate freely and independently.

This is according to a report by reporters without borders, in the rest of the world, strongmen are rising and press freedoms are eroding.

Media outlets face an existential crisis - both in monetary and moral terms. It's a tough balancing act, if you don't question the powers that be, you're not doing your job.

But if you criticise them, you lose access or in extreme cases your licence to operate.&nbsp;

Two years ago, Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha found a new way to dodge tricky questions from the press - he installed a cardboard cutout at a press conference.

Three years back, Czech president Milos Zeman waved a mock rifle at journalists - again at a press conference. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has a reputation of threatening and abusing journalists.

And who can forget this fiery exchange between US President Donald Trump and a CNN correspondent. The American government revoked his press credentials for quizzing Trump.

Jim Acosta won back access to the white house in court. It's a sign of the times - in the age of nationalism, leaders are more confrontational, they see the press as a party to political battles.

And they take on the press as they would take on the Opposition - political leanings, and not objectivity, dictate media coverage. And media outlets face the consequences of such compromises.

Attacking state-owned media is now a legitimate tool of diplomatic retaliation - America leads the world here. It first declared Russian state media as foreign agents, now it is targetting Chinese organisations. &nbsp;

The Trump administration says it is cracking down on propaganda machinery of rival states - there is some merit to that argument.

Around the world, the press has now begun to wear their political leanings on their sleeves. News stories turn into hit jobs or politically motivated campaigns.

It's becoming harder to distinguish news from comment, fact from fiction and reports from opinion. Governments are arming themselves with state media machinery to counter negative reportage and set the narrative.

In the age of social media, leaders have found ways to bypass the gatekeepers of mass media and communicate directly with the people.&nbsp;

Any story, opinion or thought that doesn't fit the official narrative is challenged - the result is stronger scrutiny of journalists and more barriers in their path.

These are challenging times for the global press and branding journalists as state agents is another low. 
 
&nbsp;

Today, we lament the loss of the media's credibility, but the fact is that it has often been questioned in the past too. The line between News and propaganda is a fine one.

Today, we lament the loss of the media's credibility, but the fact is that it has often been questioned in the past too. The line between News and propaganda is a fine one. When states target News outfits in a proxy battle, then it's time to revisit the rules. Let's discuss how the media can tread this fine line in the age of nationalistic politics and trigger happy diplomacy? How can the media safeguard its Independence? Is the media really independent or is it a handmaiden of political powers? Is it only corporate or government ownership that compromises the media? or do obvious political biases play a role? There's a lot of ground to cover, as always we start with some figures - just 9 per cent of the world's population live in countries where journalists can operate freely and independently. This is according to a report by reporters without borders, in the rest of the world, strongmen are rising and press freedoms are eroding. Media outlets face an existential crisis - both in monetary and moral terms. It's a tough balancing act, if you don't question the powers that be, you're not doing your job. But if you criticise them, you lose access or in extreme cases your licence to operate. Two years ago, Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha found a new way to dodge tricky questions from the press - he installed a cardboard cutout at a press conference. Three years back, Czech president Milos Zeman waved a mock rifle at journalists - again at a press conference. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has a reputation of threatening and abusing journalists. And who can forget this fiery exchange between US President Donald Trump and a CNN correspondent. The American government revoked his press credentials for quizzing Trump. Jim Acosta won back access to the white house in court. It's a sign of the times - in the age of nationalism, leaders are more confrontational, they see the press as a party to political battles. And they take on the press as they would take on the Opposition - political leanings, and not objectivity, dictate media coverage. And media outlets face the consequences of such compromises. Attacking state-owned media is now a legitimate tool of diplomatic retaliation - America leads the world here. It first declared Russian state media as foreign agents, now it is targetting Chinese organisations. The Trump administration says it is cracking down on propaganda machinery of rival states - there is some merit to that argument. Around the world, the press has now begun to wear their political leanings on their sleeves. News stories turn into hit jobs or politically motivated campaigns. It's becoming harder to distinguish news from comment, fact from fiction and reports from opinion. Governments are arming themselves with state media machinery to counter negative reportage and set the narrative. In the age of social media, leaders have found ways to bypass the gatekeepers of mass media and communicate directly with the people. Any story, opinion or thought that doesn't fit the official narrative is challenged - the result is stronger scrutiny of journalists and more barriers in their path. These are challenging times for the global press and branding journalists as state agents is another low.

WION Edit: Attacking the media, a tool for diplomatic retaliation?

EU countries have no reason to use 5G mobile technology from Huawei because Sweden's Ericsson, Finland's Nokia and South Korea's Samsung are on par with the Chinese group in the field, a senior US diplomat said.

EU countries have no reason to use 5G mobile technology from Huawei because Sweden's Ericsson, Finland's Nokia and South Korea's Samsung are on par with the Chinese group in the field, a senior US diplomat said. Robert Strayer, deputy assistant secretary for cyber, international communications and information policy at the US State Department, said on a visit to Lisbon it was "necessary to demystify" the notion that Huawei is more advanced in 5G. Washington wants its allies to ban Huawei, the world's largest producer of telecoms equipment, arguing the use of its kit creates the potential for espionage by China - a claim denied by Huawei and Beijing. Also Read: Why global battle over Huawei could prove more disruptive than Donald Trump’s trade war with China Its stance has sparked tensions with allies such as Britain, whose Prime Minister Boris Johnson has granted Huawei a limited role in building a 5G mobile network. Strayer said the United States is encouraging European countries to think carefully about the security and economic implications of rushing forward with using Huawei's technology. "There is no way to fully mitigate any type of risk except the use of trusted vendors from democratic countries," Strayer told reporters. "The good news is Ericsson, Nokia and Samsung all provide 5G technology that is on par with the one Huawei is providing today. They are leading the world in the type of technology they have." Watch: US expands lawsuit against Huawei Huawei says it spent $15 billion last year on research to help it achieve market leadership and has said the United States wants to frustrate its growth because no US company could offer the same range of technology at a competitive price. Strayer said Western vendors such as Ericsson and Nokia will use an open architecture with more functionality, creating opportunities for companies in the United States and Europe to provide compatible equipment. American companies like Dell, Cisco, Juniper and VMware "want to play a future role", he said, seeing many European companies also getting involved. The European Union has said it would allow members to decide what part China's Huawei can play in 5G networks. Portugal last month approved guidelines for its 5G strategy and launched a working group to permanently monitor the risks and security of this network.

US urges EU to use 5G by Ericsson, Nokia, Samsung, seen on par with Huawei

The bilateral relations between the United States and China seem to have taken a turn for the worse. Washington has designated five Chinese media houses as not practitioners of journalism but as 'Foreign Mission'.

Your Story: US designates Chinese media houses as state operatives

Oil prices rose on Wednesday, with Brent gaining for a seventh straight day after a slowing of new coronavirus cases in China eased demand worries and supply was curtailed by a US move to cut more Venezuelan crude from the market.

Oil prices rose on Wednesday, with Brent gaining for a seventh straight day after a slowing of new coronavirus cases in China eased demand worries and supply was curtailed by a US move to cut more Venezuelan crude from the market. Brent crude was up by 75 cents at $58.50 a barrel by 1003 GMT, while US oil was up 66 cents at $52.71 a barrel. China, the world's second-largest economy, has imposed city lockdowns and travel restrictions to contain a virus that has now killed more than 2,000 people, stoking concern over an economic slowdown and a hit to oil demand. Also Read: Oil prices fall on oversupply worries as virus hits China demand "Those in doubt of the economic impact from the virus should take heed from Apple's surprise sales warning ... Put simply, this is the surest sign yet of the coronavirus fallout on the global economy," said PVM analysts in a note. S&P Global Ratings said it expected coronavirus would deliver a "short-term blow" to economic growth in China in the first quarter, echoing findings by the International Energy Agency. Official data showed new cases in China fell for a second straight day, although the World Health Organisation has cautioned there is not enough data to know if the epidemic is being contained. Brent has risen nearly 10 per cent since falling last week to its lowest this year. The market structure is also showing signs of prompt demand for oil picking up, as the front-month Brent futures market is moving deeper back into backwardation when near-term prices are higher than later-dated prices. Also Read: China virus could hit oil prices by $3 per barrel: Goldman This week, oil prices were also buoyed by a US decision to blacklist a trading subsidiary of Russia's Rosneft which President Donald Trump's administration said provided a financial lifeline to Venezuela's government. The grouping, known as OPEC+, has been withholding supply to support prices and meets next month to decide a response to the downturn in demand resulting from the coronavirus epidemic. But in the United States, which is not party to any supply cut agreements, crude oil production has been rising as shale output grows. US shale production is expected to rise to a record 9.2 million barrels a day next month, according to the Energy Information Administration.

Oil up on slowing pace of coronavirus, Venezuela sanctions

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