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

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

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

Expanding defence partnership a significant pillar in Indo-US ties

When the American President, Donald Trump, addressing a 50,000 strong Indian - American crowd in Houston said, “I am so thrilled to be here at the great state of Texas with one of America’s greatest, most devoted and loyal friends, Prime Minister Modi”, the words and its associated impact, reverberated across the globe.&nbsp;

This camaraderie has come full circle with 'Namaste Trump', where Trump’s opening remarks are seemingly manifested in his, “… America respects India and America will always be faithful and loyal friends to the Indian people.”Such emphatic words are not entirely uncommon in Trump’s oration. However, the understated importance that his words carry for India and the Indian- American diaspora in this backdrop is laced with ambivalence. &nbsp;

The point of interest, in his speech at Motera, is when he can be heard saying, “In America, we have come to know of the splendour of Indian culture through its 4 million Indian-Americans living in the United States. They are truly spectacular people. Indian Americans enrich every aspect of our national life. They are titans of business, pioneers of Science, masters of art, innovation and technology.” The Trump-Modi show, without a doubt, has loomed larger than life, but the underlined question remains: Who and what are both Modi and Trump, openly serenading? Answer to this stays with the political capital that the Indian- American diaspora brings to US-India ties.&nbsp;

A value analysis of the diaspora optics makes for a moot point, in that, for a developing-world country like India, to be able to even get into the game of even, with the most enterprising nation in the world is in itself a huge plus for New Delhi and its current dispensation, catapulting Modi to a higher political stratosphere.&nbsp;

In Howdy, Modi, the optics and crowd size appeared to be Trump’s main motivations to take the unprecedented step of attending a large ethnic rally for a foreign leader. In the same fashion, Namaste Trump follows suit, in what appears as though Indian side thinks of the optics (and) the event mobilisation as something of a deliverable.&nbsp;

The Modi rally in Houston was an opportunity for Trump to present himself as a supporter of legal immigrants while opposing illegal immigration - "We are proud to have you as Americans," Trump said, praising the Indian diaspora for accepting American values. This, I think, makes for an interesting observation. He seems to send across a view of holding this diaspora as the kind of immigrants he would like for America. Indian Americans comprise the second biggest sub-group of Asian immigrants after the Chinese. According to the Pew Research Centre, Indians are the highest-earning ethnic group in the US, with a median income of $100,000, which is almost double that of the national median, and also the highest of any ethnic group in the US. &nbsp;

Stands in juxtaposition to Trump’s glorification of the Indian-American diaspora is his immigration policies. 'Namaste Trump' which was predicated on 'Howdy Modi', has garnered enough pomp, but has it managed to walk the talk, is something one needs to closely understand. The Indian-American community is currently suffering the brunt of the US’ tightened policy on the H1B visa, a non-immigrant document for temporary workers, of which they are the largest beneficiary – nearly 76 per cent of all H1B holders are Indian. In addition to it, Trump’s affirmations to revoke the H-4 work permit for the spouses of H1B visa holders, which will render thousands of Indians unable to work in the US.&nbsp;

A sharp decline in US visas provided to highly skilled workers can be seen affecting the diaspora adversely. The point of contention here is, Trump’s rhetoric of pitting one “model” minority against another does not and will not bode well with the community. Trump has billed Asians and Indians as model minorities who were “skilled” and had entered the country the legal way, as opposed to others, mostly from Central and Latin America, who did so illegally.&nbsp;

That said, there is enough reason to believe that a bulk of the Indian-American community loves Modi, as evidenced by how actively the community supported him earlier this year when he was seeking re-election. As US citizens, they could not vote, but that did not stop them from campaigning hard, with some travelling to India. In trying to tie the two subsets together with an overarching structure, it compels us to look at the diaspora diplomacy in the backdrop of a larger Modi-Trump narrative vis-à-vis Indian – Americans as agents of mobilisation. 
 
Both 'Howdy Modi' and 'Namaste Trump', have all the bearings of a changing world order that’s marked more by symbiotic compulsions rather than a Big Brother’s one-upmanship that the globe is currently witnessing. Since Indian-Americans are overwhelmingly a Democrat, the fact that they can be supportive of Hindu supremacists while dissenting against right-wing White Supremacists (in the US) is telling of a diaspora who is not overtly subservient to the larger politics at play. &nbsp;

Add to that, a programme arranged entirely by and for the Indian diaspora in America, to offer a public podium to a visiting prime minister, had well and truly transcended the protocol-bound, dogmatic plane of diplomacy and immersed itself into a celebration of Indo-US ties, whereby, the holders of the highest public offices in the world’s largest and oldest democracies not only walked in terms of their shared concerns for areas of common interests, but were also seen holding hands, literally, for much of their public appearance together. 
 
All is not white and black for this subgroup, but due credit can be attested to the diaspora, who has worked tirelessly in ensuring their status quo and keeping at it, while the future inroads and crossroads made with events like 'Howdy Modi' and 'Namaste Trump' dictate a different tomorrow for India-US ties. &nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

When the American President, Donald Trump, addressing a 50,000 strong Indian - American crowd in Houston said, “I am so thrilled to be here at the great state of Texas with one of America’s greatest, most devoted and loyal friends, Prime Minister Modi”, the words and its associated impact, reverberated across the globe.

When the American President, Donald Trump, addressing a 50,000 strong Indian - American crowd in Houston said, “I am so thrilled to be here at the great state of Texas with one of America’s greatest, most devoted and loyal friends, Prime Minister Modi”, the words and its associated impact, reverberated across the globe. This camaraderie has come full circle with 'Namaste Trump', where Trump’s opening remarks are seemingly manifested in his, “… America respects India and America will always be faithful and loyal friends to the Indian people.”Such emphatic words are not entirely uncommon in Trump’s oration. However, the understated importance that his words carry for India and the Indian- American diaspora in this backdrop is laced with ambivalence. The point of interest, in his speech at Motera, is when he can be heard saying, “In America, we have come to know of the splendour of Indian culture through its 4 million Indian-Americans living in the United States. They are truly spectacular people. Indian Americans enrich every aspect of our national life. They are titans of business, pioneers of Science, masters of art, innovation and technology.” The Trump-Modi show, without a doubt, has loomed larger than life, but the underlined question remains: Who and what are both Modi and Trump, openly serenading? Answer to this stays with the political capital that the Indian- American diaspora brings to US-India ties. A value analysis of the diaspora optics makes for a moot point, in that, for a developing-world country like India, to be able to even get into the game of even, with the most enterprising nation in the world is in itself a huge plus for New Delhi and its current dispensation, catapulting Modi to a higher political stratosphere. In Howdy, Modi, the optics and crowd size appeared to be Trump’s main motivations to take the unprecedented step of attending a large ethnic rally for a foreign leader. In the same fashion, Namaste Trump follows suit, in what appears as though Indian side thinks of the optics (and) the event mobilisation as something of a deliverable. The Modi rally in Houston was an opportunity for Trump to present himself as a supporter of legal immigrants while opposing illegal immigration - "We are proud to have you as Americans," Trump said, praising the Indian diaspora for accepting American values. This, I think, makes for an interesting observation. He seems to send across a view of holding this diaspora as the kind of immigrants he would like for America. Indian Americans comprise the second biggest sub-group of Asian immigrants after the Chinese. According to the Pew Research Centre, Indians are the highest-earning ethnic group in the US, with a median income of $100,000, which is almost double that of the national median, and also the highest of any ethnic group in the US. Stands in juxtaposition to Trump’s glorification of the Indian-American diaspora is his immigration policies. 'Namaste Trump' which was predicated on 'Howdy Modi', has garnered enough pomp, but has it managed to walk the talk, is something one needs to closely understand. The Indian-American community is currently suffering the brunt of the US’ tightened policy on the H1B visa, a non-immigrant document for temporary workers, of which they are the largest beneficiary – nearly 76 per cent of all H1B holders are Indian. In addition to it, Trump’s affirmations to revoke the H-4 work permit for the spouses of H1B visa holders, which will render thousands of Indians unable to work in the US. A sharp decline in US visas provided to highly skilled workers can be seen affecting the diaspora adversely. The point of contention here is, Trump’s rhetoric of pitting one “model” minority against another does not and will not bode well with the community. Trump has billed Asians and Indians as model minorities who were “skilled” and had entered the country the legal way, as opposed to others, mostly from Central and Latin America, who did so illegally. That said, there is enough reason to believe that a bulk of the Indian-American community loves Modi, as evidenced by how actively the community supported him earlier this year when he was seeking re-election. As US citizens, they could not vote, but that did not stop them from campaigning hard, with some travelling to India. In trying to tie the two subsets together with an overarching structure, it compels us to look at the diaspora diplomacy in the backdrop of a larger Modi-Trump narrative vis-à-vis Indian – Americans as agents of mobilisation. Both 'Howdy Modi' and 'Namaste Trump', have all the bearings of a changing world order that’s marked more by symbiotic compulsions rather than a Big Brother’s one-upmanship that the globe is currently witnessing. Since Indian-Americans are overwhelmingly a Democrat, the fact that they can be supportive of Hindu supremacists while dissenting against right-wing White Supremacists (in the US) is telling of a diaspora who is not overtly subservient to the larger politics at play. Add to that, a programme arranged entirely by and for the Indian diaspora in America, to offer a public podium to a visiting prime minister, had well and truly transcended the protocol-bound, dogmatic plane of diplomacy and immersed itself into a celebration of Indo-US ties, whereby, the holders of the highest public offices in the world’s largest and oldest democracies not only walked in terms of their shared concerns for areas of common interests, but were also seen holding hands, literally, for much of their public appearance together. All is not white and black for this subgroup, but due credit can be attested to the diaspora, who has worked tirelessly in ensuring their status quo and keeping at it, while the future inroads and crossroads made with events like 'Howdy Modi' and 'Namaste Trump' dictate a different tomorrow for India-US ties. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Diaspora dynamics in 'Howdy Modi' to 'Namaste Trump'

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

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

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

WION Edit: A new dawn for India-US ties

American and Indian national interests are clearly converging.

President Donald Trump will, therefore, strive to enhance US&nbsp;- India bilateral relations with the context of a multilateral environment.

What does that mean?

I refer back to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s concept of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), first articulated in 2015.

SAGAR stresses the importance of the Indian Ocean to India and the close alignment between Indian and global interests, as Dhruva Jaishankar outlined in his article “Indian Ocean Region: A Pivot for India’s Growth:

“(i) preserving freedom of navigation for commercial shipping, (ii) sustainably and equitably harnessing the Indian Ocean’s natural resources, (iii) establishing protocols for enhancing disaster prevention and relief as well as search and rescue operations, (iv) countering piracy, terrorism, smuggling, and illegal weapons proliferation, and (v) managing international naval competition.”

It is no accident that regional security is the fundamental component ensuring that the benefits of regional economic growth can be realized.

Acknowledging and de facto supporting Prime Minister Modi’s SAGAR strategy, it is also no accident that the United States recently renamed its military Pacific Command to the Indo-Pacific Command.

The foundation of growing US – India strategic convergence has been the recognition of potential Chinese economic hegemony and military expansion in South Asia, especially via China’s close alliance with Pakistan and Pakistan’s own obsession with the use of terrorism as an instrument of foreign policy, all threats to the Modi SAGAR goals.

It is, therefore, not surprising that increased US-India defence cooperation has been the leading element in the expanding relationship and a segue to a new trade agreement likely to be completed within the next year.

Last November, the US&nbsp;and India completed their most expansive joint military exercises in history amid efforts to coordinate more ambitiously on challenges in the Indo-Pacific region as outlined in the SAGAR doctrine.

Sales of American weapons systems to India have concomitantly increased, which has included Apache attack helicopters for anti-terrorist operations, Seahawk helicopters for the Indian navy, C-17 heavy air-lift sustainment and anti-surface warfare and anti-air defence MK 45 5 inch/62 calibre (MOD 4) naval guns.

The need for greater US&nbsp;– India coordination will only increase as the American forces withdraw from Afghanistan and the Trump legacy in that regard will be determined by ensuing regional events precipitated by that withdrawal.

Both India and the United States have a shared interest in preventing strategic adversaries, namely China and Pakistan, from unduly benefitting from that withdrawal at the expense of regional stability and a balance of power.

Make no mistake, China seeks global domination. One vehicle to achieve it is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a collection of infrastructure projects and a network of commercial agreements in 152 countries designed to link the entire world directly to the Chinese economy through interconnected land-based and maritime routes.

&nbsp;A critical part of BRI is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), an infrastructure and development project, the backbone of which is a transportation network connecting China to the Pakistani seaports of Gwadar and Karachi located on the Arabian Sea

The guarantor of that soft power approach is the hard power of Chinese military expansion.

China plans to establish a naval and air bases on the Arabian Sea within easy reach of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. That military facility will complement China’s already operational naval base in Djibouti, located at another strategic chokepoint, the entrance to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal.

All of that is the opposite of what Prime Minister Modi seeks to achieve through SAGAR.

It may be that the outcome of the Modi-Trump meeting and subsequent greater US– India cooperation may largely determine peace, stability, economic prosperity and the democratic future of the Indo-Pacific region.

Both the stakes and the potential benefits are that high.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

American and Indian national interests are clearly converging. President Donald Trump will, therefore, strive to enhance US - India bilateral relations with the context of a multilateral environment.

American and Indian national interests are clearly converging. President Donald Trump will, therefore, strive to enhance US - India bilateral relations with the context of a multilateral environment. What does that mean? I refer back to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s concept of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), first articulated in 2015. SAGAR stresses the importance of the Indian Ocean to India and the close alignment between Indian and global interests, as Dhruva Jaishankar outlined in his article “Indian Ocean Region: A Pivot for India’s Growth: “(i) preserving freedom of navigation for commercial shipping, (ii) sustainably and equitably harnessing the Indian Ocean’s natural resources, (iii) establishing protocols for enhancing disaster prevention and relief as well as search and rescue operations, (iv) countering piracy, terrorism, smuggling, and illegal weapons proliferation, and (v) managing international naval competition.” It is no accident that regional security is the fundamental component ensuring that the benefits of regional economic growth can be realized. Acknowledging and de facto supporting Prime Minister Modi’s SAGAR strategy, it is also no accident that the United States recently renamed its military Pacific Command to the Indo-Pacific Command. The foundation of growing US – India strategic convergence has been the recognition of potential Chinese economic hegemony and military expansion in South Asia, especially via China’s close alliance with Pakistan and Pakistan’s own obsession with the use of terrorism as an instrument of foreign policy, all threats to the Modi SAGAR goals. It is, therefore, not surprising that increased US-India defence cooperation has been the leading element in the expanding relationship and a segue to a new trade agreement likely to be completed within the next year. Last November, the US and India completed their most expansive joint military exercises in history amid efforts to coordinate more ambitiously on challenges in the Indo-Pacific region as outlined in the SAGAR doctrine. Sales of American weapons systems to India have concomitantly increased, which has included Apache attack helicopters for anti-terrorist operations, Seahawk helicopters for the Indian navy, C-17 heavy air-lift sustainment and anti-surface warfare and anti-air defence MK 45 5 inch/62 calibre (MOD 4) naval guns. The need for greater US – India coordination will only increase as the American forces withdraw from Afghanistan and the Trump legacy in that regard will be determined by ensuing regional events precipitated by that withdrawal. Both India and the United States have a shared interest in preventing strategic adversaries, namely China and Pakistan, from unduly benefitting from that withdrawal at the expense of regional stability and a balance of power. Make no mistake, China seeks global domination. One vehicle to achieve it is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a collection of infrastructure projects and a network of commercial agreements in 152 countries designed to link the entire world directly to the Chinese economy through interconnected land-based and maritime routes. A critical part of BRI is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), an infrastructure and development project, the backbone of which is a transportation network connecting China to the Pakistani seaports of Gwadar and Karachi located on the Arabian Sea The guarantor of that soft power approach is the hard power of Chinese military expansion. China plans to establish a naval and air bases on the Arabian Sea within easy reach of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. That military facility will complement China’s already operational naval base in Djibouti, located at another strategic chokepoint, the entrance to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. All of that is the opposite of what Prime Minister Modi seeks to achieve through SAGAR. It may be that the outcome of the Modi-Trump meeting and subsequent greater US– India cooperation may largely determine peace, stability, economic prosperity and the democratic future of the Indo-Pacific region. Both the stakes and the potential benefits are that high. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

What to expect from US President Donald Trump’s visit to India

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

President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania, daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner leave for Taj Mahal.

Namaste Trump: US Prez concludes Gujarat event, departs for Agra

US President Donald Trump received a shot in the arm after his popularity ratings improved in the election year.&nbsp; 

&nbsp;

As Bernie Sanders won the Nevada caucuses, a new Gallup poll gave Trump a 49 per cent approval rating and a disapproval rating of 48 per cent. 

Watch: Will trade negotiations happen in Trump's India visit?

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It was the first net positive for the president in the poll since the beginning of his presidency in January 2017, according to The Guardian.

&nbsp;

The FiveThirtyEight website average of popularity polls shows Trump’s approval rising since September when impeachment proceedings began.

&nbsp;

Acquitted in his Senate impeachment trial, Trump’s average approval rating now stands at 43.3 per cent, to 52.2&nbsp;per cent disapproving.

&nbsp;

On Sunday, a CBS News poll said 65&nbsp;per cent of Americans think Trump will win re-election in a tight race against the eventual Democratic nominee.

US President Donald Trump received a shot in the arm after his popularity ratings improved in the election year. As Bernie Sanders won the Nevada caucuses, a new Gallup poll gave Trump a 49 per cent approval rating and a disapproval rating of 48 per cent.

US President Donald Trump received a shot in the arm after his popularity ratings improved in the election year. As Bernie Sanders won the Nevada caucuses, a new Gallup poll gave Trump a 49 per cent approval rating and a disapproval rating of 48 per cent. Watch: Will trade negotiations happen in Trump's India visit? It was the first net positive for the president in the poll since the beginning of his presidency in January 2017, according to The Guardian. The FiveThirtyEight website average of popularity polls shows Trump’s approval rising since September when impeachment proceedings began. Acquitted in his Senate impeachment trial, Trump’s average approval rating now stands at 43.3 per cent, to 52.2 per cent disapproving. On Sunday, a CBS News poll said 65 per cent of Americans think Trump will win re-election in a tight race against the eventual Democratic nominee.

Donald Trump’s approval rating boosts chances of winning second term

Here's what experts have to say about the India-US ties and the bonhomie between the US President Donald Trump and&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi:

Puneet Ahluwalia, Political and Business Consultant

Indians have been voting for democratic, Indians are in large number in Florida and Virginia, Indians can play an important role in Ohio. Religious freedom has made a huge dampener on the overall picture of India's image and it depends on PM Narendra M\odi on how he navigates this with President Donald Trump.

If discussions on defence and energy are on the better side, it is a win-win situation for India. The hugs, comforts, and food is not the main course. Let India start focussing at Indo-Asia as a true global power. India should stop flexing muscle verbally and take a stronger position at issues that matters.

Indian mindset of doing business is very different, these two leaders and their mindset will make the difference. The relationship between PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump should be making the best advantage for both the countries. 
 
President Donald Trump is more about creating jobs for Americans, at the same time having deeper relations with India and other nations. You can see the robust growth in the American economy, &nbsp;you can see the jobs coming back and India can take advantage of that. The potential is huge given the leadership in India decides to make with the visit of the US President visit.

G Parthasarathy, Former Indian Diplomat

India will not be dictated to by any country. We will keep the relationships as we want - cooperation is not fostered with preconditions. We will negotiate with the US as we negotiate with anyone else.

QUAD is going well - that will expand, but we will not allow anyone, US, Russia, and China to dictate us. Right now, I'm not worried by Washington Post and New York Times. We will decide what is in our national interest, right now it is in correspondence with the US.

Dr Waheguru Pal Singh Sidhu, Professor at the Center for Global Affairs, New York University

There are a lot of similarities between US President Donald Trump and PM Narendra Modi, the bonhomie, the approach, the minorities.

The US economy is doing the best in decades whereas the Indian economy is just the opposite. The relationship should now start moving beyond the bilateral.&nbsp;

During the last presidential visit of President Barak Obama, we heard something on Indo-pacific, something similar is expected with a bigger growth in wider aspect this time. I'm sure Afghanistan and the Middle East will be a part of the discussion&nbsp;as India looks at itself as a leading nation. This being the defining moment India needs to move up.&nbsp;

Noth sides are very much on building the relationship, all US Presidents coming to India in their first term show the commitment. Containment of China is US position, India's position is managing china, freedom of navigations and freedom of seas is very critical for India.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Here's what experts have to say about the India-US ties and the bonhomie between the US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Puneet Ahluwalia, Political and Business Consultant Indians have been voting for democratic, Indians are in large number in Florida and Virginia, Indians can play an important role in Ohio.

Here's what experts have to say about the India-US ties and the bonhomie between the US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Puneet Ahluwalia, Political and Business Consultant Indians have been voting for democratic, Indians are in large number in Florida and Virginia, Indians can play an important role in Ohio. Religious freedom has made a huge dampener on the overall picture of India's image and it depends on PM Narendra M\odi on how he navigates this with President Donald Trump. If discussions on defence and energy are on the better side, it is a win-win situation for India. The hugs, comforts, and food is not the main course. Let India start focussing at Indo-Asia as a true global power. India should stop flexing muscle verbally and take a stronger position at issues that matters. Indian mindset of doing business is very different, these two leaders and their mindset will make the difference. The relationship between PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump should be making the best advantage for both the countries. President Donald Trump is more about creating jobs for Americans, at the same time having deeper relations with India and other nations. You can see the robust growth in the American economy, you can see the jobs coming back and India can take advantage of that. The potential is huge given the leadership in India decides to make with the visit of the US President visit. G Parthasarathy, Former Indian Diplomat India will not be dictated to by any country. We will keep the relationships as we want - cooperation is not fostered with preconditions. We will negotiate with the US as we negotiate with anyone else. QUAD is going well - that will expand, but we will not allow anyone, US, Russia, and China to dictate us. Right now, I'm not worried by Washington Post and New York Times. We will decide what is in our national interest, right now it is in correspondence with the US. Dr Waheguru Pal Singh Sidhu, Professor at the Center for Global Affairs, New York University There are a lot of similarities between US President Donald Trump and PM Narendra Modi, the bonhomie, the approach, the minorities. The US economy is doing the best in decades whereas the Indian economy is just the opposite. The relationship should now start moving beyond the bilateral. During the last presidential visit of President Barak Obama, we heard something on Indo-pacific, something similar is expected with a bigger growth in wider aspect this time. I'm sure Afghanistan and the Middle East will be a part of the discussion as India looks at itself as a leading nation. This being the defining moment India needs to move up. Noth sides are very much on building the relationship, all US Presidents coming to India in their first term show the commitment. Containment of China is US position, India's position is managing china, freedom of navigations and freedom of seas is very critical for India. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Expert view: US President Donald Trump visit a defining moment for India

As US President Donald Trump arrived in Ahmedabad, several hashtags like #TrumpinIndia and #NamasteyTrump have been trending on Twitter in India on Monday.

#TrumpinIndia was the top trend in the country with over 52K tweets while #NamasteyTrump with over 38K tweets occupied the second spot.

#TrumpIndiaVisit and #IndiaWelcomesTrump also figured among the top five in the list of Twitter trends in the country.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-president-trump-arrives-in-india-on-a-two-day-visit-282308">US President Trump arrives in India&nbsp;on a two-day visit</a>

Meanwhile, after the US President's visit to the Sabarmati Ashram, followed by his arrival in Ahmedabad, hashtags such as #SabarmatiAshram and #MahatmaGandhi also climbed up to clinch the number six and seven spot on the trending list in India on Twitter.

While most of the trending hashtags on Twitter, welcomed the POTUS, #GoBackTrump was also not far behind. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Trump as he arrived at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on his first official visit to India in a bid to strengthen ties between the two countries.

On disembarking the aircraft, Trump was warmly welcomed by Prime Minister Modi with the famous "bear-hug".

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also present at the airport along with other officials to welcome the visiting dignitaries. As he walked the red carpet, the US President was accorded a tri-service guard of honour.

Trump and Modi then proceeded to address the eagerly-waiting audience at the packed Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.Later in the day, Trump will travel to Agra, where he and his wife will visit the historic Taj Mahal.

The US President is scheduled to hold delegation-level talks with Modi on Tuesday in New Delhi.

The visiting dignitary will also meet Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and President Ram Nath Kovind.

As US President Donald Trump arrived in Ahmedabad, several hashtags like #TrumpinIndia and #NamasteyTrump have been trending on Twitter in India on Monday. #TrumpinIndia was the top trend in the country with over 52K tweets while #NamasteyTrump with over 38K tweets occupied the second spot.

As US President Donald Trump arrived in Ahmedabad, several hashtags like #TrumpinIndia and #NamasteyTrump have been trending on Twitter in India on Monday. #TrumpinIndia was the top trend in the country with over 52K tweets while #NamasteyTrump with over 38K tweets occupied the second spot. #TrumpIndiaVisit and #IndiaWelcomesTrump also figured among the top five in the list of Twitter trends in the country. Also read: US President Trump arrives in India on a two-day visit Meanwhile, after the US President's visit to the Sabarmati Ashram, followed by his arrival in Ahmedabad, hashtags such as #SabarmatiAshram and #MahatmaGandhi also climbed up to clinch the number six and seven spot on the trending list in India on Twitter. While most of the trending hashtags on Twitter, welcomed the POTUS, #GoBackTrump was also not far behind. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Trump as he arrived at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on his first official visit to India in a bid to strengthen ties between the two countries. On disembarking the aircraft, Trump was warmly welcomed by Prime Minister Modi with the famous "bear-hug". Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani was also present at the airport along with other officials to welcome the visiting dignitaries. As he walked the red carpet, the US President was accorded a tri-service guard of honour. Trump and Modi then proceeded to address the eagerly-waiting audience at the packed Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad.Later in the day, Trump will travel to Agra, where he and his wife will visit the historic Taj Mahal. The US President is scheduled to hold delegation-level talks with Modi on Tuesday in New Delhi. The visiting dignitary will also meet Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and President Ram Nath Kovind.

From #NamasteyTrump to #GoBackTrump, Twitter reacts to Donald Trump's visit

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said on Sunday that he and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal would have loved to receive US First Lady Melania Trump at a Delhi government school she's scheduled to visit but he respected the concerns raised by US Embassy over it.

Sisodia, who is also Delhi's education minister, said it is a matter of pride for his government that the US first lady will visit a government-run school.

Melania, wife of US President Donald Trump, is scheduled to visit the school on Tuesday to watch "happiness classes" and interact with the students.

"Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and I would have loved to personally receive the First Lady in the Delhi Govt school and brief her about the concept of Happiness Classes and the positive impact that it has had on students, during her visit to the classrooms," Sisodia said in an official statement.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-kejriwal-his-deputy-sisodia-dropped-from-melanias-school-event-282163">CM Kejriwal, his deputy Sisodia dropped from Melania's school event</a>

"However, certain concerns were expressed by US embassy regarding CM and Deputy CM accompanying the first lady during the school visit. We respect the same. We welcome First Lady wholeheartedly and will do our best to facilitate the tour," he added.

According to the original schedule, Kejriwal and Sisodia were to welcome Melania at the school and brief her about the rationale behind the introduction of happiness classes as well as the Delhi government's overall reform initiatives in the education sector, officials in the city had said on Saturday.

Sources in the Delhi government said the US embassy communicated to the city administration on Saturday morning that the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia do not figure in the list of invitees for the event.

"It is a matter of great pride for Delhi Government, Delhi government teachers and students that First Lady Melania Trump is visiting a Delhi Govt school. It is a big appreciation for us that the work of AAP government in the education sector, especially Happiness Classes, is being recognised in the world," Sisodia said.&nbsp;

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said on Sunday that he and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal would have loved to receive US First Lady Melania Trump at a Delhi government school she's scheduled to visit but he respected the concerns raised by US Embassy over it.

Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said on Sunday that he and Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal would have loved to receive US First Lady Melania Trump at a Delhi government school she's scheduled to visit but he respected the concerns raised by US Embassy over it. Sisodia, who is also Delhi's education minister, said it is a matter of pride for his government that the US first lady will visit a government-run school. Melania, wife of US President Donald Trump, is scheduled to visit the school on Tuesday to watch "happiness classes" and interact with the students. "Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and I would have loved to personally receive the First Lady in the Delhi Govt school and brief her about the concept of Happiness Classes and the positive impact that it has had on students, during her visit to the classrooms," Sisodia said in an official statement. Also read: CM Kejriwal, his deputy Sisodia dropped from Melania's school event "However, certain concerns were expressed by US embassy regarding CM and Deputy CM accompanying the first lady during the school visit. We respect the same. We welcome First Lady wholeheartedly and will do our best to facilitate the tour," he added. According to the original schedule, Kejriwal and Sisodia were to welcome Melania at the school and brief her about the rationale behind the introduction of happiness classes as well as the Delhi government's overall reform initiatives in the education sector, officials in the city had said on Saturday. Sources in the Delhi government said the US embassy communicated to the city administration on Saturday morning that the names of Kejriwal and Sisodia do not figure in the list of invitees for the event. "It is a matter of great pride for Delhi Government, Delhi government teachers and students that First Lady Melania Trump is visiting a Delhi Govt school. It is a big appreciation for us that the work of AAP government in the education sector, especially Happiness Classes, is being recognised in the world," Sisodia said.

Sisodia says he, Kejriwal would have loved to receive Melania but respect US Embassy's concerns

US President Donald Trump on Saturday emplaned for his two-day visit to India.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, Trump tweeted out saying, "Departing for India with Melania!" and posted a video along.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Departing for India with Melania! <a href="https://t.co/sZhb3E1AoB">pic.twitter.com/sZhb3E1AoB</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1231598268489973761?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Trump is expected to arrive in Ahmedabad on Monday noon after which he will pay a visit to Sabarmati Ashram and will then head straight to the Motera stadium for the 'Namaste Trump' event.

This will be the US &nbsp;President's maiden visit to India.&nbsp;

Trump's visit is divided into three sections. His trip will start from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state Gujarat and will head to Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/namaste-trump-india-gears-up-for-us-president-donald-trumps-visit-282185">Namaste Trump - India gears up for US President Donald Trump's visit</a>

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Trump's second day of the trip will focus on diplomatic engagements in the national capital.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Trump tweeted out saying "Look so forward to being with my great friends in INDIA!"

Also read: <a href="wionews.com/india-news/with-ornate-private-spa-and-food-testing-lab-itc-hotels-uber-luxurious-suite-to-host-trump-in-delhi-282214">With ornate private spa and food testing lab, ITC hotel's uber luxurious suite to host Trump in Delhi</a>&nbsp;

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India looks forward to welcoming <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>. 
 
It is an honour that he will be with us tomorrow, starting with the historic programme in Ahmedabad! <a href="https://t.co/fAVx9OUu1j">https://t.co/fAVx9OUu1j</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1231479457661116416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi also welcomed the US President and tweeted out saying that "India looks forward to welcoming @POTUS @realDonaldTrump"

"It is an honour that he will be with us tomorrow, starting with the historic programme in Ahmedabad!" his tweet read.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Saturday emplaned for his two-day visit to India. Taking to Twitter, Trump tweeted out saying, "Departing for India with Melania!" and posted a video along.

US President Donald Trump on Saturday emplaned for his two-day visit to India. Taking to Twitter, Trump tweeted out saying, "Departing for India with Melania!" and posted a video along. Departing for India with Melania! pic.twitter.com/sZhb3E1AoB — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 23, 2020 × Trump is expected to arrive in Ahmedabad on Monday noon after which he will pay a visit to Sabarmati Ashram and will then head straight to the Motera stadium for the 'Namaste Trump' event. This will be the US President's maiden visit to India. Trump's visit is divided into three sections. His trip will start from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state Gujarat and will head to Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Also read: Namaste Trump - India gears up for US President Donald Trump's visit × Trump's second day of the trip will focus on diplomatic engagements in the national capital. Earlier in the day, Trump tweeted out saying "Look so forward to being with my great friends in INDIA!" Also read: With ornate private spa and food testing lab, ITC hotel's uber luxurious suite to host Trump in Delhi India looks forward to welcoming @POTUS @realDonaldTrump. It is an honour that he will be with us tomorrow, starting with the historic programme in Ahmedabad! https://t.co/fAVx9OUu1j — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 23, 2020 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi also welcomed the US President and tweeted out saying that "India looks forward to welcoming @POTUS @realDonaldTrump" "It is an honour that he will be with us tomorrow, starting with the historic programme in Ahmedabad!" his tweet read.

Departing for India with Melania! Trump tweets as he emplanes for Ahmedabad

With a food testing laboratory, elaborate security systems, uber-luxurious amenities such as an ornate private drawing room and spa and floor butlers, the mansion-like Grand Presidential Suite of the ITC Maurya here that has played host to a number of heads of states is all set to welcome US President Donald Trump on Monday.

The premium hotel also has an air quality monitoring system and ensures that its guests breathe air that is "as fresh as mountain breeze", according to its website.

The two-bedroom Grand Presidential Suite, known as 'Chanakya', has hosted several heads of states including former US presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton and George W Bush.

It has a private drawing-room, a private terrace, a gym and a dining area along with a private entrance, a parking boulevard, a high-speed elevator, elaborate security systems and a presidential floor butler, according to the hotel's website.

The website describes the 'Chanakya' suite as "a two-bedroom mansion of luxury with silk panelled walls, dark wood flooring and magnificent artwork".&nbsp;

It says the suite boasts of a reception area, a large living room, a study, a peacock-themed 12-seater private dining room, an opulent bathroom with mother of pearl accessories and imperial d?cor and a mini spa and gymnasium.

"With the latest in technology, the suite has 55" high definition TV's and IPOD docking station. Exclusive access to a business courtyard, The Summit Lounge and Boardroom, provide an oasis where affairs of the state can be discussed in complete privacy," it says.

The suite also has the facility of a microbiological laboratory for food testing.

President Trump and the delegation accompanying him will breathe clean air when in the hotel premises as it conforms to the World Health Organisation guidelines on air quality, sources said.

They added that there are air purifiers installed in the hotel and monitors installed on every floor which show the air quality inside the property which is always in the 'good' quality category, that is between 0-50 on the Air Quality Index, even if the air outside is 'toxic'.

According to sources, the floor where the Grand Presidential Suite is located has been cordoned off by security personnel for the last two weeks. The entire hotel will be out of bounds for other guests as all the rooms have been booked for Trump's entourage.

When Barack Obama had stayed at the same suite at the ITC Maurya in 2015, he was served food from the hotel's rooftop European restaurant West View where he had dined with top CEOs from India and the US on January 26. The dinner was hosted at the Grand Presidential Floor.

Obama had also used the private gym at the suite.

For Trump's visit, a three-layer security arrangement will be in place at the five-star property.

An officer said the hotel, located in Diplomatic Enclave in Chanakyapuri, has 438 rooms and its every floor will have police personnel in plainclothes.

US First Lady Melania Trump, the President's daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner will be part of the high-level delegation accompanying him during his visit to India.

The delegation also includes Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross.

The US president will arrive in Ahmedabad on February 24 for a less than 36-hour trip to India. From Ahmedabad, he will travel to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal before arriving at the national capital for the main leg of the visit.

With a food testing laboratory, elaborate security systems, uber-luxurious amenities such as an ornate private drawing room and spa and floor butlers, the mansion-like Grand Presidential Suite of the ITC Maurya here that has played host to a number of heads of states is all set to welcome US President Donald Trump on Monday.

With a food testing laboratory, elaborate security systems, uber-luxurious amenities such as an ornate private drawing room and spa and floor butlers, the mansion-like Grand Presidential Suite of the ITC Maurya here that has played host to a number of heads of states is all set to welcome US President Donald Trump on Monday. The premium hotel also has an air quality monitoring system and ensures that its guests breathe air that is "as fresh as mountain breeze", according to its website. The two-bedroom Grand Presidential Suite, known as 'Chanakya', has hosted several heads of states including former US presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton and George W Bush. It has a private drawing-room, a private terrace, a gym and a dining area along with a private entrance, a parking boulevard, a high-speed elevator, elaborate security systems and a presidential floor butler, according to the hotel's website. The website describes the 'Chanakya' suite as "a two-bedroom mansion of luxury with silk panelled walls, dark wood flooring and magnificent artwork". It says the suite boasts of a reception area, a large living room, a study, a peacock-themed 12-seater private dining room, an opulent bathroom with mother of pearl accessories and imperial d?cor and a mini spa and gymnasium. "With the latest in technology, the suite has 55" high definition TV's and IPOD docking station. Exclusive access to a business courtyard, The Summit Lounge and Boardroom, provide an oasis where affairs of the state can be discussed in complete privacy," it says. The suite also has the facility of a microbiological laboratory for food testing. President Trump and the delegation accompanying him will breathe clean air when in the hotel premises as it conforms to the World Health Organisation guidelines on air quality, sources said. They added that there are air purifiers installed in the hotel and monitors installed on every floor which show the air quality inside the property which is always in the 'good' quality category, that is between 0-50 on the Air Quality Index, even if the air outside is 'toxic'. According to sources, the floor where the Grand Presidential Suite is located has been cordoned off by security personnel for the last two weeks. The entire hotel will be out of bounds for other guests as all the rooms have been booked for Trump's entourage. When Barack Obama had stayed at the same suite at the ITC Maurya in 2015, he was served food from the hotel's rooftop European restaurant West View where he had dined with top CEOs from India and the US on January 26. The dinner was hosted at the Grand Presidential Floor. Obama had also used the private gym at the suite. For Trump's visit, a three-layer security arrangement will be in place at the five-star property. An officer said the hotel, located in Diplomatic Enclave in Chanakyapuri, has 438 rooms and its every floor will have police personnel in plainclothes. US First Lady Melania Trump, the President's daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner will be part of the high-level delegation accompanying him during his visit to India. The delegation also includes Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. The US president will arrive in Ahmedabad on February 24 for a less than 36-hour trip to India. From Ahmedabad, he will travel to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal before arriving at the national capital for the main leg of the visit.

With ornate private spa and food testing lab, ITC hotel's uber luxurious suite to host Trump in Delhi 

US President Donald Trump will visit Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad on Monday before heading towards a cricket stadium where he will address over 1,00,000 people.

Sabarmati Ashram was a key base of Mahatma Gandhi during the freedom struggle. He lived there between 1917 and 1930.

Official sources confirmed to PTI that Trump will spend some time in the Sabarmati Ashram before heading towards the Motera stadium to participate in the 'Namaste Trump' event.

There was confusion over whether Trump will visit Sabarmati Ashram or not. Several world leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visited Sabarmati Ashram in recent years.

The Ashram has been spruced up by local authorities ahead of the US president's visit.

'Namaste Trump' will be similar to the landmark 'Howdy, Modi!' event hosted by the Indian-American community in honour of Prime Minister Modi during his visit to Houston in September 2019, said an official.

Trump, accompanied by wife Melania, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner, will arrive in Ahmedabad around noon on Monday for a little less than 36-hour-long trip to India.

Other members of the US president's delegation include Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien and Energy Secretary Dan Broulliette.

From Ahmedabad, Trump will travel to Agra before arriving at the national capital for the main leg of the visit.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump will visit Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad on Monday before heading towards a cricket stadium where he will address over 1,00,000 people.

US President Donald Trump will visit Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad on Monday before heading towards a cricket stadium where he will address over 1,00,000 people. Sabarmati Ashram was a key base of Mahatma Gandhi during the freedom struggle. He lived there between 1917 and 1930. Official sources confirmed to PTI that Trump will spend some time in the Sabarmati Ashram before heading towards the Motera stadium to participate in the 'Namaste Trump' event. There was confusion over whether Trump will visit Sabarmati Ashram or not. Several world leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visited Sabarmati Ashram in recent years. The Ashram has been spruced up by local authorities ahead of the US president's visit. 'Namaste Trump' will be similar to the landmark 'Howdy, Modi!' event hosted by the Indian-American community in honour of Prime Minister Modi during his visit to Houston in September 2019, said an official. Trump, accompanied by wife Melania, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner, will arrive in Ahmedabad around noon on Monday for a little less than 36-hour-long trip to India. Other members of the US president's delegation include Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien and Energy Secretary Dan Broulliette. From Ahmedabad, Trump will travel to Agra before arriving at the national capital for the main leg of the visit.

US President Donald Trump to visit Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad

US President Donald Trump will have at his disposal a robust communication system that will enable him to work in all situations including an emergency during his visit to India next week.

According to sources, the US Security Department had earlier this month requested clearances for about Rs 300 crore communication equipment from Indian government agencies.

Sources also said that the Customs Department, which comes under the Ministry of Finance along with the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), will ensure that all equipment, which are brought to India for Trump`s two-day visit will be taken back after the trip is over.

According to well-placed sources, whenever the US President travels, he is accompanied by a communication system worth $ 40 million, which is almost impossible to crack and enabling US Security Forces to keep the communication of its President safe.

Apart from the communication system, there are other expensive equipment, which will also be part of the US President`s entourage.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-namaste-trump-event-to-visit-to-agra-banquet-lunch-by-pm-modi-and-more-trumps-jam-packed-india-schedule-281872">From Namaste Trump event to visit to Agra - Trump's jam-packed India schedule</a>

The equipment includes high-end cameras, audio-visual input, and output devices, equipment for satellite communications jammers among others.

Sources claimed that clearances from the concerned departments have already been given and US authorities will have to take them back by next month before the date given by Indian authorities.

"Whenever there is a visit of VVIP, especially Prime Minister or President of nations like Russia, UK, United States, etc, their security department gives us full details of equipment they want to carry also with the cost of each equipment," a top government official explained.

"It is mandatory for any country to provide details of such equipment before the visit begins. After analysing the list, departments mainly customs give clearances to allow these equipments. BCAS works like a nodal agency which deals with multiple Indian agencies to clear all stuff," added the official.

The US agencies are also more vigilant after news reports emerged of a data breach in the system of the agency, which looks after the communication needs of the US President. The US President will be on a two-day visit to India on February 24-25.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump will have at his disposal a robust communication system that will enable him to work in all situations including an emergency during his visit to India next week.

US President Donald Trump will have at his disposal a robust communication system that will enable him to work in all situations including an emergency during his visit to India next week. According to sources, the US Security Department had earlier this month requested clearances for about Rs 300 crore communication equipment from Indian government agencies. Sources also said that the Customs Department, which comes under the Ministry of Finance along with the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), will ensure that all equipment, which are brought to India for Trump`s two-day visit will be taken back after the trip is over. According to well-placed sources, whenever the US President travels, he is accompanied by a communication system worth $ 40 million, which is almost impossible to crack and enabling US Security Forces to keep the communication of its President safe. Apart from the communication system, there are other expensive equipment, which will also be part of the US President`s entourage. Also read: From Namaste Trump event to visit to Agra - Trump's jam-packed India schedule The equipment includes high-end cameras, audio-visual input, and output devices, equipment for satellite communications jammers among others. Sources claimed that clearances from the concerned departments have already been given and US authorities will have to take them back by next month before the date given by Indian authorities. "Whenever there is a visit of VVIP, especially Prime Minister or President of nations like Russia, UK, United States, etc, their security department gives us full details of equipment they want to carry also with the cost of each equipment," a top government official explained. "It is mandatory for any country to provide details of such equipment before the visit begins. After analysing the list, departments mainly customs give clearances to allow these equipments. BCAS works like a nodal agency which deals with multiple Indian agencies to clear all stuff," added the official. The US agencies are also more vigilant after news reports emerged of a data breach in the system of the agency, which looks after the communication needs of the US President. The US President will be on a two-day visit to India on February 24-25.

US communication equipment worth over $40 mn to be at Trump's disposal during India visit

US President Donald Trump will head to India for a two-day visit with a high-level delegation that will include his senior advisors - daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Sources say US National Security Advisor Robert O' Brien, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette and Secretary of the Treasury Steve Mnuchin will also be part of the delegation. However, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer who skipped his meeting with the Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goel last week will not be visiting.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-in-india-hiding-the-poor-and-shantytown-of-ahmedabad-for-us-presidents-visit-281876">Trump in India - Hiding the poor and shantytown of Ahmedabad for US president's visit</a>

Although neither side expects a trade deal to be signed, 5 Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) will be signed during the US president's visit. Nuclear cooperation, homeland security, intellectual property, trade facilitation, space and science technology are likely to be on the agenda.

The government yesterday said that the relationship had to be seen not just in the context of immediate deliverables from this visit. Adding, ''Over the years, the canvas of our relationship has expanded to include several new areas. We enjoy a broad level of support from the executive branch as well as bipartisan support by the Congress.''

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-namaste-trump-event-to-visit-to-agra-banquet-lunch-by-pm-modi-and-more-trumps-jam-packed-india-schedule-281872">From Namaste Trump event to visit to Agra - Trump's jam-packed India schedule</a>

The two sides have expanded their defence ties signing agreements like Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement or COMCASA as well as initiating a joint tri-services HADR exercise named Tiger Triumph as an Annual exercise. The US is India’s largest trading partner in goods and service. We have bought 18 billion dollars worth of defence equipment from the US.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/focus-on-reviewing-bilateral-ties-strengthening-global-partnership-mea-on-trumps-visit-281789">Focus on reviewing bilateral ties, strengthening global partnership - MEA on Trump's visit</a>

Reports say, ahead of the visit, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) has approved a deal to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed Martin MH60 Romeo helicopters - this will boost India's naval capacity.

This is the eighth meeting between the two leaders since 2017 and the fifth this year alone. Donald Trump, like President Obama, is making a standalone visit to India, skipping neighbour Pakistan. 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump will head to India for a two-day visit with a high-level delegation that will include his senior advisors - daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner.

US President Donald Trump will head to India for a two-day visit with a high-level delegation that will include his senior advisors - daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner. Sources say US National Security Advisor Robert O' Brien, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette and Secretary of the Treasury Steve Mnuchin will also be part of the delegation. However, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer who skipped his meeting with the Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goel last week will not be visiting. Also read: Trump in India - Hiding the poor and shantytown of Ahmedabad for US president's visit Although neither side expects a trade deal to be signed, 5 Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) will be signed during the US president's visit. Nuclear cooperation, homeland security, intellectual property, trade facilitation, space and science technology are likely to be on the agenda. The government yesterday said that the relationship had to be seen not just in the context of immediate deliverables from this visit. Adding, ''Over the years, the canvas of our relationship has expanded to include several new areas. We enjoy a broad level of support from the executive branch as well as bipartisan support by the Congress.'' Also read: From Namaste Trump event to visit to Agra - Trump's jam-packed India schedule The two sides have expanded their defence ties signing agreements like Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement or COMCASA as well as initiating a joint tri-services HADR exercise named Tiger Triumph as an Annual exercise. The US is India’s largest trading partner in goods and service. We have bought 18 billion dollars worth of defence equipment from the US. Also read: Focus on reviewing bilateral ties, strengthening global partnership - MEA on Trump's visit Reports say, ahead of the visit, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) has approved a deal to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed Martin MH60 Romeo helicopters - this will boost India's naval capacity. This is the eighth meeting between the two leaders since 2017 and the fifth this year alone. Donald Trump, like President Obama, is making a standalone visit to India, skipping neighbour Pakistan.

Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner and NSA among Trump's high-level delegation to India

‘Namaste, President Trump’ is the renamed version of the mega event that is scheduled to be held for the 45th US President Donald Trump. ‘Kem Chho Trump,’ has been renamed it to suit a more national theme.

‘Namaste, President Trump’ is the renamed version of the mega event that is scheduled to be held for the 45th US President Donald Trump. ‘Kem Chho Trump,’ has been renamed it to suit a more national theme. February 24 will mark Trump's first visit to India. His excursion through the nation will start in Ahemdabad where he will be a part of a grand roadshow. His schedule also involves a visit to the Sabarmati Ashram and an inauguration ceremony of the newly built Motera cricket stadium with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A speech is expected from the POTUS along with Prime Minister Modi to the audience present at the largest cricket stadium in the world. Also Read: India offers US dairy, chicken access in bid for elusive trade deal with Trump A CEO’s roundtable organised between several senior bureaucrats and top executives will also bear witness to Trump's attendance, including significant Indian businessmen such as Reliance Industries Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Mukesh Ambani, Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal, Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran and several more. Respected titans of various industries such as Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra, Larsen and Toubro Chairman AM Naik and Biocon CMD Kiran Mazumdar Shaw are also expected to attend the roundtable meeting with Trump.

From 'Kem Cho' to 'Namaste': Donald Trump's Gujarat event renamed in favour of national theme

US First Lady Melania Trump is likely to visit a Delhi government school and interact with students on February 25, sources said.

US President Donald Trump, accompanied by wife Melania Trump and a high-level delegation, will arrive in Ahmedabad around noon on February 24 for a little less than 36-hour-long trip. From Ahmedabad, he will travel to Agra before arriving at the national capital for the main leg of the visit.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia are likely to give a tour of the school to the US first lady and brief her about the "happiness curriculum" introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, the sources said.

The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. As per the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "Happiness Classes" where they participate in exercises such as storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions. Similarly, for nursery and KG students, the classes are held twice a week.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-trade-deal-with-us-india-says-dont-want-to-set-artificial-deadlines-281734">On trade deal with US, India says 'don't want to set artificial deadlines'</a>

In Ahmedabad, President Trump will address the 'Namaste Trump' event jointly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the newly built Motera cricket stadium.

After the event, the US President and the First Lady will visit Agra, where they will spend about an hour at the Taj Mahal before the sunset. President Trump will then depart for Delhi.

On the morning of February 25, Trump and the First Lady will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

From there, they will go to Rajghat to pay homage at the 'samadhi' of Mahatma Gandhi.

It will be followed by restricted and delegation-level talks between Trump and Modi at Hyderabad House.

Prime Minister Modi will host a lunch for the US president following the talks.

In the afternoon, Trump is expected to attend certain private events at the US Embassy, including a private roundtable with industry representatives.

In the evening, the US president will meet President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

A banquet will be hosted by Kovind and President Trump will depart from India later that evening.&nbsp;

US First Lady Melania Trump is likely to visit a Delhi government school and interact with students on February 25, sources said. US President Donald Trump, accompanied by wife Melania Trump and a high-level delegation, will arrive in Ahmedabad around noon on February 24 for a little less than 36-hour-long trip.

US First Lady Melania Trump is likely to visit a Delhi government school and interact with students on February 25, sources said. US President Donald Trump, accompanied by wife Melania Trump and a high-level delegation, will arrive in Ahmedabad around noon on February 24 for a little less than 36-hour-long trip. From Ahmedabad, he will travel to Agra before arriving at the national capital for the main leg of the visit. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia are likely to give a tour of the school to the US first lady and brief her about the "happiness curriculum" introduced by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, the sources said. The Delhi government introduced the happiness curriculum in July, 2018. As per the curriculum, students studying in classes 1-8 at Delhi government schools spend 45 minutes every day to attend "Happiness Classes" where they participate in exercises such as storytelling, meditation and question and answer sessions. Similarly, for nursery and KG students, the classes are held twice a week. Also read: On trade deal with US, India says 'don't want to set artificial deadlines' In Ahmedabad, President Trump will address the 'Namaste Trump' event jointly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the newly built Motera cricket stadium. After the event, the US President and the First Lady will visit Agra, where they will spend about an hour at the Taj Mahal before the sunset. President Trump will then depart for Delhi. On the morning of February 25, Trump and the First Lady will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. From there, they will go to Rajghat to pay homage at the 'samadhi' of Mahatma Gandhi. It will be followed by restricted and delegation-level talks between Trump and Modi at Hyderabad House. Prime Minister Modi will host a lunch for the US president following the talks. In the afternoon, Trump is expected to attend certain private events at the US Embassy, including a private roundtable with industry representatives. In the evening, the US president will meet President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. A banquet will be hosted by Kovind and President Trump will depart from India later that evening.

Trump visit: US first lady likely to visit Delhi govt school, interact with students

The month of February marks the first visit of US President Donald Trump to India, and to mark this occasion the Ministry of External Affairs came up with creative greetings in the form of multilingual welcome for him and First Lady Melania Trump.

The month of February marks the first visit of US President Donald Trump to India, and to mark this occasion the Ministry of External Affairs came up with creative greetings in the form of multilingual welcome for him and First Lady Melania Trump. The official public diplomacy Twitter account of the MEA, named ‘Indian Diplomacy’, posted online and requested people to tweet a video of themselves saying ‘Welcome to India President Trump’ in their mother tongues. Respondents have also been asked to mention the language in which they would be sending their wishes. Also Read: Trump's 36 hours in India will be 'brief but intense' President @realDonaldTrump & @FLOTUS will be on their first visit to India from 24-25 February 2020 at the invitation of PM @narendramodi. India welcomes President @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS in our uniquely diverse way. #NamasteTrump pic.twitter.com/dxWXUHOYIj — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 19, 2020 × Welcoming President Trump in such an innovative manner, who will be making his maiden visit to India on 24 and 25 February is an initiative which the Indian public has taken on eagerly, with people sending personalised videos in Kashmiri, Garhwali and Kannada, while others sent written messages in Gujarati, Hindi, Tamil, Odia and Telugu. Watch | Indians welcome Donald Trump for two-day visit Diverse greetings sent to US President @realDonaldTrump pic.twitter.com/u2eoSXBGjI — WION (@WIONews) February 20, 2020 × Donald Trump along with his wife Melania will be travelling to New Delhi and Ahemdabad on his two-day visit. A trip to the Sabarmati Ashram and signing a trade deal are also reportedly on the President's itinerary. I feel so proud when My Non Indian friends are sharing below pictures with me asking that “Hey Aditi, this is from your hometown - right?”🥰 yes, this is #MoteraStadium Ahmedabad 🇮🇳India. World's largest #Cricket stadium is ready to host @POTUS #NamasteTrump #AapnuAmdavad 😍 pic.twitter.com/pYtMScTDMp — Aditi Raval (@aditiraval) February 19, 2020 × Trump is also expected to address a public rally at the newly constructed Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad, though the size of the crowd which is to welcome him there is still unclear. “He (Modi) said that we will have millions and millions of people. My only problem is that last night we probably had 40 or 50,000 people… I am not going to feel so good… There will be five to seven million people just from the airport to the new stadium,” Donald Trump told reporters.

Trump's visit to India celebrated in multilingual fashion

US President Donald Trump on Monday commuted the sentence of Rod Blagojevich, the ex-Illinois governor and pardoned Michael Milken, once considered Wall Street’s "junk bond king," along with six others, and commuted the sentences of another three people.

US President Donald Trump on Monday commuted the sentence of Rod Blagojevich, the ex-Illinois governor and pardoned Michael Milken, once considered Wall Street’s "junk bond king," along with six others, and commuted the sentences of another three people. Blagojevich was convicted of trying to peddle Barack Obama's vacated US Senate seat. Blagojevich, a Democrat who appeared on Trump's "Celebrity Apprentice" reality television show while awaiting trial, began serving a 14-year sentence in 2012 after being convicted of wire fraud, extortion and soliciting bribes while governor, reported news agency Reuters. "That was a tremendously powerful, ridiculous sentence," said Trump, a real estate developer who produced and starred in the NBC show before clinching the Republican presidential nomination and winning election to succeed Obama in the White House in 2016. "I'm profoundly grateful to President Trump. It's a profound and everlasting gratitude," Blagojevich told reporters. "He didn't have to do this, he's a Republican president." Blagojevich, 63, was removed from office in 2009 after prosecutors said he tried to sell or trade the US Senate seat Obama vacated after winning the 2008 presidential election. The recipients of clemency had been convicted on charges ranging from defrauding the federal government to theft. Trump's decision was criticized by both Democrats and Republicans, although some Democrats supported the move. (With inputs from Reuters)

Trump commutes ex-Illinois governor Blagojevich's sentence, pardons seven others

US President Donald Trump visit to India will start on February 24 at the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold the Kem Chho Trump (Howdy Trump) event.

Donald Trump to visit Gandhi's Sabarmati Ashram

Nearly 1.25 Lakh people to attend 'Kem Chho Trump' event

Winners and losers from impeachment and acquittal of Donald Trump

The US President Donald Trump delivered his third State of the Union address in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol in Washington. US President Donald Trump rejected a handshake from the House speaker Nancy Pelosi, which was followed by her tearing up the speech immediately after Trump concluded his ''State of the Union'' address.

Donald Trump snubs Nancy Pelosi, refuses to shake hand

The US President Donald Trump delivered his third State of the Union address in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol in Washington. On coronavirus, President Trump said, "We are coordinating with the Chinese government to take on the coronavirus in China." #WION #Trump #DonaldTrump #Coronavirus

Highlights of Donald Trump's State of the Union address

The US President Donald Trump delivered his third State of the Union address in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol in Washington. President Trump said the country is thriving with the years of economic stagnation being over.

Watch: Donald Trump's State of the Union address

The US President Donald Trump delivered his third State of the Union address in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol in Washington. President Trump said, "Three years ago, we launched the great American comeback. Tonight, I stand before you to share the incredible results."

Donald Trump: We launched the Great American comeback

Donald Trump calls Juan Guaido as true President of Venezuela

Watch: US President Trump addresses US House

The US President Donald Trump delivered his third State of the Union address in the House Chamber of the United States Capitol in Washington. On coronavirus, President Trump said, "We are coordinating with the Chinese government to take on the coronavirus in China."

Donald Trump promises protection from coronavirus

President Donald Trump's hopes for a speedy acquittal by the Senate received a boost on Thursday as Democrats suffered a setback in their efforts to introduce new witnesses at his impeachment trial.

President Donald Trump's hopes for a speedy acquittal by the Senate received a boost on Thursday as Democrats suffered a setback in their efforts to introduce new witnesses at his impeachment trial. Democrats had sought to have Trump's former national security advisor John Bolton testify but a key Republican senator said he would vote "no" when the question of calling further witnesses is put to the Senate on Friday. If the witness motion is rejected, Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a key Trump ally, could conceivably call for a vote to acquit the president of the impeachment charges as soon as Friday. A two-thirds majority - or 67 senators - is needed to remove a president from office, and the 53-47 Republican majority in the Senate means Trump is virtually certain to be acquitted. Democrats were particularly eager to hear from Bolton following reports that he claims in an upcoming book to have been personally told by Trump that military aid to Ukraine was tied to Kyiv investigating his Democratic rival Joe Biden. The charge is at the heart of the December 18 impeachment of the 45th US president for abuse of power and obstruction of Congress by the Democratic-majority House of Representatives. Also Read: Trump Impeachment Poll: 47% Want Trump Out Of White House Four Republican votes are needed to allow new witnesses but Republican Senator Lamar Alexander of Tennessee, who had been considered a possible swing vote, issued a statement late Thursday saying there was no need for more evidence. "It was inappropriate for the president to ask a foreign leader to investigate his political opponent and to withhold United States aid to encourage that investigation," Alexander said. "But the Constitution does not give the Senate the power to remove the president from office and ban him from this year's ballot simply for actions that are inappropriate," he said. Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine said she would support the call for witnesses, and Utah Senator Mitt Romney has said he was "very likely" to do so. Another wavering Republican - Lisa Murkowski of Alaska - has said she will announce her decision Friday morning. In the event of a 50-50 tie, US Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, who is presiding over the trial, could be called upon to end the deadlock. If he declines to vote, the motion calling for witnesses would fail. 'Purely partisan impeachment' Chief Democratic prosecutor Adam Schiff, in a last-ditch bid on Thursday to win over Republican senators wary of a drawn-out process, proposed a one-week time frame to secure new witness testimony. "Let's have a reasonable accommodation here," the California lawmaker told the 100 senators sitting as jurors at the historic trial. "We'll take one week, and you'll continue with the business of the Senate." Trump's defence team rejected the Democratic calls for more witnesses. "They said for weeks it was an overwhelming case," said White House deputy counsel Patrick Philbin. "If that's their position, why do they need more witnesses?" White House counsel Pat Cipollone argued for an early acquittal, saying it "would be the best thing for our country. We're dealing with a purely partisan impeachment," Cipollone said, accusing Democrats of using impeachment "as a political weapon." Voters - not the Senate - should decide Trump's fate in the November presidential election, he said. Cipollone and Schiff made their remarks during an occasionally testy Senate session during which Democratic and Republican senators directed questions to the House prosecutors and White House defence team. House impeachment managers expressed outrage over an assertion by one of Trump's lawyers, Harvard professor emeritus Alan Dershowitz, that a president can do almost anything he wants if he believes his re-election was "in the public interest." Schiff said the claim echoed the Watergate case of disgraced president Richard Nixon 45 years ago. "What we have seen in the last couple of days is a descent into constitutional madness," Schiff said. "Almost half a century ago, we had a president who said, 'Well, when the president does it that means it is not illegal.'" "Have we learned nothing in the last half-century?" Schiff asked. "That is the normalization of lawlessness," he said. "I would hope that every American would recognize that it's wrong to seek foreign help in an American election." 'Disgrace' Trump's defence team has argued alternatively that the impeachment is politically driven, that Trump did not tie Ukraine aid to the investigations he sought, that he had reason to seek a probe into his political rival and that he had the legal right to do so as president. The president has repeatedly denied wrongdoing, calling the entire process a politically driven "witch hunt" and a "disgrace." Speaking at a campaign rally on Thursday in Des Moines, Iowa, Trump said, "We're having the best years in the history of our country and I just got impeached." Democrats are to hold their first vote in Iowa on Monday in the process of selecting a candidate to face Trump in November's presidential election.

Senate poised to acquit Donald Trump as witness motion appears doomed

A new section of President Donald Trump's signature wall along the <a href="Migrants gather at U.S.-Mexico border for Christmas party">US-Mexico border</a> has been blown over in strong winds, US officials say. Steel panels from the fence in the town of Calexico, California were knocked down on Wednesday morning.&nbsp;Strong winds have damaged Trump yet again, but this time it is the President's precious border wall that was blown over and not his hairpiece.

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Great photos from a SOUTHERN BORDER WALL Briefing with Secretary of Defense, Mark <a href="https://twitter.com/EsperDoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EsperDoD</a>! <a href="https://t.co/rpGHpdoIa6">pic.twitter.com/rpGHpdoIa6</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1222973224092258304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Steel panels from a <a href="Longest smuggling tunnel discovered under US-Mexico Border; possible connections to Sinaloa cartel">fence bordering</a> the town of Calexico, California were knocked down by gusts of around 48 km/h. According to officials, the concrete used to anchor the 9-meter tall panels in place had not set, causing the collapse of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pentagon-frees-36-bn-for-wall-construction-on-mexican-border-247477">border panelling</a>. The wall was part of this administration's construction project to deter illegal immigration across the 3,145 kilometre US-Mexico border.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/build-that-wall-barriers-back-30-years-after-berlin-wall-259802">Build that wall! Barriers back 30 years after Berlin Wall</a>

The day before the wind took with it the wall, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-trump-revives-border-wall-promise-in-iowa-campaign-speech-and-mocks-his-democrat-coworkers-277639">Donald Trump</a> was conducting a campaign event in New Jersey and boasting of the "record speed" with which the border wall is being constructed.&nbsp;The newly installed panels flew off with the wind a day later in Mexicali, a city on the Mexican side of the border. Thankfully, authorities were able to divert traffic from the nearby street and no property damage or injuries have been reported.

Donald Trump had claimed that the steel slats and concrete constituting the border wall was "virtually impenetrable" when visiting a section of the wall in California last year. The project has progressed, albeit slowly due to the multitudes of legal obstacles faced by the Trump administration. They had claimed to have built around 100 miles of brand new border walls, even though most of it was to repair and replace existing structures.

Trump had declared a government-shutdown last February to funnel taxpayers' money into the border wall and later declared a national emergency on the pretext of lax southern border security. US Appeals Court lifted a legal block earlier this month on $3.6 billion in defence funds which the President used for his border wall

A new section of President Donald Trump's signature wall along the US-Mexico border has been blown over in strong winds, US officials say. Steel panels from the fence in the town of Calexico, California were knocked down on Wednesday morning.

A new section of President Donald Trump's signature wall along the US-Mexico border has been blown over in strong winds, US officials say. Steel panels from the fence in the town of Calexico, California were knocked down on Wednesday morning. Strong winds have damaged Trump yet again, but this time it is the President's precious border wall that was blown over and not his hairpiece. Great photos from a SOUTHERN BORDER WALL Briefing with Secretary of Defense, Mark @EsperDoD! pic.twitter.com/rpGHpdoIa6 — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 30, 2020 × Steel panels from a fence bordering the town of Calexico, California were knocked down by gusts of around 48 km/h. According to officials, the concrete used to anchor the 9-meter tall panels in place had not set, causing the collapse of the border panelling. The wall was part of this administration's construction project to deter illegal immigration across the 3,145 kilometre US-Mexico border. Also Read: Build that wall! Barriers back 30 years after Berlin Wall The day before the wind took with it the wall, Donald Trump was conducting a campaign event in New Jersey and boasting of the "record speed" with which the border wall is being constructed. The newly installed panels flew off with the wind a day later in Mexicali, a city on the Mexican side of the border. Thankfully, authorities were able to divert traffic from the nearby street and no property damage or injuries have been reported. Donald Trump had claimed that the steel slats and concrete constituting the border wall was "virtually impenetrable" when visiting a section of the wall in California last year. The project has progressed, albeit slowly due to the multitudes of legal obstacles faced by the Trump administration. They had claimed to have built around 100 miles of brand new border walls, even though most of it was to repair and replace existing structures. Trump had declared a government-shutdown last February to funnel taxpayers' money into the border wall and later declared a national emergency on the pretext of lax southern border security. US Appeals Court lifted a legal block earlier this month on $3.6 billion in defence funds which the President used for his border wall

Gone with the wind; Trump's 'impenetrable' border wall blown away by strong winds

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