We did share that there has been great deal of positive development in Jammu and Kahsmir. Recently, we have had two groups of envoys visiting J&K including Kenneth Juster, US Ambassador to India: Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla.
Discussion was centred on positive developments in Jammu and Kashmir. Things were moving in right direction: FS Shringla on mention of J&K during Indo-US talks.
Honour to be Here: Trump | “It has been an honour to be here. You have a very special Prime Minister, he really knows what he is doing. He is a tough man. He has done a fantastic job. We work very closely together,” says US President Donald Trump after interacting with industry leaders in Delhi.
We should be able to conclude a Memorandum of Understanding on intellectual property rights soon, says Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla.
US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi decided to move towards what was referred to as “big deal” in the trade sector: Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla.
“Pakistan figured and was discussed in talks between India and US, and concerns were put on the table,” says Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla
CAA Did Not Come Up: FS | The issue of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) did not come up between the two leaders. However, there was appreciation from both sides that pluralism and diversity are a binding factor: Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla.
Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) Chairman and Managing Director Mukesh Ambani present at a meeting of US President Donal Trump with business leaders in Delhi:
US President Donald J Trump interacts with business leaders in Delhi; Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) Chairman and Managing Director Mukesh Ambani present at the meeting. pic.twitter.com/MiLgOKMO4J
— ANI (@ANI) February 25, 2020
QUICK RECAP | India and the US today finalised defence deals worth USD 3 billion, and signed three MoUs, including one in energy sector, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that the two countries have decided to take Indo-US ties to comprehensive global partnership level.
The unprecedented and historic welcome given to Trump in India will be remembered, said Modi at a joint press meet with Trump and added that the relations between the two countries are not merely confined to governments but are people-driven.
Trump announced that the two countries have finalised defence deals worth USD 3 billion and asserted that their focus was on having a comprehensive trade deal.
Ivanka Picks Indian Designer Anita Dongre Today | US President Donald Trump’s daughter Ivanka today went Indian with an Anita Dongre sherwani made of silk from West Bengal. She wore a white sherwani crafted from handwoven silk from Murshidabad to attend the US president’s ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Dongre, in a statement, said, “We created this style twenty years ago and it’s amazing to see how beautifully relevant it is even today. A powerful, standout silhouette, a sherwani carries the same charisma in absolutely any colour but my personal favourites are the evergreen blue, white and black.”
US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi embrace during a joint news conference after bilateral talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.
Post Happiness Class, Melania Addresses Media | Melania Trump US First lady Melania Trump addresses the media after attending a Happiness class in Sarvodaya Co-Ed Senior Secondary School in Nanakpura, Delhi. She says, “It is great to join you at your beautiful school. This is my first visit to India and I cannot tell you how delightful it is. The President and I are happy to be here.”
First Lady of the US, Melania Trump interacts with the students at Sarvodaya Co-Ed Senior Secondary School in Nanakpura while attending a Happiness Class session.
What is Delhi’s ‘Happiness Curriculum’? The Delhi government designed the Happiness curriculum two years back for students of classes nursery through the eighth standard. It includes developing self-awareness and mindfulness, inculcating skills of critical thinking and inquiry, enabling learners to communicate effectively and helping learners to apply life skills to deal with stressful and conflicting situations around them. Group 1 consists of students in nursery and KG, who have bi-weekly classes (45 minutes each for one session, which is supervised by a teacher) involving mindfulness activities and exercise.
First Lady of the US, Melania Trump meets and interacts with students at Sarvodaya Co-Ed Senior Secondary School.
First Lady of the US, Melania Trump arrives at Sarvodaya Co-Ed Senior Secondary School. She is visiting the school as part of her visit to the city today.
The US First Lady will attend a session of the ‘Happiness Class’ at the Sarvodaya Co-Educational Senior Secondary School in Delhi. “@FLOTUS will attend happiness class in our school today. Great day for our teachers, students and Delhiites. For centuries, India has taught spirituality to the world. Am happy that she will take back the msg of happiness from our school,” Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted. The children were dressed in bright-coloured sarees and traditional attire like ‘ghagra-choli’ to welcome Melania Trump. Some of them were carrying bagpipes and several other musical instruments.
Three Stations on Violet Line Closed for 20 Minutes | The entry and exit of three stations on the Delhi Metro’s Violet Line were closed for nearly 20 minutes today in view of the movement of US President Donald Trump. Later, the DMRC tweeted that the gates have been opened and normal services resumed. Sources said the Delhi Police requested metro to close the gates due to the movement of the US President on the route outside these stations.
Delhi Govt School Students Wait to Greet US First Lady Melania Trump | Meanwhile, excited students dressed in traditional attires waited patiently for US First Lady Melania Trump at a Delhi government school in south Moti Bagh area, even as teachers and staff members scurried around to make the day perfect for the visiting dignitary. Sarvodaya Co-Educational Senior Secondary School was decked up with floral garlands and motifs, welcoming the US First Lady. Floral rangolis were also drawn at multiple places in the school and a student band was waiting to welcome her. Amid massive security, children were seen rehearsing just outside the gate of the institution.
Trump Reaches Hyderabad House for Talks | Prime Minister Narendra Modi leads US President Donald Trump and the First Lady Melania Trump, into the Hyderabad House where the two world leaders are scheduled to hold talks on business.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives US President Donald Trump and the First Lady Melania Trump, at Hyderabad House.
Trump’s Note at Rajghat | US President Donald Trump left a visitor’s note at Rajghat. In the note, President Trump dubbed his visit as “tremendous honor”, while hailing the vision of Mahatma Gandhi.
A visual of US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump planting a tree at Raj Ghat.
US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump write in the visitor’s book at Raj Ghat. Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri is also present there.
US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi during the wreath-laying ceremony at Raj Ghat.
Democrat Bernie Sanders Slams Trump for Selling Weapons to India | As Donald Trump tours India, Democratic presidential front-runner Senator Bernie Sanders slams the US President for selling weapons to India, saying that the US should instead partner with New Delhi to fight climate change to save the planet. Instead of selling USD 3 billion in weapons to enrich Raytheon, Boeing and Lockheed, the United States should be partnering with India to fight climate change, Sanders said in a tweet, the first by a Democratic presidential candidate on Trump’s India visit.
“Trump and Modi meeting is important to US national security and the global economy. Last year I was proud to welcome PM Modi to Texas, where I reaffirmed my commitment to the India-US friendship,” Cruz said in a tweet. Congressman Pete Olson said “great to see” Trump being welcomed by India, one of America’s biggest partners in both trade and diplomacy.
Modi-Trump Meeting Important to US National Security, Global Economy: Lawmakers | Meanwhile, a group of US lawmakers today says that the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump is important to America’s national security interest and global economy. Senator Ted Cruz, who was the runner-up for the Republican presidential nomination in the 2016 election, said that India is a friend, an ally and the largest democracy on Earth.
President Ram Nath Kovind, his wife Savita Kovind and PM Narendra Modi receive US President Donald Trump and the First Lady Melania Trump at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Trump’s Top Quotes During ‘Namaste Trump’ Event:
“India is a country that proudly embraces freedom, liberty, individual rights, the rule of law, and the dignity of every human being.
“Your nation has always been admired around the earth as the place where millions upon millions of Hindus and Muslims, Sikhs and Jains, Buddhists, Christians, and Jews worship side by side in harmony,”
“The story of the Indian nation is a tale of astounding progress, a miracle of democracy, extraordinary diversity, and above all, strong and noble people.
“India gives hope to all of humanity. In just 70 years, India become an economic giant, the largest democracy ever to exist and one of the most amazing asians anywhere in the world,”
Highlights from “Namaste Trump” Event in Ahmedabad’s Motera Cricket Stadium:
Though the much-awaited ‘Namaste Trump’ event was scheduled to start after 1.30 pm, people from across Gujarat besides local residents started arriving at the cricket stadium, touted as the world’s biggest, since 8 am and were eager to see both the leaders. Trump and Modi reached the stadium, which has the capacity to accommodate 1.10 lakh people, the highest for any cricket arena in the world.
Taking to the stage, Trump says, “India embraces freedom, liberty, individual rights and the rule of law, and is admired around the globe as people of different religions worship side by side in harmony,” lauding the country’s accomplishments during his maiden state visit.
US President Donald Trump signs visitors book as first lady Melania Trump watches during their visit to the Taj Mahal, the 17th century monument to love in Agra.
Ahead of First Lady Melania Trump’s visit to Delhi government schools, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal tweeted, calling it a “great day for our teachers, students and Delhiites.”
.@FLOTUS will attend happiness class in our school today. Great day for our teachers, students and Delhiites. For centuries, India has taught spirituality to the world. Am happy that she will take back the msg of happiness from our school
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 25, 2020
Trump, Melania Skip Gujarati ‘Khaman’ | United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump did not eat anything, including Gujarati delicacy ‘Khaman’, which was part of the high tea menu, during their visit to the Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad on Monday afternoon, its trustee said. Trump and the First Lady visited the Ashram in afternoon for about 15 minutes. Apart from ‘Khaman’, a famous Gujarati delicacy, items like broccoli and corn samosa, apple pie, kaju katli and a variety of teas were part of the menu of the high tea for the Trumps.
The deals Trump mentioned will include procurement of 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters by India from the US at a cost of $2.6 billion. Another contract to acquire six AH-64E Apache helicopters for $800 million from the US is also on the table.
Yesterday, talking about defence and strategic ties between the two countries, Trump said the US is looking forward to providing India with some of the best and most feared military equipment on the planet. “We make the greatest weapons ever made: airplanes, missiles, rockets, ships. We make the best. And we’re dealing now with India. But this includes advanced air defence systems and armed and unarmed aerial vehicles,” he said.
After an exchange of agreements at the Hyderabad House Lawns, Donald Trump will meet President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. The US President will also meet business leaders embassy staff.
Trump, PM Modi to Hold Talks at Hyderbad House Today | US President Donald Trump will receive a ceremonial reception as he is scheduled to visit the President’s Residence at 10:00am today. From Rashtrapati Bhawan, Trump will move to Rajghat for wreath-laying at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, following which the US President will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Hyderabad House where the duo is expected to hold business talks in front Lawns.
President Trump, who was received at the Palam airport in Delhi by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and a number of senior officials yesterday, will stay at ITC Maurya hotel. Trump, accompanied by wife Melania, daughter Ivanka, son-in-law Jared Kushner and the top brass of his administration, arrived in Ahmedabad around noon yesterday for a little less than 36-hour-long trip to India.
India, US Likely to Sign 3 Billion Dollar Defence Deal Today |As the business leg of US President Donald Trump’s India visit begins today, anticipations are high on signing a defence deal worth 3 billion dollars. Yesterday, President Trump announced that India and US will firm up defence deals worth 3 billion dollars today and that the US will become India’s premier defence partner. Broad-based talks on multiple issues lined up, but a trade deal remains off the table for now.
US-India Partnership Talks Today | US President Donald Trump, who arrived in India along with First Lady Melania Trump, his daughter Ivanka Trump, son-in-law Jared Kushner and a 12-member delegation yesterday, reached Delhi last night after the brief excursion at the Taj Mahal in Agra. President Trump and PM Narendra Modi will today aim to expand the India-US global partnership during their talks. Before leaving for India, Trump had described Modi as his “friend” and did the same at the ‘Namaste Trump’ event in Ahmedabad earlier in the day.
Haley Hails Trump-Modi Friendship | Prominent Indian-American politician Nikki Haley has said that there is much to be gained from the friendship between Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the US President’s maiden official visit to India. Haley, who was America’s envoy to the UN in the first two years of the Trump administration and the first-ever cabinet-ranking Indian-American in any presidential administration, said that she is proud to see Trump and First Lady Melania travel to India. “The US and India are the two largest democracies in the world and share many values. There is much to be gained by the friendship of Modi and Trump,” the 48-year-old top Republican leader and former South Carolina governor said in a tweet.
Proud to see @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS going to India. The US and India are the two largest democracies in the world and share many values. There is much to be gained by the friendship of @narendramodi and @realDonaldTrump. #USPride #IndiaPride
— Nikki Haley (@NikkiHaley) February 23, 2020
The grandeur and beauty of the Taj Mahal is awe inspiring! ?? ?? pic.twitter.com/jcYwXHxf4c
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) February 24, 2020
Delhi: US President Donald Trump & First Lady Melania Trump arrive at Air Force Station, Palam. He will meet President Ram Nath Kovind & Prime Minister Narendra Modi, tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/J9XiduFnTQ
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020
LIVE – The historic #NamasteTrump event from Ahmedabad. https://t.co/hpRu25NAsN
— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 24, 2020
Police personnel from six districts have been deployed for the security arrangements and nearly 40 companies of Central Armed Police Forces have been pressed into action. Hundreds of high-definition CCTV cameras with night vision have been installed across the Sardar Patel Marg where hotel ITC Maurya is located to monitor the situation round-the-clock, the officials said.
Tight Security in Place | Indian security agencies are also working in close coordination with the US Secret Service, officials said. Apart from anti-drone detachment of NSG, snipers, kite catchers, canine units, and Parakram vans have also been deployed along the routes and areas in and around the hotel where Trump will be staying, they said.
Former prime minister Manmohan Singh and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad have declined the invitation to the Rashtrapati Bhavan for Tuesday’s dinner in honour of the visiting US president.
Delhi Ready to Host Trump | All roads leading to ITC Maurya, the hotel which will host US President Donald Trump, have been fortified with snipers, elite SWAT commandos and sharp shooters on high-rise buildings, officials said today. Trump, who is accompanied by his wife Melania, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner and a host of senior officials of the US administration, is expected to check-in at the hotel today evening. The entry and exit to the hotel is being strictly monitored by security agencies and it has not taken any bookings till Trump is in Delhi.
Agra: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath presents a large portrait of ‘Taj Mahal’ to US President Donald Trump & First Lady Melania Trump, as they depart for Delhi. pic.twitter.com/IzVCbyOlRi
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020
After a guided tour of the Taj Mahal, the Trumps have left the monument in Agra. They will soon leave for New Delhi, where they are scheduled to arrive at 7.30 pm.
People of Uttar Pradesh wholeheartedly welcome Hon. President Mr. @realDonaldTrump & Mrs. @MELANIATRUMP on the land of Ganga, Jamuna & Saraswati.
Your visit to the monument of love @TajMahal will further boost friendship between the people of the two great democracies. pic.twitter.com/we6NOj6EUf
— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) February 24, 2020
Agra: US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the Taj Mahal. pic.twitter.com/BDZVQbHJ2T
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020
Agra: US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the Taj Mahal. pic.twitter.com/jjyrHrC1Yz
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020
US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump arrive at the iconic Taj Mahal.
US President, First Lady to Arrive Shortly | US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump to shortly arrive at the Taj Mahal in Agra. The architectural marvel inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 is made of white Makrana marble and red sandstones, and renowned for its intricate inlay work on the stone surface.
Taj Awaits Trump | The 17th century monument has been refurbished to welcome Trump and his family where they will spend about an hour to catch the sunset from the famed mausoleum built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal who died in 1631.
A giant one near TDI Mall on the route practically covers an entire building showing the two leaders with a message ‘Namaste Trump: World’s Oldest Democracy meets Worlds’ Largest Democracy’.
Uttar Pradesh: US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump and Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner leave for Taj Mahal. pic.twitter.com/das1mAj4QQ
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020
Uttar Pradesh: US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump and Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner witness artists perform at the airport in Agra. pic.twitter.com/H50fFLCimU
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020
Electric Atmosphere at Motera Stadium as people eagerly wait to welcome President @realDonaldTrump #NamasteTrump pic.twitter.com/9VyxlynZWU
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 24, 2020
#WATCH live from Gujarat: US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrive in Ahmedabad. https://t.co/xZJn4qg80b
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020
#WATCH live: US President Donald Trump and PM Narendra Modi speak at ‘Namaste Trump’ event at Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad https://t.co/arJBVLFAJu
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020
Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump visited the he Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad. In pic, they look at a Charkha, a type of Indian spinning wheel.
Taj Mahal Always High on Itinerary of Visiting Heads of State | Taj Mahal, considered one of the seven-wonders-of-the-world, stands on the bank of the Yamuna, and is always high on the itinerary of visiting heads of state. In 2015, the then US President Barack Obama was scheduled to visit the monument during his India visit. It is said he could not do so due to security reasons. In 2000, then President Bill Clinton along with his daughter Chelsea Clinton had paid a visit to the famed monument. The monument which earned the UNESCO World Heritage tag in 1983 has some wonderful specimens of polychrome inlay art both in the interior and exterior on the dados, on cenotaphs and on the marble jhajjhari (jali-screen) around them, according to the ASI.
Trump & Melania to Reach Agra Shortly | US President Donald Trump is scheduled to arrive at the Taj Mahal complex at 5:15 pm and will spend about an hour at the famed 17th century mausoleum. The entry to the Taj Mahal will be closed to visitors in view of high security arrangements, top officials said yesterday.
People at Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad click selfies with Ivanka Trump, daughter of US President Donald Trump.
25,000 Students to Welcome Trumps in Agra | About 25,000 school students will welcome US President Donald Trump along his 13 km long route here, officials said today. A senior UP government official said, “Over 25,000 students from government, as well as private schools, will welcome President Trump here.” He said, besides the government school students, about 500 women associated with self help groups will also welcome Trump in the historic city.
US President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump applaud during the “Namaste Trump” event at Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad.
President Trump, Melania Leave for Agra | US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump leave for Agra, Uttar Pradesh. They will be paying a visit to the Taj Mahal.
US President Donald Trump embraces Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the “Namaste Trump” event at Sardar Patel Gujarat Stadium, in Ahmedabad, India. See other photos of “Namaste Trump” event here.
PM Modi Closes ‘Namaste Trump’ Event | “US is India’s largest export partner. We have the most number of military exercise with US…US is India’s biggest partner in R&D. India’s digital economy will provide good space for US to invest in India. India and US are natural partners. We are together in our fight against terror. We are inspired by a long term vision. Our cooperations will grow and we will fulfill the dreams of our nations. We are glad that we could have you and your family President Trump.”
PM Modi Thanks President Trump | Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes the stage to thank US President Donald Trump for his kind words. He says, “What you have said about India and its history and culture. I thank you for your acknowledgment. President Trump has not just honored Indians in India but also Indians in US. Trust between nations is important. In India, we say trust is where friendship is unshakable. I have seen how relations between India and US have grown. When I had visited US, Trump told me that India has a true friend in the White House. I am happy that US is a partner in India’s progress.”
President Trump Concludes Speech | In the closing speech, US President Donald Trump says, “Today I say to all Indians to take pride in the glories of the past. Unite for the future and let our nations come together for freedom and its values. God bless America, God bless India. We love India very much.”
All over the planet people take great joy in watching Bollywood films, bhangra, and classic films like DDLJ and Sholay. You cheer on great cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli: President Trump
In the field of Science, Trump says, “The US and India are working closely in space exploration. Chandrayaan II is a great program. The US is looking forward to cooperating with you. US and India will be partners in our journey to the stars. What India has done under PM Modi is tremendous and I congratulate PM Modi for this. India has been a wellspring of great wisdom. True strength is not in its books and nature, but in the hearts of the millions of people of this nation.”
First Lady Melania Trump listens as US President Donald Trump speaks at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad:
“US and India are united in the pursuit to fight radical Islam. Recently we launched an offensive against ISIS and killed their leader. Every nation has the right to secure their borders. India and US will fight terror together. To this effect since taking office we have worked with Pakistan to take down terror on the borders. our relation with Pakistan has improved,” says Trump in Motera Stadium.
India, US to Sign $ 3bn Defence Deal: Trump | Amid uncertainity over a signing trade deal, Trump promises to settle a three billion dollar defence deal with India, He says, “I thank you for the contribution that you have made to my beloved country. USA’s economy is booming. I have come to India to expand our relations. PM and I will continue our dialogue to deepen the relation between our countries. Our relations took a new turn when the Indian and US military has a joint exercise – Tiger Triumph. We make the best military hardware and we now deal with India. Tomorrow we will sign a three billion dollar defence deal. We want India to become our premier defence partner.”
India is a creative hub that creates over 2000 movies from Bollywood. India embraces liberty, rule of law and freedom. Even though there are so many communities and languages, you all unite as one great Indian nation: President Donald Trump.
The US President goes on to say, “PM Modi, you are not just the pride of Gujarat, you are living proof that with hard work and devotion, Indians can accomplish anything at all, anything they want. The Prime Minister is a moving story of an incredible rise.”
Trump adds, “India gives hope to humanity. In just 70 years, India has become the largest democracy and has become one of the greatest nations in the world. Under PM Modi, villages in India have access to electricity. Over 300 million more have got internet connection. India will soon become the home to the world’s largest middle class. What is impressive is that India has achieved all this as a democracy and as a tolerant country. India’s achievement is unrivaled.”
PM Modi is a Tough Guy, Says Trump | Heaping praises on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump says, “India now holds a special place in our hearts. PM Modi started as a ‘Chaiwala’, but he won a big election with a landslide. PM Modi is a hardworking man and he has shown that anything is possible. He is friendly, but is tough.”
Travelled 8000 km to Say America Loves India, Says Trump | America loves India, says US President Donald Trump as he begins speaking at the Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad. “The First Lady and I have travelled 8000kms to say that America loves India and we respect India. It is a profound honour to be in Motera in this beautiful stadium. Thank you for your spectacular welcome. Melania and my family will remember this forever,” Trump says.
“One is the land of the free, the other considers the whole world its guest. There is the statue of liberty in US and we have the Statue of Unity. Our rich diversity, the unity within this diversity and vibrancy of diversity is shared between India and US. President Trump has a huge vision. The world knows what he has done for USA. It is a great honour to have Melania Trump in India. You have worked for a Healthy America,” says PM Modi.
PM Modi: The world’s biggest democracy welcomes you, Mr Trump. The arrival of POTUS, FLOTUS, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner gives the Indo-US ties a familial touch and adds warmth to it. I think today we can see history being repeated. Five months ago, I started my US trip with ‘Howdy Modi’ and today my friend President Donald Trump is starting his Indian trip with ‘Namaste Trump’ here in Ahmedabad.
India-US Relations Not Just Partnership, Says PM Modi | PM Modi continues his speech saying, “India-US relations is not just a partnership. It has grown to be much closer. President Trump is here with his family and I thank the people of Gujarat for hosting this event.”
“I was at the Howdy Modi event in Houston and today President Trump is beginning his historic trip to India with a visit to Ahmedabad. I welcome President Trump to the world’s largest democracy though Motera is in Gujarat, the sentiments you see here are of India,” says PM Modi.
PM Modi Opens His Speech | Namaste Trump, says Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he opened his speech at the Motera Stadium, while greeting the US President and the massive crowd. “A new history is being scripted at Motera Stadium,” said PM Modi.
Upon the arrival of President Donald Trump in Ahmedabad’s Motera Stadium, his delegation was thronged by people who took out their cameras for a selfie with Ivanka Trump. The latter obliged.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi enroute Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad, where “Namaste Trump” event will be held shortly.
Melania, Ivanka Trump exude elegance with subtle yet stylish outfits
US President Donald Trump and Melania Trump write in visitor Book “To My Great Friend PM Modi ..Thank You for this Wonderful Visit”.
US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrive at the Sabarmati Ashram, accompanied by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi walks with US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania upon their arrival at the Ahmedabad airport.
US President Donald Trump’s cavalcade enroute Sabarmati Ashram from the Ahmedabad airport, Gujarat
Donning a voguish white pantsuit, First Lady Melania Trump maintained her classic sartorial choice that was designed by American designer Rachel Roy.
Motera set to transform into the loudest stadium in the world for today!
The excitement in the air is palpable as the crowd builds up inside Motera awaiting PM @narendramodi and welcome President @realDonaldTrump & @FLOTUS for #NamasteTrump pic.twitter.com/4Pw3SL2mIj
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) February 24, 2020
Donald Trump India Visit LIVE Updates: US President Donald Trump will arrive in Ahmedabad today for the first leg of his maiden India trip during which he will visit Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram, take part in a roadshow with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and jointly address over one lakh people at Sardar Patel stadium — also called Motera stadium — before heading for Agra to see the iconic Taj Mahal with his wife Melania.
Trump, who is also accompanied by daughter Ivanka, son-in-law Jared Kushner and top brass of his administration, will get a taste of India’s cultural potpourri during his Gujarat itinerary which is high on symbolism, especially after the bonhomie between the two leaders at the ‘Howdy, Modi!’ event in Houston during the Indian prime minister’s visit to the US in September 2019.
#WATCH Gujarat: A group of dancers performing at Motera Stadium in Ahmedabad, ahead of the arrival of US President Donald Trump&First Lady Melania Trump. pic.twitter.com/b28Ts66IDF
— ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020
PM Modi Hugs President Trump | Prime Minister Narendra Modi hugs US President Donald Trump upon his arrival in Ahmedabad for his maiden visit to India:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives at Ahmedabad airport to receive US President Donald Trump.
Ivanka Trump snapped at the Ahmedabad airport.
Meanwhile, BCCI President Sourav Ganguly at the Motera stadium.
अतिथि देवो भव: https://t.co/mpccRkEJCE
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2020
PM Modi to Receive Trump Shortly | Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Ahmedabad at 10.25 am, around one and a half hours before the arrival of Trump and his delegation. PM Modi will receive Trump and US First Lady Melania Trump upon their arrival aboard the Air Force One flight, scheduled to land here at around 11.40 am, officials said
The iconic Taj Mahal is decked up with flowers ahead of US President Donald Trump’s arrival in Agra. The 17th century monument of love built over a period of nearly 20 years by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife after her death in 1631, was refurbished to welcome the American leader and US First Lady Melania Trump.
US President Donald Trump with First Lady Melania Trump response to questions from the media on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, US, before their departure to India
Trumps to Arrive at Taj Mahal at 5:15pm Today | According to Agra DM Prabhu N Singh, Trump is scheduled to arrive at the Taj Mahal complex at 5:15 pm and will spend about an hour at the famed 17th century mausoleum. The 17th century monument to love built over a period of nearly 20 years by Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan in memory of his wife after her death in 1631, is being refurbished to welcome the American leader and US First Lady Melania Trump.
Entry to Taj Mahal Shuts at 11:30am Today | Hours before the visit of US President Donald Trump to Agra today, the entry to the Taj Mahal will be closed to visitors at 11:30am in view of high security arrangements. In the last few days, tourism offices in Agra, the staffs have been flooded with phone calls from people from all parts of the country, asking if the monument will be open on Monday or not.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a friend of mine. I had committed to this trip long time back. I will be addressing a big rally,” Trump said at the White House.
The US president, who is scheduled to arrive at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International airport at around 11.40am today, will participate along with Modi in roadshows on his way from the airport to Sabarmti Ashram and from there to the newly-built Motera cricket stadium, where over one lakh people are expected to be present for the ‘Namaste Trump’ event.
Dance groups and singers from different parts of the country will be performing on stages that are dotting the 22-km route of the ‘India roadshow’ in the city that has was been spruced up for Trump’s visit.
Huge billboards of the two leaders and replicas of historic places in Gujarat, Modi’s native state, have also been placed along the roads where people will greet the two leaders.
Over 10,000 police personnel, besides officials of the United States Secret Service, and personnel of the National Security Guards (NSG) and the Special Protection Group (SPG) have been deployed for the high profile visit.
“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,” tweeted Modi.
Trump, who is the seventh US president to visit the country, too took to Twitter saying he was looking forward to being with his “great friends” in India as he retweeted a video in which his face was superimposed on the hit Indian movie-character Bahubali, showing him as a great saviour.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will accompany Trump to the Sabarmati Ashram, which was home to Mahatma Gandhi from 1917-1930 during India’s freedom struggle.
Several world leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe had visited Sabarmati Ashram in recent years.
Ashram secretary Amrut Modi said that Trump will spend 15 minutes at the place.
“Trump will visit the ‘Hriday Kunj’. If he wishes, he will spin a charkha. We will also gift him a coffee-table book, and a book containing 150 quotations of Gandhi,” the Ashram official said.
Hriday Kunj is a room on the Ashram premises where Mahatma Gandhi and his wife Kasturba Gandhi had lived for 12 years between 1918 and 1930.
The official said the US President would be briefed about Gandhiji and the importance of charkha (spinning wheel) as a symbol of self-reliance.
A cultural extravaganza will be organised at the Motera stadium during the ‘Namaste Trump’ event, where Trump and Modi will address the gathering.
Bollywood singers Kailash Kher and Parthiv Gohil, and Gujarati folk singers like Kirtidan Gadhvi, Gita Rabari, Purushottam Upadhyay and Sairam Dave will perform at the stadium, officials of the Gujarat Cricket Association said.
Students of various government and private schools have also been roped in to perform at cultural events and they have been practising for days, an official said.
Billboard with slogans hailing Indo-US relations like ‘the world’s oldest democracy meets the world’s largest democracy’ and ‘stronger friendship for a brighter future’, and pictures of Trump and Modi walking together, shaking hands, and waving at the crowd during the ‘Howdy Modi’ event in the US last year have come up at prominent places.
The city’s civic body is leaving no stone unturned to make the roadshow a memorable experience for the dignitaries as well as the people of Gujarat.
“Hello Ahmedabad, Come, be a part of the 22 km long mega India Road Show. Let’s showcase the best of Indian culture and diversity to the world. #Namaste Trump,” Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Vijay Nehra said in a tweet on Sunday
A cut-out of the 12th century ‘Kirti Toran’ (a pair of columns supporting an arch), from Modi’s hometown Vadnagar in Gujarat’s Mehsana district, has also been put up outside the Ahmedabad airport to welcome Trump.
As the city was buzzing with last-minute preparations, there were some minor hiccups.
Two makeshift VVIP entry gates erected outside the newly-built cricket stadium in Motera collapsed due to gusty winds on Sunday morning, but no one was injured in both the incidents, officials said.
Trump and his entourage will fly to Agra, which is all decked up for the visit with massive billboards and American and Indian flags displayed on all major roads.
Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will welcome the US president on his arrival at the Kheria airport at 4.30pm on Monday where a group of about 350 artistes will be performing.
Huge security has been deployed across the city, especially along the nearly 13-km route to be taken by Trump’s convoy from the airport to the Amarvilas hotel, and in and around the Taj.
According to the official schedule, the US president will arrive with his family at the Taj Mahal complex at 5.15pm on Monday and spend about an hour at the famed 17th century mausoleum, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
He will then leave for Delhi for the main leg of the visit during which restricted and delegation-level talks between Trump and Modi will be held at Hyderabad House on Tuesday.
The eagerly awaited tour of India is expected to significantly ramp up bilateral defence and strategic ties but unlikely to produce tangible outcome in resolving thorny issues like trade tariffs.