Howdy Modi vs Namaste Trump  

More than a diplomatic visit, ‘Namaste Trump’ emerges to be a return gift for ‘Howdy Modi’ event.

Like 'Howdy Modi', 'Namaste Trump' intends to amaze the world with recognition that India and PM Modi receive by President Trump.

President Trump’s Gujarat visit has a direct connection with the diaspora audience in an election season.

Like Howdy Modi, Namaste Trump event has a clear political undertone.

PM Modi was welcomed by a crowd of 50,000 people in Texas,while Trump was wished Namaste by 1,25000 Indians in Motera.

The 'Howdy Modi' was organised by a NGO and the expenditure was not disclosed .

'Namaste Trump' is organised by Gujarat government and around 100 crore rupees are being spent for the extravaganza.

More than cultural and political diplomacy, both events showcase PM Modi and Trump's friendship.

Against the backdrop of tense talks over trade, Donald Trump called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a "tough negotiator".

"We are working on a very comprehensive trade deal between India and the United States......one that will benefit both nations. India is a very large market for US exports.

US is India's largest market in terms of export...so a strong US is great for India," President Trump said.

"We will soon have a big trade deal, which is currently being negotiated. Prime Minister Modi is a very tough negotiator."

President Donald Trump vowed to boost trade ties between the United States and India.

He said the US was prepared to supply India with defence equipment ranging from drones to helicopters and missile systems.

President Trump said he looked forward to expanding space cooperation between the two nations.

Trump said that PM Modi was "a great leader. Everybody loves him, but he's very tough."

Hopes that the world's two largest democracies could negotiate a "confidence-building" deal in time for Trump's visit faded in recent days.

Differences over agriculture, medical devices, digital trade and proposed new tariffs festered are evident.

The two sides have been arguing over US demands for access to India's poultry and dairy markets.

Despite Trump's gala visit to India, these bottlenecks seem to stay unresolved.

Sans diplomatic benefits to India, the grand Namaste just seems to be a return courtesy for 'Howdy Modi'.

The Indian government has sought restoration of trade concessions that Trump withdrew in 2019 and greater access to US.