Trump Welcomed by '100,000 Crowd' in India... Shows Bromance with Modi

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] As U.S. President Donald Trump visited India on the 24th, he and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi exchanged high praise, showcasing a bromance. President Trump visited Modi's hometown before heading to the capital, New Delhi, and Modi welcomed President Trump enthusiastically with a crowd of 100,000 people.

According to the Associated Press, President Trump visited the Sardar Patel Stadium in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, western India, the world's largest cricket stadium. 100,000 Indians filled the stadium to welcome President Trump, wearing hats bearing the event title "Namaste Trump."

Prime Minister Modi first took the podium and said, "The United States and India share many things such as values, ideals, and innovation," adding, "I hope the friendship between the United States and India lasts forever." He then introduced President Trump as "my friend." President Trump greeted with "Namaste India" and said, "I flew 8,000 miles to deliver the message that America loves and respects India." He also praised Modi, saying, "He is a great leader, and everyone likes him. He is very strong."

Gujarat is Prime Minister Modi's hometown. Modi served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014, growing politically during that time. President Trump's visit to Ahmedabad, his first visit to India since taking office, was a significant political endorsement for Modi.

Prime Minister Modi also treated President Trump with great hospitality. He personally went to the airport to welcome President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, and tens of thousands of Indian residents lined the route from the airport to warmly greet them.

The two leaders are expected to promote cooperation in areas such as military, copyright, and trade facilitation. Regarding his visit to India, President Trump expressed his intention to strengthen military cooperation, stating, "We will make arms deals worth more than $3 billion." He also mentioned that they are pursuing a significant trade agreement with India and will discuss expanding economic cooperation. Furthermore, he emphasized cooperation with India in aerospace and counterterrorism.