Trump hails Modi at ‘historic’ Texas rally


FE Team | Published: September 23, 2019 15:34:45 | Updated: September 26, 2019 16:32:44


U.S. President Donald Trump and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi participate in the "Howdy Modi" event in Houston, Texas, U.S., September 22, 2019. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst

US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi exchanged warm words of friendship in Texas at a rare mass rally for a foreign leader.

Around 50,000 people gathered for what Mr Trump called a "profoundly historic event" on Sunday in Houston.

The "Howdy, Modi!" event was billed as one of the largest ever receptions of a foreign leader in the US.

Mr Modi, however, may face a frostier reception at the UN General Assembly, reports the BBC.

He is likely to face criticism over tensions in Indian-administered Kashmir, which he stripped of its special status last month, promising to restore the region to its "past glory".

Trade talks and the UN General Assembly are on the Indian prime minister's agenda during his week-long visit to the United States.

A 90-minute show, featuring 400 performers, warmed up the crowd before Mr Modi and Mr Trump shared the stage.

"I'm so thrilled to be here in Texas with one of America's greatest, most devoted and most loyal friends, Prime Minister Modi of India," Mr Trump told the crowd.

In his speech, Mr Modi said India has a "true friend" in the White House, describing Mr Trump as "warm, friendly, accessible, energetic and full of wit".

"From CEO to commander-in-chief, from boardrooms to the Oval Office, from studios to the global stage… he has left a lasting impact everywhere," Mr Modi said.

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