Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a conversation with America's renowned podcaster Lex Friedman, where he delved into his robust relations with U.S. President Donald Trump. What do you appreciate about Trump as a friend and a leader? To this question, PM Modi recounted a memorable incident. 'We had an event in Houston called 'Howdy Modi.' I and President Trump were present; the entire stadium was packed with people. Such a gathering in one place was a significant event in America. I delivered my speech there, and Trump listened from below. It was his humility that the President of America sat down to listen while I spoke on stage.'
Modi explained post-speech, 'I descended from the stage and suggested to Trump, 'Let's take a full lap around the stadium, greet everyone here, and without a second's delay, the American President joined me through the crowd.' During this, the U.S. security apparatus became utterly restless. But it touched my heart, indicating that this man is incredibly courageous, makes decisions independently, and trusts that if Modi is taking him, then it's safe to follow.'
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I am 'India First' and Trump is 'America First' says PM Modi
Recalling the election campaign, PM Modi stated, 'When a shot was fired at Trump, I saw just one Trump. The Trump holding my hand in the stadium and the same Trump living for America even after a bullet hit. PM Modi said, I am 'India First' and Trump embodies 'America First.' These are appealing traits of Trump.
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PM Modi recounts first meeting with Trump
On the podcast, PM Modi shared another story. 'When I went to the White House for the first time, within the first minute, Trump broke all protocol barriers and took me for a tour around the White House. He had no papers in hand, nor was there any accompanying person. He demonstrated where Abraham Lincoln stayed, why a court is this long, and which presidents signed on this table. He spoke chronologically. It was impressive how deeply he respects institutions and the attachment he has with American history. That was my first encounter's initial experience.'
