Big Concerns Addressed: Shashi Tharoor on PM Modi-Donald Trump Meet in US
Bengaluru: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor expressed satisfaction over the recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump, stating that major concerns appear to have been addressed.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the Global Investors’ Meet (GIM) in Bengaluru, Mr. Tharoor particularly highlighted the US commitment to selling India F-35 stealth aircraft, calling it a “very valued” deal.
“On the defence front, the commitment to sell us F-35 stealth aircraft is very valued. That’s the state-of-the-art aircraft, and with the addition of the F-35 alongside the Rafale jets, the Indian Air Force would be in a strong position,” he said.
Praise for PM Modi’s Negotiation Skills
Referring to former President Trump’s remarks, Mr. Tharoor noted that Trump’s praise of PM Modi’s negotiation skills was significant. “Donald Trump calling Prime Minister Modi a better negotiator than himself is astonishing. Mr. Trump takes great pride in his negotiation skills, often referring to ‘The Art of the Deal.’ Yet, he admitted that Modi is a better negotiator than him. That is high praise from a leader who is not known for offering compliments easily,” Tharoor remarked.
Awaiting Further Details
Mr. Tharoor also mentioned that he was eager to receive more details about the meeting once PM Modi and his delegation return. “From what we have heard so far, I am very encouraged. I look forward to further discussions when the Prime Minister’s team briefs the Standing Committee on External Affairs. However, one key issue still requiring an assurance is the way Indian migrants are being sent back from the US,” he added.
The Modi-Trump meeting has been widely covered, with international media outlets also recognizing the Indian Prime Minister’s diplomatic approach. CNN described Modi’s negotiations as a “masterclass for world leaders.”
The visit, which was part of a two-day official trip to the US, is expected to further strengthen Indo-US relations in areas such as trade, defense, and strategic cooperation.