Welcoming US President Donald Trump at Sardar Patel stadium in Motera for the 'Namaste Trump' event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the India-US relations have surged to a new high over the recent times. "India-US relations are no longer just another partnership. It is a far greater and closer relationship. One is 'land of the free' the other believes the world is one family. One feels proud of the Statue of Liberty' the other feels proud of Statue of Unity," Modi said.
"You [Trump] are heartily welcome in the largest democracy of the world. This is Gujarat, but the entire country is enthusiastic in welcoming you. I think, today, we can see history being repeated. Five months back I started my US trip with 'Howdy Modi' and today my friend President Donald Trump is starting his Indian trip with 'Namaste Trump' here in Ahmedabad," he said.
"The meaning of the name of this event 'Namaste' is very deep. This is a word from the oldest languages of the world—Sanskrit. It means that we pay respect to not only to the person but also to the divinity inside him," he said.
US President Donald Trump said it was a great honour to be in India. "This is a great honour. [Modi is] An exceptional leader, a man who works night and day. A man I am proud to call a true friend. Thank you for the spectacular welcome." He also had some hearty praise in store for PM Modi. "[Modi] You are not just the pride of Gujarat, you are living proof that with hard work and devotion, Indians can accomplish anything at all, anything they want. The prime minister is a moving story of an incredible rise," he said, adding that India and US have a natural and enduring friendship.
"Extreme poverty in your country will be eliminated in next 10 years. Modi started off as a humble 'chaiwala'; he worked at cafeteria and is shining example that Indians can achieve anything. There is difference between nation that rises by coercion and one that rises by setting people free—that is India" he said.
Trump referenced Bollywood in his peech. "India produces 2000 films yearly, including great romantic movies like DDLJ."
"The US will become India's premier defence partner. India and the US are committed to defend our people from radical islamic terrorism," he added.
The story will be updated
