INDIRA GANDHI WAS KEPT WAITING BY NIXON, BUT FOR MODI, US PRESIDENT HIMSELF DREW THE CHAIR, CALLED HIM GREAT: Dr CHANDRA

In the latest offering of the JC Show, Dr Jagdeesh Chandra analyses US President Trump’s admiration for Modi, which he says, is evident through his gestures, such as pulling out chairs for him and gifting him books. Their bond is marked by mutual respect, transcending mere diplomacy. Dr Chandra further states that Modi, in return, praises their cooperation and focuses on enhancing India-U.S. relations, which aims to increase trade to $500 billion by 2030. Furthermore, he observes that despite historical differences in U.S.-India relations, Modi receives overwhelming support during his visits, unlike earlier leaders. On trade, Modi diplomatically delays tariff implementations, buying time for further negotiations. The leaders’ differing priorities—Trump focusing on wealth, tariffs, and defence, and Modi emphasizing strategic long-term partnership—reflect their balanced approach to complex geopolitical issues like China. Despite contradictions, both nations understand the importance of cooperation for mutual success. Excerpts... (Part-1)

• Why does Trump have such love for Modi? What does it mean?
  Dr Jagdeesh Chandra: The relationship between Modi and Trump can be seen as a unique global love story. The bond they share is truly extraordinary, and it feels as if Trump has deep admiration and affection for Modi. One of the most notable aspects is that Trump never hesitates to express his love and respect for Modi publicly. He doesn’t filter his words and speaks from the heart, sharing his genuine thoughts. At times, when Trump looks at Modi, he appears to be at a loss for what to do. Sometimes he hugs him, other times he pulls out a chair for him, stands up, or even embraces him. It’s a remarkable love story. For example, when Modi was in Washington, Trump showed immense respect by pulling out a chair for him to sit on, and then stood behind it until Modi finished making notes in a book. Later, Trump gifted Modi a book with a personalized message, calling him “great” on the first page. As they flipped through the book, Trump recalled moments from their visits to India, such as the “Namaste Trump” event in Ahmedabad and the “Howdy Modi” event in the U.S., with the events involving large crowds, highlighting Modi’s widespread support. In Washington, Trump even stated, “We missed you a lot,” and referred to Modi as a great leader, praising their longstanding friendship. Their interactions go beyond just diplomacy. For example, in one of their meetings, Trump couldn’t help but express his admiration for Modi, calling him a better negotiator. This level of admiration raises the question of why Trump has so much love for Modi. It seems to be a mystery, a gift from nature, or even divine fate— a love story that remains an unsolved puzzle.
   
• How did Modi respond to Trump’s tremendous praise for him?
  Modi’s response was equally professional and diplomatic. He emphasized the importance of their ongoing cooperation in various areas. Modi stated, “We will work in all areas of cooperation—whether it is defence, tariffs, H-1B visas, education, or nuclear energy, we will work together to build a strategic partnership for the future.” He further expressed that by 2030, they plan to increase trade between the two countries from 200 billion to 500 billion dollars. Modi also spoke about learning from Trump, acknowledging that Trump’s decisions are often driven by national interests, something he values. He pointed out that when they meet, their combined efforts are more than just the sum of their parts. Together, they will make both America and India great, implementing the vision of a developed India by 2047. He assured that whatever support role America plays, India would welcome it.
   
• What differences do you feel between the U.S. trips of Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi, and Narendra Modi?
  The main difference lies in the responses they received. In the past, the responses were quite poor. For instance, when Indira Gandhi visited, President Johnson wasn’t pleased with her stance on Vietnam, and she faced criticism. The result was that the U.S. halted wheat aid to India. In 1971, when Indira Gandhi went again, President Nixon kept her waiting for 45 minutes, which was an insult. As for Nehru, he wasn’t keen on visiting the U.S. at all. He didn’t want to go there first on an overseas trip, believing that India should not be dependent on America. He wanted help from the U.S. but without directly asking for it. When he returned, the media described his trip as a political failure. Rajiv Gandhi, on the other hand, was more modern and embraced the 21st-century mindset. He visited the U.S., and despite the rain, the U.S. President even came out with an umbrella to see him off—something that shows the contrast in hospitality. But if we compare, there’s a significant gap between those times and now. Today, Narendra Modi received an overwhelming response in the U.S. People gather in massive numbers to hear him speak. Modi is unparalleled in terms of the public and government response in the U.S. compared to earlier leaders.
   
• What was discussed between Modi and Trump regarding tariffs? And what is the issue of reciprocal tariffs? When will Trump’s tariffs be implemented in India?
  The discussion on tariffs wasn’t very intense, as Trump made his position clear, and Modi understood that immediate action wasn’t likely. There wasn’t much debate on the issue, but the significant question was about when Trump’s reciprocal tariffs would be implemented. Modi, in his usual diplomatic style, cleverly deferred the implementation of the tariffs, buying time until September when a new trade agreement was expected. This was seen as Modi disarming Trump and buying time for further negotiation. Modi handled the situation with great tact, avoiding confrontation and giving himself room to manoeuvre.
   
• Trump and Modi discussed more than a dozen important topics, but what were the main areas of focus? What are Modi’s priorities?
  Trump’s main focus is to make America wealthier. He wants to impose tariffs, convert every deal into a win for America, and specifically address the trade imbalance. One of his key priorities was the implementation of tariffs, and now that it’s settled, there’s a sense of calm about the issue. The second priority for Trump is to encourage India to buy oil and weapons from the U.S. so that the negative trade balance can be corrected and America can regain its wealth. For Modi, the strategy is more about understanding the situation over time, engaging in dialogue, and deferring issues as much as possible to avoid conflict. Modi knows that he cannot alter the universal laws on tariffs that Trump has put in place, but he works around them diplomatically. Modi also has to manage India’s interests in terms of weapon purchases and oil deals, especially in the context of balancing relations with Russia and the U.S. Modi’s priority is to maintain a strong relationship with America without causing any major disruptions, focusing on a long-term vision.
   
• How do you explain the contradiction between Trump imposing tariffs on India while seeking Modi’s support on geopolitical issues like China and the IndoPacific?
  This contradiction is well understood and defined. Both India and the U.S. cannot function without each other. While Trump can irritate India with tariffs and other measures, strategically, they share a common enemy—China. Whether it’s through the Quad or BRICS, India plays a crucial role in countering China’s influence. The contradiction exists, but both nations understand the need for mutual cooperation. Modi is well aware that without India, Trump’s leadership on the global stage, especially against China, wouldn’t be as strong. Despite the tariff issue, the long-term partnership and mutual understanding between India and the U.S. are more important for both nations.
   
• Modi mentioned that the copyright for deals in the world belongs to one person, and that person is Trump. What are your thoughts on this?
  This statement is quite accurate, and it shows Modi’s admiration for Trump in a lighthearted way. When asked about deals, Modi humorously acknowledged that Trump holds the copyright for deals today. It was a gesture of respect and recognition for Trump’s business acumen and negotiation skills. It’s a light moment that highlights the personal admiration Modi has for Trump, even in the context of serious diplomacy.
   
• During his press conference, Trump indirectly praised China. Do you think Trump is changing heart, and can Modi trust Trump’s potential moves regarding China?
  Trump is fundamentally driven by business, and he doesn’t adhere to any particular value system. He has openly stated that his approach to friends and foes is pragmatic—he is willing to work with anyone if it benefits his business. China is America’s top trade partner, so it’s no surprise that Trump praised China during Modi’s visit. He understands that business relationships with China are crucial, and he has to navigate those carefully. As for Trump’s intentions, he is likely to shift his approach if China offers him better deals than India can. Modi is well aware of this dynamic. India’s leadership, particularly Modi and the Foreign Ministry is very astute and keeps a close watch on all developments in global diplomacy. Should any situation arise, India will take appropriate steps. Modi is fully aware of Trump’s business-driven approach, and he will continue to balance India’s interests accordingly.

TO BE CONTINUED... ON FEBRURAY 21

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