Modi’s Texas triumph

EVERYTHING is bigger in Texas, or so goes the saying. The 50,000 Indian-Americans at Prime Minister Narendra  Modi’s rally, the presence of US President Donald Trump and many prominent American political leaders, all underscored a new high in Indo-US relations. The chemistry the two heads of state shared and their mutual admiration were on display as both addressed their constituents, who were spread out much beyond the venue. Terrorism and immigration are issues which are close to the heart of Modi and Trump, and they make no bones about it. There was enough common ground to build over, and differences were swept aside for the moment. 

The jamboree reflected a new dynamic in international relations, quite suited to the personal style of both the leaders, in which much of the diplomacy is on stage and highly visible. The expected trade agreement is being worked out, and some significant irritants remain. Yet, the relations between India and the US are on a positive footing, and the US stance on Article 370 has given Indian diplomats a boost. Modi triumphantly securing President Trump’s visible support sent out a strong signal to the rest of the world. 

However, as the event packed up and the euphoria came down, some questions arose. It would be charitable to suggest that the Prime Minister was swept by the occasion into what amounted to endorsing President Trump in the forthcoming US elections. Wading into the domestic politics of a host nation can cast a long shadow on future relations. Also, no matter what the personal equation between the two leaders, the fundamentals need to be addressed, and on these, there is still disagreement in both camps. The ‘Howdy, Modi’ event was, nevertheless, a blockbuster that showcased the strength of the Indian community, and highlighted the personal equation between the leaders of the two largest democracies in the world.