President Trump, in his first official visit to India on Monday, was greeted by overflowing crowds and a massive stadium rally where he announced a $3 billion deal that will send state-of-the-art military helicopters to the country.
The “Namaste Trump” rally was a sequel to the “Howdy, Modi” event Trump held with prime minister Narendra Modi in Houston last September.
Trump’s motorcade passed along seemingly endless crowds in Ahmedabad with many cheering and waving American flags on the way to the 110,000 capacity Sardar Patel Stadium where the rally is expected to be conducted.
Large billboards were spread throughout the route showing Trump alongside Modi and his wife Melania.
Near the entrance to the stadium, camels on either side of the road were seen greeting him, which the announcers described as a “camelcade.” The largest cricket stadium in the world appeared to be full, with banners displaying Trump’s name throughout.
The world’s biggest democracy welcomes you, Mr. Trump.
We may be in Gujarat, but entire India is excited to invite you.
The arrival of POTUS, FLOTUS, Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner gives the Indo-US ties a familial touch and adds warmth to it: PM Modi #NamasteTrump pic.twitter.com/0yFUKbHQqx
— BJP (@BJP4India) February 24, 2020
Before Modi and Trump came out on stage, the song “Macho Man” by the Village People was heard playing in the stadium. When the music stopped, they arrived on stage, and both leaders held the arms of each other into the air.
Shortly after each country’s national anthem played, Modi began speaking to the crowd about shared values and ideas as Trump sat in his chair beside Melania. All three were located in a large bulletproof container that took up most of the stage.
Electric Atmosphere at Motera Stadium as people eagerly wait to welcome President @realDonaldTrump #NamasteTrump pic.twitter.com/9VyxlynZWU
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 24, 2020
When Modi handed the podium to Trump, the president thanked those in attendance for the welcome he received, adding that he and Melania would remember the hospitality given.
“America will always be faithful and loyal friends to the India people,” Trump said.
Trump also touted the peacefulness of India in the past. Later he announced that he will sell 3 billion dollars worth of state of art helicopters and other equipment to the country.
“I am pleased to announce that tomorrow our representatives will sign deals to sell over three billion dollars in the absolute finest state of the art military helicopters and other equipment to the Indian armed forces,” Trump said.
He also announced that his administration is working with Pakistan to crackdown on terrorists operating in the country. At the same time, he exclaimed his relationship with Pakistan is a “very good one.”
Trump is expected to visit the iconic Taj Mahal later in the day.
