Wed Sep 18 07:13:10 UTC 2024: ## Trump Calls India a “Big Abuser” of Trade Deal, Plans Modi Meeting Next Week

**Flint, Michigan –** Former U.S. President Donald Trump, currently campaigning for the upcoming presidential election, has accused India of being a “very big abuser” of the U.S.-India trade relationship. Speaking at a rally in Flint, Michigan, Trump, the Republican candidate, did not elaborate on his claims but revealed that he will meet with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi next week. The details of the meeting remain undisclosed.

The announcement comes just days before U.S. President Joe Biden hosts a summit with leaders from Australia, India, and Japan on September 21st in Delaware. Analysts perceive the meeting as a testament to Washington’s increasing view of New Delhi as a counterweight to China’s growing influence in Asia.

Despite his criticism, Trump referred to Modi as “fantastic”, highlighting the cordial relationship they shared during his presidency. This sentiment was evident during Trump’s 2020 visit to India, where Modi organized a massive rally, including the inauguration of the world’s largest cricket stadium, to welcome him. The event featured attendees wearing “Namaste Trump” hats.

This trend of positive interaction between the two leaders continued during Modi’s 2019 visit to the U.S. when they both showered each other with praise at a “Howdy, Modi!” rally in Texas, attended by over 50,000 people.

While Modi has also enjoyed positive relations with Democratic presidents like Barack Obama and Biden, the White House extended a grand welcome to the Indian Prime Minister last year, celebrating deals focused on defense and commerce.

Trump’s upcoming meeting with Modi comes amidst a close election race between him and the Democratic vice-presidential candidate, Kamala Harris, who is of Indian descent.

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