NEW DELHI: Ahead of the crucial Presidential elections this November, US President Donald Trump will visit India from February 24 to 25.
The United States will be looking at wrapping up a trade deal, which could help reduce its trade deficit with India as well as increase sales of defence equipment including military and naval helicopters to India. Trump will also visit Gujarat.
“President @realDonaldTrump & @FLOTUS will travel to India from February 24-25 to visit Prime Minister @narendramodi! The trip will further strengthen the U.S.-India strategic partnership & highlight the strong & enduring bonds between the American & Indian people,” the White House tweeted on Tuesday.
Confirming the development, the Ministry of External Affairs said that Trump and First Lady Melania will attend official engagements in New Delhi and Ahmedabad. According to officials, the two leaders may announce a trade deal during the visit.
However, there is no clarity if the Kashmir situation will feature in the dialogue between Modi and Trump. Officials involved in the trade negotiations said India will protect its price caps on medical implants and may not welcome American dairy products derived from mammals that are fed non-veg food.
“We have pointed out to the Americans there are cultural issues and Indians won’t accept milk products from cows that are fed non-vegetarian feed,” officials said.
The animal feed used in the US dairy industry has high protein blood meal from cattle. Sources said India will relent on opening up hitherto protected sectors like wines and whiskey.