Title: PM Modi & Trump have good chemistry, nationalists respect each other: Jaishankar
In a recent interaction, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar revealed that the interactions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump went “very well” due to the shared trait of being nationalists. According to Jaishankar, the chemistry between the two leaders was palpable, and it’s not surprising given their affinity for nationalism.
Jaishankar made these remarks while speaking at an event in New Delhi, where he was sharing his experiences of working with various world leaders, including Trump. He pointed out that Trump doesn’t necessarily have a positive history with many other world leaders, but his relationship with PM Modi is an exception. The EAM highlighted that this difference in dynamic is what makes the interactions between the two leaders stand out.
“I felt the chemistry was good. I think there is a sense of shared values, shared priorities, and that helps… Nationalists kind of respect each other,” Jaishankar said, explaining the reason behind the cordial relationship between Modi and Trump.
Jaishankar’s statement is significant, especially considering Trump’s reputation for being a polarizing figure in international politics. The US President has been known to have a tumultuous relationship with many world leaders, often due to his unconventional approach to diplomacy and his tendency to disregard established norms.
In contrast, PM Modi has been praised for his diplomatic skills and ability to build strong relationships with world leaders. His visits to foreign countries are often marked by warm receptions and productive discussions, which have helped strengthen India’s ties with various nations.
The chemistry between Modi and Trump was evident during their first meeting in 2017, when Trump visited India as the President of the United States. The two leaders shared a warm hug, and their interactions were marked by a sense of camaraderie and shared enthusiasm.
Since then, the two leaders have continued to maintain a strong relationship, with Modi visiting the US in 2020 and Trump visiting India in 2020 as well. The bilateral ties between India and the US have strengthened significantly during their tenure, with cooperation in areas such as trade, defense, and counter-terrorism.
Jaishankar’s statement is also significant in the context of the growing trend of nationalism in various parts of the world. Nationalism has become a polarizing force, with many countries experiencing a surge in nationalist sentiment. While nationalism can be a powerful force for good, it can also lead to isolationism and xenophobia if not balanced with a sense of global citizenship and responsibility.
In the case of Modi and Trump, their shared nationalism seems to be a unifying factor rather than a divisive one. Both leaders have been vocal about their commitment to their respective countries and have taken steps to boost their economies and defend their interests.
However, it’s also important to note that nationalism can be a double-edged sword. If not balanced with a sense of empathy and understanding towards other nations and cultures, it can lead to conflict and instability. As Jaishankar’s statement suggests, the key to a successful relationship between nationalists is to find common ground and shared values that transcend national borders.
In conclusion, Jaishankar’s statement about the chemistry between PM Modi and Trump is significant, as it highlights the importance of shared values and priorities in international relations. The fact that both leaders are nationalists who respect each other’s views is a testament to the power of diplomacy and the importance of building strong relationships with other nations.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of globalization and the rise of nationalism, it’s essential to find a balance between national interests and global responsibilities. The relationship between Modi and Trump serves as a model for how nationalists can work together to achieve common goals, while also respecting each other’s differences and perspectives.
