PM Modi & Trump have good chemistry, nationalists respect each other: Jaishankar
The interactions between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump are a perfect example of how leaders from different countries can build a strong rapport with each other. According to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the chemistry between the two leaders was evident in their meetings, and it all boils down to their shared nationalist ideology.
In an interview, Jaishankar claimed that the interactions between Modi and Trump went “very well” because both leaders are nationalists and “nationalists kind of respect each other”. He further added that Trump doesn’t necessarily have a positive history with many other world leaders, which isn’t the case with PM Modi.
Trump’s tumultuous relationships with other world leaders, including NATO allies and fellow G7 members, are well-documented. However, his rapport with Modi has been a notable exception. The two leaders have met multiple times, including at the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan, and the Howdy Modi event in Houston, Texas.
Jaishankar’s comments on the chemistry between Modi and Trump are significant because they highlight the power of shared ideological beliefs in building relationships between leaders. Nationalism, in particular, is a complex and often contentious concept, but in the case of Modi and Trump, it seems to have served as a common thread that has brought them together.
One of the key areas where Modi and Trump have found common ground is their focus on economic nationalism. Both leaders have taken steps to promote their respective economies and protect their industries from foreign competition. Modi’s “Make in India” initiative, for example, aims to increase domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports, while Trump’s “America First” policy seeks to protect American industries and create jobs.
Their shared economic nationalist agenda has likely contributed to the strong rapport between the two leaders. Despite their differences on various issues, including trade policies and climate change, Modi and Trump have found ways to work together and find common ground.
Jaishankar’s comments also highlight the importance of personal chemistry in international diplomacy. While policy differences and ideological disagreements can sometimes create tension between leaders, a strong personal rapport can help to build trust and foster cooperation.
In the case of Modi and Trump, their meetings have been marked by warmth and camaraderie. During their meetings, they have often been seen laughing and joking together, which has helped to create a positive and relaxed atmosphere.
The chemistry between Modi and Trump has also been evident in their public statements. After their meetings, both leaders have often praised each other and expressed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
In his interview, Jaishankar noted that he felt the chemistry between Modi and Trump was good, and that their shared nationalist ideology had played a significant role in building their rapport. He further added that the interactions between the two leaders had been “very well” and that they had found common ground on several issues.
The success of the Modi-Trump relationship has significant implications for India-US relations. The two countries have been working together on several key issues, including trade, defense, and climate change. Their strong personal rapport has helped to build trust and foster cooperation, which has been beneficial for both countries.
In conclusion, the comments by EAM S Jaishankar highlight the importance of shared ideological beliefs in building relationships between leaders. The chemistry between PM Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump is a perfect example of how nationalists can come together and build a strong rapport. Despite their differences on various issues, Modi and Trump have found common ground and continue to work together to strengthen bilateral ties.
