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Trump Announces Military Deal With India, Expresses Optimism For Trade Pact

Steve Heman

   AHMEDABAD, INDIA - President Donald Trump said Monday the United States
   will sign an agreement to sell $3 billion worth of U.S. helicopters and
   other equipment to India's military.

   The announcement came as Trump spoke at a welcome rally in the city of
   Ahmedabad, where a crowd of more than 100,000 people had gathered to
   hear from him and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

   Ahead of the visit, Trump had said a new major trade deal between the
   two countries would not be part of this trip. But in his address he
   promised the two countries will be making "among the biggest ever trade
   deals," and said he is optimistic that he and Modi can reach "a good,
   even great deal" for both sides.

   The president began his address by uttering the Indian greeting of
   "Namaste," and said that India "will always hold a special place in our
   hearts."

   He and Modi praised the the U.S.-India relationship, as well each
   other.

   "America loves India. America respects India. And America will always
   be faithful and loyal friends to the Indian people," Trump said.

   He celebrated India as a successful democracy, and said both countries
   are committed to working together to fight terrorism.

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