Donald Trump rejects PM Modi's invite to attend Republic Day event, reports; is this over India's deal with Russia and Iran?
US President Donald Trump has rejected Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to be the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations on January 26, claims reports.
As per reports, it is said that Trump's decline comes over the latter’s S-400 missile defence system deal with Russia and oil imports from Iran despite the United States sanctions.
Earlier, in August White House press secretary Sarah Sanders had confirmed Mr Trump received an invitation to visit India. "I know that the invitation has been extended, but I do not believe that a final decision has been made," Ms Sanders told reporters then.
Donald Trump’s decision was conveyed by the US authorities to NSA Ajit Doval, sources said. Reportedly another reason would be the Trump’s domestic commitments — State of the Union (SOTU) address around that time.
However, the foreign ministry has not given a statement. Only the White House can talk on the President's travel plans, the American embassy in Delhi said.
As per media reports, US officials have been indicating that Mr Trump would not fly to India in Republic Day event on 26 January as the State of the Union address is scheduled in the winter month.
First published: 28 October 2018, 10:39 IST
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