New Delhi has pushed back against claims made by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, who stated that India had specifically asked the United States to prevent journalists from asking questions during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meeting with then-US President Donald Trump.
Government sources, quoted by News18, asserted that such discussions are considered "normal practice" in the lead-up to any VVIP (Very Very Important Person) visit. "Discussions regarding arrangements for public appearances of leaders are normal practice ahead of any VVIP visit. In this regard, the Indian side communicated its standard practice for such visits," the sources clarified.
Ambassador Gor's Account
Speaking at a recent Economic Times World Leaders Forum, Ambassador Gor recounted the events surrounding the interaction between Modi and Trump. He detailed a conversation with President Trump prior to their meeting on June 17 in Evian-les-Bains, on the sidelines of a G7 summit.
According to Gor, Trump inquired about India's agenda for the meeting and any specific requests. The Ambassador stated that the Ministry of External Affairs had one request: to allow media presence but to avoid a full press conference. "I told the president, I said, the Indians prefer no questions. He said, sure, no problem," Gor narrated.
The meeting commenced with approximately 50 cameras and numerous journalists present as both leaders delivered their opening remarks. However, Gor stated that President Trump then turned to the reporters and spontaneously invited questions, which, according to the ambassador, "opened everything up." This impromptu session evolved into what Gor described as a "45-minute press conference" where "everything was on the table."
Context of the Meeting
The meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Trump in June took place shortly after a significant incident where three Indian mariners were killed in a US Navy attack on a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. The safety of Indian seafarers operating in conflict zones was reportedly among the crucial issues raised by Prime Minister Modi during the interaction.