'Very encouraged...': Tharoor on Modi-Trump meeting
What's the story
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has welcomed the recent meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and United States President Donald Trump.
The talks, which were held during PM Modi's two-day visit to the US, touched upon several key issues such as trade, defense, and immigration.
Tharoor welcomed the decision to negotiate trade tariffs by autumn this year as it prevents hasty decisions affecting Indian exports.
He also said he was "very encouraged" looking at the main issues.
Defense deal
Tharoor praises US commitment to sell F-35 aircraft
Tharoor also praised the US's commitment to sell F-35 stealth aircraft to India, calling it "very valued."
He thinks this state-of-the-art aircraft will greatly boost the capabilities of the Indian Air Force along with the existing Rafale jets.
On immigration, while he backed PM Modi's stand on accepting deported Indian nationals, Tharoor was worried about their treatment during deportation.
Immigration issues
Tharoor expresses concerns over treatment of deported Indians
Tharoor cited reports of mistreatment and hoped PM Modi privately assure to not let such incidents happen in the future.
"These are misled youths who had been encouraged or induced to migrate illegally and they should be taken back. They are Indian citizens and they belong in the country and we take them back," he said.
Diplomatic praise
Tharoor acknowledges Trump's praise for Modi
The meeting also discussed strategic partnerships and extradition issues, including Tahawwur Rana's case in connection with the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
Tharoor also noted Trump's praise for PM Modi as a negotiator, calling it a huge compliment from a leader who prides himself on his negotiation skills.
"Donald Trump calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a better negotiator than himself is astonishing because Mr. Trump takes pride in being the art of the deal," he said.