The camaraderie between PM Modi and Donald Trump was on display during a joint media interaction
Highlights
- PM Modi, speaking in Hindi, replied to a question about talks with Trump
- "He speaks very good English, we just don't want to talk about it": Trump
- PM Modi and President Trump then chuckled and clasped each others hands
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump held talks on Monday on the sidelines of the G-7 Summit in France. The camaraderie between the two leaders was on display during a joint media interaction before they got down to their discussions.
To a question about talks between the two leaders, PM Modi said in Hindi: "I think you should let us have the discussions first, then we will let you know whatever is needed."
President Trump then cut in: "He actually speaks very good English...he just doesn't want to talk." The two leaders then chuckled and clasped each others' hands. Many in the room burst into laughter.
Earlier, PM Modi asserted, sitting right next to President Trump, that all issues between India and Pakistan were bilateral and "that is why we don't bother any other country" on it.
The US President, who has repeatedly offered to mediate between the two countries, said: "We spoke last night about Kashmir, Prime Minister really feels he has it under control. They speak with Pakistan and I'm sure that they will be able to do something that will be very good."
He added: "I am good friends with both Prime Ministers, I am here but I think the two can manage it themselves."
The two leaders held 40-minute discussions in Biarritz, the French town which is hosting the meeting of the world's most industrialised nations.